AustLit
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See full AustLit entryThis play is based on the life of Colonel William Light, the first surveyor-General of South Australia. When the action takes place, Light has arrived in South Australia to find that his surveying equipment and staff are not up to the huge task before him. Tempers rise in the colony when immigrants arrive to find that the land they purchased has not yet been surveyed. Light’s antagonist, John Hindmarsh, is determined to compromise Light’s career. Amongst the jealousy and anger, Light finds comfort in a young woman named Linda Manners.
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Awake My Love, or William Light - The Founder
by
Max Afford
(1947)
Foreword
The Colony of South Australia was founded on the dream of one man. Edward Gibbon Wakefield, convinced that settlement by convict stock was a mistake, visualised a colony of wealthy English squires and free English laborers. Instead of wide grants, the land was to be bought by the rich. Thrifty laborers, saving their wages, could in turn also purchase lande. Thus colonisation would flourish - the rich bringing a steady supply of capital to the Colony, which would be in turn followed by a stream of industrious labor.
But, like all Utopian dreams, this one failed. Wakefield had considered every factor save the human element of blunder. The main power of the colony was in the hands of a Board of Commissioners in London. It was this body which sent out to the new Colony two men completely different in temperament, in nature, and in ideals, both to highly important appointments. Surveyor-General Colonel William Light sailed for South Australia in May, 1836. Eight months later, John Hindmarsh arrived as Governor of the new Colony.
Light, with two surveying vessels and a handful of men, found his equipment totally inadequate for the enormous task ahead. He had scarcely begun his work when the Commissioners in London, having sold allotments, landed the immigrants in the new Colony. This body of men discovered they had paid for land not even surveyed, since Light could not do the impossible. Then the South Australian company, formed in London for the purpose of buying large tracts of land, found fault with Light’s choice of the capital. In this, they were firmly supported by Hindmarsh, who disliked the surveyor-general and was prepared to obstruct him in every way.
By the beginning of 1837, the new colony was torn with bitterness and rancor that must have appalled Wakefield. Quarrels were frequent; the Colonial Treasurer and the Colonial Secretary fought each other with bare fists in the street! The resident Commissioner was threatened with a public horsewhipping. Meanwhile, the temper of the settlers rose until there was the near-threat of civil war against the Governor! Matters became so dangerous that in 1838, both Colonel Light and Governor Hindmarsh were recalled to England. Light, resigning, stayed in the Colony, to die of consumption a year later. Hindmarsh was replaced, in October, 1838, by Governor George Gawler.
It is against the tempestuous background of these two years that this play is placed. Light’s tragic career, with its uphill fight against jealousy and obstruction is historically correct in every detail. His unflagging faith in the future of the capital of Adelaide, his tender idealism, his bitter rancorous battles with the irascible Hindmarsh, his resignation, the terrible loss of his documents by fire and his pitiful death are factual incidents.
Fictional liberty has been taken with the Manners family and the character of the woman, Linda, whose unswerving affection consoled Light’s hardships and gave him tender comfort in his last dark hours.
Historians may question this dramaturgical licence, but before proceeding with its defence, let us look at the character of the man.
William Light, born 1788, was a son of Francis Light, Governor of Penang. When that gentleman married Martina Rozells, princess daughter of the Rajah of Queda, the latter presented the island of Penang to Britain as a wedding gift to Francis Light. From this strange and colourful background came William, eldest of the five Light children. At the age of six, the boy William was sent to England to be educated. At twelve, he entered the British Navy and during the next ten years, this “son of an Eastern prince” was prominent in Court circles. He was a guest of the Prince Regent, later George Fouth, and a lifelong friend of the Duke of Wellington. Gracious, cultured, artistic and sensitive, Light married Mary Bennet, daughter of the Duke of Richmon and three children were born of the union.
Light’s sudden decision to leave the luxurious life of English society -- to part from his wife and family -- is not easily understood. History remains mute as to the reason, but theories abound. The chest complaint which was to end the Colonel’s life may have been the cause of his sailing for the new -- and sunny – Colony, and if he believed his residence in South Australia but temporary, it explains why Mrs. Light did not accompany him. But another story stirs murkier waters; it suggests that the dark strain in the Colonel’s blood reappeared abruptly in one of the children – a discovery which resulted in an estrangement between husband and wife. One thing is certain – that in the new Colony this proud, artistic, idealistic man was intensely alone.
Records discreetly suggest that Light turned to his housekeeper, Miss Maria Gandy for companionship. So there is actual foundation for the romantic angle of this play, even though the characters of Linda, her mother and her father are purely fictional. Or perhaps semi-fictional, for is it too much to believe that among the wealthier land-owners in the new Colony, there was some such woman as Linda Manners, gentle, artistic and even as the Colonel himself “standing like Ruth among the alien corn”? And what more likely that these two people should be drawn together, first in companionship, then as close friends, and later in a hopeless, tragic, frustrated love?
Colonel William Light remains one of the most colorful and interesting figures in Australian history. Yet a line in a history book, and a bronze effigy are all that remain to perpetuate his name. These – and the city of Adelaide – into which Light build the strength of his own body, and which in turn became his monument and his sepulchre.
Max Afford.
Sydney. 1947.
Characters
COLONEL WILLIAM LIGHT
GOVERNOR HINDMARSH
MRS. ORCHARD
MR. ORCHARD
AMELIA ORCHARD
MRS. MANNERS
MR. MANNERS
LINDA MANNERS
TRAVERS FINNISS
DIXON - MANNER'S HOUSEKEEPER
MARIA - LIGHT'S HOUSEKEEPER
STEVENSON
GILLES
HERBERT
ALGERNON
Awake My Love
Act one
Scene 1: Living room of the Manners home. Evening, September, 1837.
Scene 2: The same. One month later.
Act two
Scene 1: Band of the river Torrens – late afternoon. Six months later.
Scene 2: Interior of the cottage of William Light. Night. One week later.
Act three
Scene 1: Living room of the Manners home, evening. January, 1839.
Scene 2: The same. Some months later.
Act I. Scene 1.
LIVING ROOM of the Manners’ Home, Adelaide, South Australia, September 1837.
A large room in which good taste and comfortable furnishings have to some extent overcome the crude construction. The walls are of wood, covered with rough plaster, but their harshness is softened by the draping of curtains and several good pictures.
There are two entrances to the room, one down right, which leads to the rest of the house, another up left which connects with the front door and main entrance.
In the centre back wall is a fireplace and over this a mantel with red bobble braiding. Over this again is a large mirror, also ornamented with the bobble braid. On either side of the mirror are two candelabra with lighted candles. Between them is an erection of wax fruit, covered by a glass dome.
On either side of the fireplace are miniatures, and framed silhouettes. Beyond these are two large french windows. These have heavy curtains looped back on either side. Outside are green shutters, which, like the windows, open down the centre. These are closed when the play opens.
On the side walls hang portraits of the manners family in circular gilt frames.
Up from the right hand entrance stands a small piano with a red cover on the top. On this stands an oil lamp, lit in the night scenes. In the opposite corner is an old-fashioned work basket of cedar with a small table nearby. Several chairs and a couch, a brass fender and a coal scuttle, and several kangaroo skins on the floor, complete the furnishings. About the whole apartment there is an air of picturesque roughness combined with comfort.
(All stage directions are given from actors’ viewpoint).
When the curtain rises, it is about nine o’clock of a cold spring night. There is a log fire blazing in the fireplace. A sheaf of wattle decorates the tall vase on the table. Outside the spatter of rain is heard. The sound of voices precedes the entrance of three women, who come through the door down right.
Mrs. Charles Orchard enters first, a plump, gossipy little woman in her early fifties. She has a certain faded prettiness marred by a bitter, discontent mouth. Mrs. Orchard is followed by her daughter, Amelia, an over-feminine, fluffy little creature.
Mrs. Henry Manners enters last of all. She is a tall gracious woman nearing sixty, with charm and distinction. She stands just inside the door, smiling as her guests peer round with surprise and delight. Then Mrs. Orchard, gushing, turns to her.
Mrs. Orchard:
“What a lovely room, Mrs. Manners! I declare! Not even the new Government House will compare with this!
Mrs. Manners:
“The credit is entirely due to Mr. Manners …”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Really?”
Mrs. Manners:
“He had the labourers working on this place months before Linda and I arrived. We brought most of the furnishings from home.”
She comes down and gestures to the couch. Mrs. Orchard sits, but Amelia is flitting around, examining each fresh object with little twitters of pleasure
Mrs. Orchard:
“And that lovely dinner! What a shame Mr. Manners had to miss it!”
Mrs. Manners:
“It was to be a small celebration. But contrary winds delayed his return from Kangaroo Island.”
Mrs. Orchard: (Sighing)
“Somehow, nothing ever seems to go right in this horrible place! You know, when Charles was offered the position of manager out here, we were delighted! The South Australian Company … well … it’s got standing, as you might say!”
Mrs. Manners:
“Of course.”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Little did we think we’d rue the day we ever left England! I hadn’t been out here three weeks before –
Amelia!”
(This to her daughter, who, pausing in her explorations, has lifted her dress and is industriously rubbing right shoe against left ankle.)
“How many times have I told you not to do that?”
Amelia: (pouting)
“But mama … I am bitten all over!“
Mrs. Orchard:
“So am I! But I do not make a common spectacle of myself by scratching in public!”
Amelia: (Sullenly)
“The Governor’s wife has them …”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Amelia!”
Amelia:
“So she has, mama! I was sitting behind her a Trinity Church on Sunday! I could see them hopping ---“
Mrs. Orchard: (Outraged)
“That will do, pertness! Oh, if only your father would come away from the table…”
Mrs. Manners: (Smiling)
“Don’t reprimand the child. I’m afraid we’re all suffering.”
Mrs. Orchard:
“It’s disgusting! At home, I would have gone cold with the very thought of such creatures! But here … the whole colony crawls with the pests!”
Mrs. Manners:
“Have you tried paraffin?”
Mrs. Orchard: (Bitterly)
“We’ve tried everything!”
(And now Amelia has discovered the piano)
Amelia:
“Mama! Mama! … Look!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Yes, angel. But come and sit down.”
Amelia crosses and sits on a small hassock near the fireplace. She arranges her frock to form a pretty picture.
Amelia:
“Mama … we had a piano at home …”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Yes.”
Amelia:
“Why not here?”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Your dear Papa considers the instrument to be extravagant in a new colony.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Perhaps Mr. Orchard is right. But Linda would not be happy without her piano.”
Mrs. Orchard:
“I am told your daughter has a great talent for music?”
Mrs. Manners: (Quietly)
“she has a great love for it.”
Amelia:
“But the whole colony talks of Miss Linda’s cleverness! There is that poem she is setting to music .. the poem written by Colonel Light …”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Hush, Amelia!”
Mrs. Manners (Smiling)
“It’s no secret. A few weeks ago the Colonel heard Linda sing at an evening given by Captain Lipson. He asked my daughter if she would care to compose a melody for certain verses he had written.”
Amelia:
“Where is Miss Linda?”
Mrs. Manners:
“When Mrs. Hindmarsh was called away so suddenly, I promised her a pattern. Linda is looking for it.”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Don’t tell me Mary Hindmarsh means to appear in another new dress!”
Mrs. Manners:
“Oh, no! Mrs. Hindmarsh wants to make some garments for the blacks outside the settlement.”
(Amelia gives a lady-like shudder)Amelia:
“Nasty naked savages … living in those dirty wurlies with their dogs! No wonder we scratch all day and night!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Yes, indeed! I can see nothing picturesque in them!”
Mrs. Manners: (Gently)
“Who can?”
Amelia: (Promptly)
“Colonel Light! Only yesterday, he was down at the river bank with his sketching pad!”
Mrs. Orchard: (With a swift glance around)
“It would seem that the Colonel is rather versatile. Surveyor-General, an artist with the brush and now … a poet!”
Amelia:
“And so handsome! That dark, curling hair greying at the temples … so distinguished! And what a leg the man has!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Amelia!”
Amelia:
“Mama! Darling mama! Have I said anything … unmaidenly?”
Mrs. Orchard:
“You have overwhelmed your mama with shame! Such fervent declarations – in public – from a child of your age!
Mrs. Manners covers the situation with ready tact. She says, half jokingly
Mrs. Manners:
“It is as well that the Colonel is happily married!"
(Mrs. Orchard gives that furtive glance right and left, the preliminary to a confidence)
Mrs. Orchard:
“Did you say … “happily” married?”Mrs. Manners:
“Surely he is?”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Not if rumours are true, my dear! The Colonel has a wife and three children in London. Yes … he sails out here alone! Why?
Mrs. Manners:
“It may not have been convenient for Mrs. Light to leave London.”Mrs. Orchard:
“In this heathen Colony, a wife’s place is by her husband’s side! But there it is! What is good enough for us doesn’t suit the daughter of the Duke of Richmond! If I can put up with hardships, why can’t she?”
Amelia: (Innocently)“Because she’s a lady, mama!”
The right hand door opens and two men enter. Charles Orchard comes first, a loud-mouthed pompous man of middle age. His companion is younger, in his early thirties. Travers Finniss is a quietly spoken man, with an air of suppressed energy and vitality
Mr. Orchard: (Speaking as he enters)
“… and I say the fellow’s made a complete mess of everything! And nothing you say will convince me otherwise.”
(He stops, nods to the women and comes down)
Orchard:
“We’re talking about this man Light!”
Finniss:“I think your husband’s rather hard on the Colonel, Mrs. Orchard.”
Orchard:
“Piffle! I’m giving you facts man! Here we have a new colony, swarming with settlers waiting to claim the land they’ve bought … and Light hasn’t even completed his surveys!”
Finniss:
“Because the Commissioners in London didn’t give him time!”
Orchard:“That’s his story!”
Finnis:
“And it’s true! The Colonel had scarcely set foot in the colony before the first boat-load of settlers arrived!”
Orchard:
“He’s a muddler! A confirmed muddler”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Charles!”
(Orchard turns to her)
Orchard:
“Would anyone by an incompetent bungler put the capital city six miles from the seacoast?”
Finniss: (Warmly)
“That’s only your opinion, Sir! Personally, I don’t know …”
(Orchard strides to him and taps him on the chest)
Orchard:
“Then let me tell you, sir, I do know! Didn’t my own company lose hundreds of pounds when our stores were ruined, because they were landed so far from the capital? Farming land! That’s what this should be!”
Finniss:
“I agree with Light that this is the only possible place for the capital!”
Orchard:
“And what about Port Lincoln?”
Finniss:
“Completely unsuitable!”
Orchard:
“Well, young,man, I’ll tell you something! I’m recommending that my company buy no more acres on this present site! That’s how confident I am that the capital will be moved!”
Mrs. Manners:
“But surely Governor Hindmarsh would never do that?”
Orchard:“He’ll do it quick enough!”
Mrs. Manners:
“But all these settlers had bought their land before they left England! If the capital is moved, it means ruin for them!”
Orchard:
“Then they can thank your precious Colonel Light for their predicament!”
Finniss:“What rot you talk!”
Orchard: (Affronted)
"I beg your pardon!"
(Finniss turns to Mrs. Manners, says quietly)
Finniss:
“You need have no fear that the capital will be moved. The Colonel means to stand by his decision. And I agree with him!”
Orchard:
“You would! You’re Light’s friend!”
Finniss:
“And proud of it!”Orchard: (Ugly)
“You’d better be, my lad! It’s as much as your billet’s worth!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Oh, Charles ---“
Orchard:
“There’s far too much favoritism here! Light’s nose has been out of joint ever since he couldn’t name this new capital Wellington – after his friend the Duke!”
Finniss:“It’s Hindmarsh who annoys the Colonel! Agitating to have the capital moved to Encounter Bay ---“
Orchard:
“Where it should be!”
Finniss:
“Nonsense! Light considers the seacoast too dangerous --- too exposed!”
Orchard: (Hotly)
“He considers it! Why the fellow didn’t even trouble to examine the location closely! Just came here and dumped the capital in the worst possible spot!”
Finniss: (Coldly)“Perhaps, sir – in the light of your great knowledge, you might care to take over the appointment of Surveyor-General yourself?”
Orchard:“I couldn’t possibly make a damn worse mess of it!”
Mrs. Orchard:“Charles --- !”
Orchard: (Rounding on her)
“And don’t keep squeaking “Charles”!”
Linda Manners, enters through the left hand door. She has her mother’s grace and dignity – a girl in her late twenties. She has a rather pale oval face with large dark eyes and a well-formed mouth. But the full red lips might be almost sensuous in features less finely chiselled. Into the brooding strife of the room, she brings something very calm, distant and rather aloof. She smiles, and it has the effect of lighting her face with an almost youthful radiance.
Linda:
“Forgive me being so long ---“
Mrs. Manners:“You found the pattern, Linda?”
Linda:“Yes. And Mrs. Hindmarsh sent her apologies again. She has no idea yet why the Governor should send for her.”
Mrs. Orchard: (Darkly)
“I suppose it’s more trouble”
Mrs. Manners:
“Is it still raining?”
Linda:“Not at the moment. But I’m afraid we have a wild night ahead.”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Charles dear, do you think we should go while it’s still clear … ?”
(She turns to her hostess)
“Would you mind? It is getting late and the roads are in such terrible condition.”
Amelia:
“I lost a shoe in King William Street! If it had not been for Papa’s strong arm, I would have sank almost to --- to ---“
(Her words are lost in a wide yawn. She drops her head and places to fingers to her mouth)
“Oh dear --- the heat of the fire has made me so drowsy ---“
Orchard:
“Past your bedtime, young lady!”
Finniss:
“If we could be excused, I think we had all better go. If this rain continues, the river will be over the stepping stones!”Mrs. Manners:
“I only trust you get home without a drenching ---“
The ladies have risen. Mrs. Manners takes the candelabra from the mantelpiece.
Finniss:
“Goodnight, Miss Linda.”
The others make their farewells, which Linda acknowledges with a smile. Mrs. Manners ushers them toward the left hand door
Mrs. Orchard:
“Thank you for a most enjoyable evening, Mrs. Manners. We are only sorry we could not hear your daughter sing to us ---“
Mrs. Manners: (As they exit)
“You must come again soon. When Mr. Manners is here ---“
They exit left hand door. The room is now lit only by the gentle radiance of the candelabra on the piano. Linda stands for a moment, then crossing to the window, pulls back the curtain and looks out into the night. Returning, she goes to the piano and picks up a sheet of manuscript music from the top.
She runs her eyes over the notes, smiling slightly. Then, almost on a sudden impulse, she sits at the piano and propping up the music before her, runs her fingers over the keys. The quaint, sad little melody sounds through the silent room.
Mrs. Manners returns through right door. She stands just inside, listening. Presently, Linda sees her and stops.
Mrs. Manners:
“Go on playing.”
Linda continues. Then as she finishes, she looks up
Linda:
“You like it, Mama?”
Mrs. Manners:
“I do. Who is the composer, Linda?”
(Linda rises and smiles)Linda:
“It’s my music for the Colonel’s poem.”
Mrs. Manners: (Pleased)
“Why, Linda ---“
Linda:
“I can take little credit. The music was already there --- penned into the words ---“
(She places the music on the piano and turning, crosses to the fire, spreading her hands to the warmth)
“Mama. ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“Yes?”
Linda:
“How long have we been in the Colony?”
Mrs. Manners:“Almost three months.”
Linda:
“Are you ever --- sorry we left England?”
Mrs. Manners:“Isn’t it a little early to ask that question? Perhaps in twelve months ---“
Linda: (Turning)
“Would twelve months change the Orchard family? Would twelve years?”
Mrs. Manners: (Gently)“You’re very lonely, aren’t you, child?”
Linda:“Not lonely, mama. But --- lost, I think. So many faces --- so few friendly. So much struggle --- and so little understanding. Or perhaps it is my fault?”
Mrs. Manners:“I think it is ours. We should never have brought you out here.”
Linda: (Smiling)
“I refused to stay behind! Back there it seemed all so strange and magical – a garden of Hesperides beyond the far horizon. I think I almost expected the golden apples ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“Linda ---“
Linda:
“You see, Mama --- deep down, I suspect I’m quite as romantic as little Amelia ---“
A tap sounds at the right hand door. The two women turn as it opens to admit the housekeeper. She looks at Mrs. Manners
Dixon:
“If you please, ma’am, the Colonel would like to speak to you.”
Linda: (Surprised)“Colonel Light?”
Mrs. Manners:“Ask him to come in, Dixon.”
The housekeeper exits. A moment later Colonel William Light enters. He is tall and slim and in his mid-forties, though his vigour and charm give him the appearance of a much younger man. His face is interesting; there is intellect in the broad brow, sensitivity in the mobile mouth, but the nose and chin are those of a man ready to fight to the last for his ideals. His manners, his speech, his bearing all reflect his gentle birth.
He stands just inside the door for a moment, smiling at the two women.
Light:
“My apologies for this late visit ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“Come inside, Colonel ---“
(Light comes down, moving with a slight limp.)
Light:
“I would not have troubled you – but I understood Mr. Finniss was dining here tonight.”
Linda:
“You have missed him by a few minutes.”
Light:
“Then he must have crossed the river by the stepping stones.”
Mrs. Manners:
“If the matter is urgent, Dixon can go after him ---“
Light: (Quickly)
“No, no --- It is no night to send anyone on an errand! The streets are inches deep in water. But I noticed some disturbance outside the Governor’s house ---“
(Mrs. Manners and Linda exchange a quick glance. Light sees this)“You knew of it?”
Linda:
“We suspected something. Mary Hindmarsh was dining here. She would have stayed, but her husband sent his groom to bring her away ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“I hope it’s not more trouble! There’s talk of civil war ---“
(And now Linda cries out with sudden bitterness)
Linda:
“A fine end to Mr. Wakefield’s brave, brave plans! This was to be a model colony, with no taint of convict labour! Every man free and happy, with holdings paid out of his own pocket!”Light: (Grimly)
“Would you prefer slave labour? The scum of Portsmouth’s rotting hulks --- chained in our streets like wild beasts!”
Linda: (Passionately)“Yes --- yes! Rather than bloodshed --- yes!”
Light: (Gently)“There will be no rebellion here, Miss Linda. We have no hot-headed rum corps as opposed the man Bligh in New South Wales! This is a conflict between two men, Hindmarsh and myself and we shall fight ---“
(Something chokes suddenly in his throat. He is racked by a sudden fit of coughing that brings his handkerchief to his lips. He turns away, struggling to control the spasm. As it passes, he turns and looks rather shame-facedly at the two women)
“Forgive me ---“
Linda: (Anxious)
“Colonel ---“
Light:
“A mere passing indisposition. I must be on my way ---“
Linda:
“That cough grows no better, Colonel.”
Light:
“It’s stubborn ---“
Linda:
“Nor will you help it by going out into the storm!”
Light:
“Dr. Woodforde tells me a few Australian summers will cure it completely.”
Linda:
“Shall I give you my prescription?”
Light: (Smiling)“If you wish.”
Linda:
“A glass of wine and a warm by this fire!”
Light:
“No, no --- the hour is late! I could not dream of putting you to such trouble!”
Mrs. Manners:“It’s no trouble. I’ll see to it myself.”
She exits down right. Linda goes to the fire and pokes at the coals. She turns as Light limps across to the fire
Linda:
“Your wound troubles you?”
Light:”Light my chest, that Corunna bullet hole will never accustom itself to these wintry conditions!”
(He looks around the room, sees the open piano.)“Did you play for your guests tonight?”
Linda:
“No. I was strumming when you came in.”
Light walks across to the piano and sees the manuscript. He turns, delighted
Light:
“This is the melody for my verse!”
Linda:
“I finished it this afternoon.”
Light:
“How splendid!”
(He takes up the manuscript and looks at it)
““Melody by Seiglinda Manners …” Is that your full name … Seiglinda?”
Linda:“Yes.”
Light:
“And I have to know you three months to discover this!”
Linda: (Smiling)
“Few people know it at all. It was Mama’s choice. But Papa considered it too much of a mouthful. He shortened it to Linda.”
Light:
“But it’s so right for you!”
Linda:
“Seiglinda?”
Light: (Softly)
“Seiglinda --- (He lingers on the syllables) It reminds me of some still, quiet pool – a deep pool with the surface tranquil and calm under the evening shadows. Yet gleaming and rippling with a million facets of silver when the sun strikes it ---“
There is a little silence. Linda says
Linda:
“Would you like to hear the melody?”
Light:“Very much.”
She stretches out her hand for the manuscript, but Light, his eyes on her face, does not seem to notice it. Linda smiles
Linda:
“May I have the music?”
Light:
“Your pardon!”
He hands her the manuscript. Linda moves to the piano while Light lowers himself into the chair near the fire, his eyes never leaving her.
Linda sits, places the music in position and runs her fingers over the keys. She has a charming voice, untrained, but sweet and full
Linda:
“I saw you on a blue Spring day
At dawn.
The little birds a-flutter at your
Feet.
You smiled; and then the blue was turned
To gold ---
Because you smiled on me – that sweet
Spring morn.
“I met you when the Autumn tints were
Red ---
And silvered was your hair and grave
Your eyes.
But when you smiled, the blue of Spring
Was nigh ---
And we were young again – and so in love”
(The piano notes die away. The silence is broken by Linda who turns)
“You like it?”
(Light rises slowly to his feet)Light:
“You gave my poor lines a beauty undreamt of when I penned them!”
The deep sincerity of his tone holds Linda for a moment. Then she speaks quickly
Linda:
“I have made two copies ---“
(She starts to move to the left hand door, when Lights quiet voice stops her)
Light:
“Miss Linda --- please do not go.”
Linda:
“But your song ---“
Light:
“First I must tell you something. I did not come here tonight to meet Mr. Finniss –“
Linda:
“No?”
Light:“I delayed my visit purposefully, hoping that your guests would have gone ---“
Linda:
“But why?---“
Light:“I think I hoped for something like this --- to talk with you --- not among groups of people, but alone like this. But I never thought to hear you sing ---“
Linda: (Gently)
“You have heard me sing before.”
Light:
“Yes --- at Captain Lipson’s house ---“
Linda:
“I had hoped you might forget that! I still blush when I think how badly I played ---“
Light:
“It was the wretched piano!”
Linda:
“In this climate, it’s almost impossible to keep an instrument in tune ---“
(Light speaks with sudden bitterness)
Light:
“Is anything in tune here? (Then he smiles) Forgive me! I should not have said that!”
Linda:
“Why not? You have no easy task in this Colony!”
Light:
“And to-day has been particularly irksome! I found a hundred petty irritations that left me worried --- depressed! Times like this, I find walking the best medicine!”
Linda:
“In the rain?”
Light:“Anything was better than sitting alone! I wanted to get away --- to leave behind all the treachery --- the false promises! That was why I chose to walk in the bush. But to-night, even the bush seemed desolate, weeping, darkly, ominous. In all the Colony, there seemed no place of sanctuary! But now --- I know I was wrong ---“
Linda:
“You have found it?”
Light:
“Yes! In this room! Listening to your song, I knew something of the healing peace that comes in great Cathedrals --- (He smiles) Tonight you have done me a very great service, Linda.”Linda: (Quietly)
“You are welcome here whenever you please.”
Light:
“Thank you. And now ---“
(He breaks as Mrs. Manners enters left.)
Mrs. Manners:
“Mr. Finniss is here, Colonel.”
Light:“Finniss?”
Mrs. Manners:“He wishes to speak with your urgently ---“
Light:
“Ask him to wait. I am just going.
Linda:
“No, no. Mama --- ask him in.”
Light:
“But ---“
Linda:
“You have not yet had your wine. And I must get your music ---“
She crosses to the door left, and exits with her mother. Light stands irresolute, his lean face shadowed, almost as though he has a premonition of what is to come. Travers Finniss enters left.
Finniss:
“Colonel ---“
Light:
“Yes, Travers?”
Finniss:“Houghton told me you were here. It’s a bad business, Will! The settlers are demonstrating outside the Governor’s house!”
Light:
“Why?”
Finniss:“Hindmarsh believes he has discovered a new location for the capital!”
Light:“Again?”
Finniss:“It’s no mere talk this time! News has come of a natural harbour near the Murray mouth at Encounter bay. Hindmarsh has prepared a request for Strangways and Hutchinson to head a land party to examine the site! And Captain Crozier is to survey the seacoast!”
Light:
“Hindmarsh must be mad!”
Finniss:
“He cares nothing for the ruin of the settlers here! Small wonder they are angry! You must do something, Will!”
Light:
“In good time.”
Finniss:“But we must act now!”
Light:
“How?”
Finniss:“You have the settlers of the Colony behind you. These men have put every penny they own into the land! They will prevent the Governor from changing the capital!”
Light:
“By insurrection?”
Finniss:
“Yes! All they lack is a leader! If you were to but say the word ---“(Light goes to Finniss and puts his hand on his shoulder – says quietly)
Light:
“No, my friend. We have been sent out here to build up a new colony, not to have it laid waste with bloodshed. The troubles of the capital, black as they are, have yet fallen short of civil war.”
Finniss:
“The powder is very dry ---“
Light:“Mine will not be the hand to touch the spark! Nor yours, Finniss! We are builders – not destroyers!”
Finniss:
“But Hindmarsh ---“
Light:
“I will deal with Governor Hindmarsh! Now --- return to your lodgings – sleep well – wake refreshed. That is what I intend to do!”
(Finniss looks at him for a long moment, then shrugs his shoulders)
Finniss:
“I thought it only right to warn you, Colonel ---“
Light:
“I understand”
Finniss goes to left hand door. There he turns. He says very quietly
Finniss:
“Take care, Will. There are people in this Colony who lack your tolerance. I feel we tread on very dangerous ground ---“
He remains looking at Light as ---
THE CURTAIN FALLS
Act one --- Scene two
THE SAME: ONE MONTH LATER.
The room is similar to the setting of the previous scene, but the curtains are looped back, and the green shutters open to admit the bright noonday sun. In one window hangs a cage containing a Rosella parrot. The centre of the room has been cleared and a massive table stands there. Six chairs have been placed around it – two at either side, one at each end. There are ink-pots, pens and papers on the table. The time is shortly before noon.
When the curtain rises, Henry Manners is discovered putting papers at the head of the table. The Advocate-General of South Australia is a tall, heavily-built, rather commanding man nearing sixty. Yet there is nothing overbearing or pompous in his manner. He is a just, kindly man, with a respect for authority. If Henry Manners has a fault, it is his trace of snobbishness, for here is an individual proud of his position in the Colony, a man who values above all things his reputation and the social standing of his family.
Mrs. Manners enters down right. There is about her expression and movements a certain air of excitement mingled with apprehension.
Mrs. Manners:
“Henry dear ---“
Manners:
“Yes?”
Mrs. Manners:“I am certain the clock in the kitchen is slow!”
(Very deliberately, Manners takes from his pocket a large, turnip faced watch and consults it)
Manners:
“Ten minutes to the noon hour!”
Mrs. Manners:
“Then it is right!”
Manners:“I trust so, my dear. If not, I must speak to Dixon about it.”
Mrs. Manners:
“No, no --- it is just that the time seems to crawl so slowly --- How are the arrangements?”
Manners:
“I have decided that Gilles will sit here ---“
(He indicates the chairs as he speaks)
“Orchard opposite him. Stevenson I’ve placed at the Governor’s right hand. Now --- how is the wine?”
Mrs. Manners:
“I am having it chilled in the water-cooler.”Manners:
“It must be just the right temperature, Rose. Hindmarsh has been known to fling tepid wine across the room!”
Mrs. Manners does not answer for a moment. She is straightening a cushion, then ---
Mrs. Manners:
“Henry ---“
Manners:
“Yes, my dear?”
Mrs. Manners:“Don’t you think it’s rather a mistake to hold this meeting here?”
Manners:“Now, Rose, we have been all over that subject!”
Mrs. Manners:
“But ---“
Manners: (Firmly)
“It is the home of the Advocate-General of South Australia, Rose! If the Governor of the Colony chooses to convene a meeting here, it amounts to an order!”
Mrs. Manners:“I suppose so.”
Manners:
“I prefer the subject closed!”
(He takes out his watch again, consults it).“The meeting should be concluded within half an hour. That will give us time for a stroll in the garden. Luncheon must be served at one o’clock.””
Mrs. Manners:“Yes, Henry.”
Manners:
“After the meal we will return here. While we are resting, Linda may care to sing for us.”
Mrs. Manners:
“No, Henry ---“
(As her husband looks up in surprise)
“Linda won’t be here.”
Manners:
“And why not?”
Mrs. Manners:“She has gone to lunch with the Peters.”
Manners:
“And you let her go?”
Mrs. Manners:
“Come, Henry dear. Linda is no longer a child!”
Manners:
“You realise that this is merely a stupid excuse? Because the girl is opposed to this scheme to move the capital?”
Mrs. Manners:“She told me so.”
Manners:“Told you?”
Mrs. Manners:
“Linda said she could not stand by and see such injustice done to an old friend.”
Manners:
“Close that door ---“
(Mrs. Manners, a trifle surprised at the request, crosses and closes the right hand door. When she returns, Manners says quietly)
“Ever since I returned from Kangaroo Island I have meant to speak to you on this matter, Rose. I am not sure I approve of this close friendship. How long has it been going on?”
Mrs. Manners:“Six months. Perhaps longer. I’ve given it no thought.”
Manners:
“Why not?”
Mrs. Manners:“The Colonel is an honourable man ---“
Manners:
“He also happens to be married!”
Mrs. Manners:
“But, Henry ---“
Manners:
“Wait! There are stories circulating in this Colony – gossip concerning Light and our daughter – which I Have thought it better to ignore. But I can do this no longer. Now the place is buzzing with some sly story about a musical composition ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“But surely that was harmless enough?”
Manners:“It is not the fact, Rose. It is what people make of it! In our position we cannot afford such gossip.”
Mrs. Manners:
“But this tittle-tattle ---“
Manners: (Quietly)
“Tittle-tattle has dragged more than one good name into the mud, Rose! In a Colony of this size, where everyone’s movements are known, we cannot afford to be less than above suspicion!”
Mrs. Manners:
“How are you going to stop it, Henry?”
Manners:
“Linda must see the Colonel only at this house! Surely that is not asking too much? It makes no bar to their friendship.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Then you will speak to Linda?”
Manners:
“Tonight! I should have brought up this matter before, but business ---“
(A tap on the door interrupts him. He calls)
“Come in!”
The right hand door opens. Mrs. Dixon, the Manners’ housekeeper, enters right
Dixon:
“If you please, sir – Mr. Orchard and Mr. Stevenson have arrived.”
Manners:
“Have the gentlemen come in.”
(As the housekeeper goes, he turns to his wife)
“Now, I’m sure you have much to do ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“Indeed, yes. I trust everything will be to your liking, Henry.”
She goes upstage and exits left. Manners arranges an ink-pot here, a paper there
Charles Orchard enters with George Stevenson. The Governor’s secretary and first editor of the South Australian Register is a burly, ruthless man. He carried in one hand a roll of paper
Orchard:
“So we’re the first?”
Manners:“Yes. Is that the document, Stevenson?”
Stevenson:
“This is it!”
He hands the document to Manners, who unrolls it and runs his eyes over the lettering. Orchard, meanwhile, essays one of his witticisms
Orchard:
“Nice Christmas present for our clever surveyor-general! Hindmarsh should have entwined a holly wreath through it – and added the usual festive greetings!”
Stevenson: (cold – unamused)
“This is serious business, Orchard!”
Manners moves to the head of the table and places the document there. Speaks rather worriedly
Manners:
“Serious, indeed, gentlemen. How do you think Light will take this?”
Stevenson:
“What can the man do? An official order from the Governor remains an official order!”
Manners:“Even when it carries the intention of shifting the capital?”
Stevenson looks him straight in the face. He replies coldly, firmly
Stevenson:
“Even when it carries the intention of shifting the capital!”
There is a moment of small tension. It is broken by a tap on the door. The housekeeper enters, announces
Dixon:
“Mr. Osmond Gilles.”
Osmond Gilles enters. The Colonial Treasurer is a lean, quiet man. He nods as he enters
Gilles:
“How d’you do --- how d’you do. Everything in order?”
Stevenson:
“Even to the document!”
He nods to the head of the table. Gilles crosses and looks at the document. He nods gravely
Manners:
“We might as well sit down.
He gestures the men to their seats. As they sit --
Gilles:
“I wish Jeffcott could have been here. He’d have been a tower of strength!”
Stevenson:
“The Judge had to go to Encounter Bay with Captain Blenkinsop.”Orchard: (Sourly)
“Don’t mention that man’s name to me! He’s responsible for all the fuss!”
Manners:“Wasn’t there a shooting?”
Orchard:“Yes.”
Manners:
“I heard rumours of trouble while I was away on the island ---“
Orchard:
“Then I’ll tell you what happened! You know that my company has fisheries at Encounter Bay ---“
Manners:
“Yes --- Stephens is in charge.”
Orchard:
“Was in charge, you mean! There was some trouble with the labourers. Blenkinsop says that Stephens lost his head and shot at them. Stephens, arrested on a capital charge, denies it!”
Manners:
“And Jeffcott?”
Orchard:“My company employed the judge to go down to Encounter Bay with Blenkinsop and get the truth!”
Gilles: (Shaking his head)“I wish he oculd have put off the journey until later!”
Stevenson:
“Why?”
Gilles:“In a sticky business like this, it’s impossible to have too much backing!’
Stevenson: (Coldly)
“You have the Governor’s approval! Isn’t that enough?”
Orchard:
“I see what Gilles means. Light may have all kinds of tricks up his sleeve.”
Stevenson:
“No. There is only one way Light can sidestep this order.”
Gilles:
“How?”
Stevenson:“By a direct refusal to obey!”
Orchard:
“He’d never dare! That’s outright mutiny!”Manners: (Quietly)
“We cannot be too sure, gentlemen. Remember the Colonel takes his orders from the Commissioners in London.”
Stevenson: (Icily)
“I would not advise you to remind Hindmarsh of that fact!”
There is an awkward silence in which the worried tension grows. Manners looks at his watch again. Orchard, on tenterhooks, rises and walks across to the window.
Orchard:
“He may not show up …”
Gilles:
“That would not surprise me in the least! Light has declared that, regarding the choice of the capital location, no power on earth can alter his decision!”
(Stevenson taps document)
Stevenson:
“We’ll see what this does!”
(Orchard turns from the window)
Orchard:
“If you ask me, it’s more than time someone put this damned upstart in his place! Coming here with his high-and-mighty airs! Just because he’s been a guest at the Royal Court!”
Stevenson:
“It takes no great wit to crawl into Royal favour these days!”
Gilles: (Sharply)
“Hindmarsh couldn’t do it! And he tried for years!”
(Orchard gives a sudden snigger)
Orchard:
“Our Governor in a court ball room! Talk about a bull in a china shop!”
There is a tap on the door. It opens to admit the housekeeper again. She announces
Dixon:
“His Excellency, the Governor!”
The four men rise to their feet. Captain John Hindmarsh enters. Stocky, red-faced, with surly lines around his mouth which tell of an ugly temper when roused, with an arrogant beak of a nose betraying his domineering nature, Hindmarsh looks just what he is: a bluff, dictatorial old sea-dog, better fitted for the quarter deck than the Governor’s chair.
He is in full official uniform and he stands glaring around the room, his glass eye fixed, acknowledging the greetings with a grunt
Hindmarsh:
“Where’s Light?”
Stevenson:
“He should arrive at any moment now, sir.”Hindmarsh:
“So …! The governor of South Australia must await an officer’s pleasure!” (To Stevenson) “You’ve made out that order?”
(Stevenson gestures to paper at head of table)
Stevenson:
“Just as you ordered, sir.”
Hindmarsh crosses the room to head of table and sitting, takes up the document and runs his eye over it. The other men sit and eye their superior cautiously. It is Orchard, fawning, who breaks the silence.
Orchard:
“Sir … we were saying that it’s a pity Judge Jeffcott could not be present ---“
(Hindmarsh slowly raises his little eyes from the document and fixed them on the unfortunate Orchard)
Hindmarsh:
“What the devil do you mean, sir?”
Orchard:“Only --- er --- we --- we think he should be here ---“
Hindmarsh: (With terrifying quietness)
“And why, pray? I can do my own business in my own way! Do you imagine Jeffcott has to hold my hand in everything I do?” (His voice rising) “I’m the Governor of South Australia – Not Jeffcott!”
Orchard: (Cringing)
“Naturally, but ---“
(Hindmarsh jumps to his feet, glaring at Orchard)
Hindmarsh:
“But – but … You think I’m incompetent, don’t you? You believe I daren’t make a single move without Jeffcott’s advice? Well --- I can guide this Colony without the advice of any damned outsider!”
(He thumps the table)“Understand that! All of you!”
During this undignified harangue, Light has entered with the housekeeper. He waves her aside and as she exits hurriedly, he stands listening to the Governor’s bull-roarings with an expression of mingled amusement and distaste. Light, like Hindmarsh, is in full uniform.
And now Hindmarsh has paused. As he sits, glaring around the table, Light gives a polite cough. The Governor and the men swing around. Hindmarsh glares at Light for a long moment, then speaks with repressed savage geniality
Hindmarsh:
“Well --- Sir?”
(Light crosses to the table)Light:
“You sent for me, Sir?”
Hindmarsh:“I did! And the appointment was for twelve noon!”
Light: (Calmly)
“It has just this minute struck the hour.”
(Hindmarsh glares at him, then defeated, waves to a chair)
Hindmarsh:
“Sit down, man – sit down!”
Light:
“Thank you. I prefer to stand ---“
Hindmarsh:
“I said --- sit down!”
(Light hesitates for a moment, then shrugs elegantly and drops into the vacant chair at the foot of the table.)
“And now to business! You know why you’ve been summoned here?”
Light: (Casually)“I fear ‘tis something to my detriment ---“
(His eyes flick over the table)
“I notice the opposition out in almost full force. I can only wonder why you omitted Judge Jeffcott.”
Orchard: (Stiffly)
“The judge has business at Encounter Bay ---“
Light:
“Oh, yes --- I remember. Your company manager has been exposed for the lying trickster that he is ---“
Orchard:
“Look here ---“
Light: (Smiling)
“The unfortunate Stephens had not sufficient intelligence to cover his crooked dealings in the manner of the other Colony officials!”
Orchard: (Hotly)
“Sir ---!”
Light:
“Does the cap fit so well, Orchard?”
(Orchard wheels on the Governor)Orchard:
“Your Excellency ---“
(But Hindmarsh waves an impatient hand)
Hindmarsh:
“Enough of that! Argue at your leisure!”(He draws a deep breath and looks up)
“Colonel Light ---“
Light:
“Sir.”
Hindmarsh:
“I have called you here because of the report made by Captain Crozier and Mr. Strangways on the new harbour discovered at the Murray mouth ---“
Light:
“I take it the report was favourable?”
Hindmarsh: (Heavily)
“Most --- favourable!”
Light:
“In spite of the fact that when Sturt examined the Murray mouth, the condemned it --- because it was exposed to the full force of the southerly gales? Because as a general rule, rivers which terminate in broad shallow lakes, have no navigable channels to the sea?”
Stevenson: (Thinly)
“May I remind you, Colonel --- We are discussing the Crozier-Strangways report! Not that of Captain Sturt!”
Hindmarsh:“You have it there! Read it to him!”
Stevenson picks up another document from the table. He reads carefully, in his thin, dry tone, pausing from time to time to raise his eyes to Light’s face
Stevenson:
“Crozier speaks for the new harbour at Encounter Bay as being a really fine port --- with good lands and fresh water --- with an anchorage that could be made safe and navigable.”
Light:
“No!”
Stevenson:“He also states that the mouth of the Murray could be navigated by small draught ships.”
He lays down the document. As he raises his eyes, Light speaks with gentle irony.
Light:
“Is that all?”
(Hindmarsh, stung by the veiled contempt in his voice, leaps to his feet)Hindmarsh:
“Isn’t it enough, sir? Doesn’t it make it plain how you’ve blundered – placing the capital where it is now – miles from the sea coast! Here we have a splendid site --- on the banks of a safe and navigable harbour ---“
Light:“No, sir!”
Hindmarsh:
“What do you mean?”
Light:“Your informants err greatly when they call that harbour safe and navigable! I tell you, sir --- Encounter bay is a veritable death-trap!”
Hindmarsh:
“Words! Mere empty words!”
Light jumps to his feet. His gentle, ironic mood falls like a cloak. There is tension in his attitude – fire in his voice
Light:
“Unfortunately, sir --- I can produce something more tragically tangible than mere empty words! I can produce evidence of smashed and battered vessels – drowned men – hundreds of thousands of pounds of good money – washed deep into the sands of your safe and navigable harbour! I can show you wrecks like the barque South Australian --- driven ashore by the fury of the storm --- smashed beyond repair! Can you waive tragedies like that away with a gesture?”
Hindmarsh: (Shrugging)“Such accidents can be helped! We shall make ample provision for the protection of vessels once the new capital is started on its way!”
Light:
“Sir --- !”
Hindmarsh:“Well?”
Light:“You speak as though the removal of the present capital has already been decided upon?”
Hindmarsh: (Deliberately)“It has! I have decided it shall be moved!”
Light:
“Sir --- you cannot ---“Hindmarsh: (Snapping)
“I can do as I please! I’m recommending to the Secretary of State the removal of the present capital – and announcing my intention of doing this immediately!”
Light stares at the Governor, his face pale and tight. He says very quietly
Light:
“In which case, sir – why is my presence here so necessary?”
Hindmarsh:“Because I have an official order for you!”
With eyes still on Light’s face, he reaches out a hand. Stevenson picks up the document he brought with him and puts it into the Governor’s hand. Without moving his eyes, Hindmarsh passes it across the table. It is placed in front of Light, who ignores it
Hindmarsh:
“That document, Colonel, demands that you drop your present survey work here. And that you proceed to Encounter Bay, there to survey the site for the new capital!”
Light: (Very quietly)
“I am to take this as an official order from the Governor?”
Hindmarsh:
“You are! I am waiting for your answer!”
Light:
“I definitely and absolutely refuse!”
There are little alarmed ejaculations from the men at the table. Hindmarsh, purple in the face, stares at Light as though unable to believe his ears
Hindmarsh:
“You --- what?”
Light rises in his chair. He grips the table and facing the Governor, speaks very quietly, but with a repressed passion of sincerity that trembles the very words on his lips
Light:
“I must remind you, sir, that the South Australian Commissioners gave me complete power to select the capital of this Colony! “Not merely in a good position, but in the best position!” Those were my orders --- word for word! And I have carried out those orders to the letter! I have chosen the only possible location where the capital can grow and expand! I am not thinking of this year or next year or even a decade hence! I am thinking of a hundred years from now when this barren site will be a wide-spread city, stretching and lapping to the very edge of this sea coast you now condemn! I am thinking of the generations unborn who will load me with the full responsibility for this present site!”
Hindmarsh:
“A pretty speech, Colonel! But I have given you an order! As Governor of this Colony, I demand that you carry it out!”Light:
“There are somethings more awe inspiring than the commands of a Governor! One of these is the trust of the people!”
Hindmarsh:“People?”
Light:
“Yes --- the land-holders in this Colony, who have justified their faith in my choice by spending thousands of pounds on their holdings! They are confident in the future of this capital! The removal of the city site and this late hour will mean ruin and bankruptcy for these good folk ---“Hindmarsh:
“Nonsense ---“
Light:
“Will you think it nonsense, sir, if they rise up against you and show --- perhaps by bloodshed --- what I am trying to proclaim in peace?”
Hindmarsh: (Rising temper)“You dare threaten me?”
Light:“Threaten you? No, sir! I am trying to protect you ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Protect me?”
Light:
“From your own jealous and selfish whims! From the consequences of your own obstinacy!”
(Hindmarsh jumps to his feet, almost apoplectic with rage)
Hindmarsh:
“Do you realise whom you’re addressing? I happened to be Governor of this bloody Colony!”
Light:“One would never suspect it by your language, Sir!”
Stevenson:“You must not talk to his Excellency, like that!”
Light:
“Then let his Excellency address me in a manner befitting his position!”
(Hindmarsh, having recovered his breath, thumps the table in his anger)
Hindmarsh:
“I --- I --- I’ll clap you in irons! I’ll order you flogged! How dare you flout my authority --- you impudent --- hopping --- landlubber!”
Light reddens at this jibe at his infirmity. He stiffens with anger; his face sets; he bows to the assembly
Light:
“I wish you all good afternoon! We will, I presume, continue this discussion when his Excellency recovers his temper – and his dignity!”
He wheels and strides towards the door of the room. The men spring up in the seats.
Manners:
“Colonel --- Please ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Step from this room and I’ll order your arrest!”
Manners:
“Colonel – wait – please ---“
He moves quickly to Lights side and lays a hand on his arm. Light halts and says coldly
Light:
“Am I to understand that His excellency regrets the expression --- impudent, hopping landlubber!”
He speaks without turning. The men look at Hindmarsh, who sinks back in his chair and grunts
Hindmarsh:
“Yes --- yes ---“
Manners:
“Come back and sit down ---“
Light returns and takes his seat. The men do likewise. Although the tension has eased, the room is still tight with the clash of personalities. Stevenson clears his throat.
Stevenson:
“Colonel ---“
Light:
“Well?”
Stevenson:
“His Excellency has given you an order ---“Light:
“Which I refuse to obey!”
Stevenson:
“Because of the people ---“Light:
“Not only the people! The prerogative of moving the capital remains with a higher power than the Governor!”
Hindmarsh:
“I have full power of control in this colony!”
Light:
“The Commissioners have full power of control! They gained this shortly after your sailing in the Buffalo!”
Gilles: (To Hindmarsh)“Is this true, Sir?”
Hindmarsh:
“A pack of lies! An excuse to side-step my order!”
Manners:
“Have you proof of this, Colonel?”
Light:
“Summon the Resident Commissioner here!”
Hindmarsh:
“Piffle! Fisher would have let me know before this! I am not to be fooled, Light. This is a malicious invention bred by your jealousy of my position here!”
Light: (Quietly)“Whatever jealousy exists between us is solely on your side!”
Hindmarsh:
“Prove it!”
Light:
“You have been jealous of my rank and my position from the first moment you set foot in the Colony! Nor have you ever forgiven the Commissioners for leaving the selection of the capital site to me! But --- unable to vent your spite on the Board, you have shown it by attempting to belittle me in every way!”
Hindmarsh:
“Lies ---!”
Light:
“I say that in every possible way you have deliberately held up the survey of the town!”
Hindmarsh:
“Take care Light! Such words bring you dangerously near sedition!”
Light:
“It is more than time, sir, that we knew where we both stand! Your jealousy of me – aided by Stevenson’s venomous pen and poisonous press – has gone on too long!”
(Stevenson leaps to his feet)
Stevenson:
“This is too much! I demand, sir, that you order this man’s arrest! If not for your own safety --- then for the safety of the Colony you rule!”
(Light wheels on him, his voice like steel)
Light:
“Be warned, Stevenson! Do not fly too high! You have embroiled your Governor in enough trouble! Would you add civil war to his sorrows?”
(Stevenson turns to Hindmarsh)Stevenson:
“Sir ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Shut up and sit down ---“
Stevenson, panting with rage, resumes his seat, watching Light with open malevolence. Hindmarsh addresses Light
Hindmarsh:
“I’ve been very patient with you, Colonel! I’ve ordered you to survey the new location at Encounter Bay! What’s your answer?”
Light:
“Until I receive orders direct from the Commissioners – no!”
There is a small agitated pause. Hindmarsh rises slowly to his feet --- and his tone is like the roll of drums
Hindmarsh:
“Colonel William Light! As Governor of the Colony of South Australia, I order your arrest on three charges! Of insulting a superior officer in the execution of his duty to the Crown! Of deliberate and calculated disobedience to your Governor’s orders! Of making libellous statements against the Crown and attempting to undermine its authority!”
(He raps the words)“Stevenson! Call a marine!”
Stevenson springs quickly to his feet and crosses to the right hand door. But as he reaches it, it opens. The housekeeper pushes a paper into his hand with a whisper. During the ensuing dialogue, Stevenson opens the enclosure and reads it. Meanwhile Light is on his feet.
Light:
“One moment, sir! I have no doubt that this is as good a way as any to rid yourself of a very irritating thorn in your flesh! But have you considered the commissioners –“
Hindmarsh:
“I’ll take full responsibility!”
Light:
“Already they are gravely displeased with many of your actions in this Colony! I urge you to think carefully before ---“
(and now Stevenson, at the door, gives a cry of dismay)
Stevenson:
“Sir --- !”
(He is staring with ashen face at the message. Slowly he looks up at the Governor)
Hindmarsh:
“Man! What ails you? What is it?”
Stevenson:“This note --- a runner just brought it from --- Encounter Bay ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Encounter Bay?”
Stevenson: (Huskily)“There’s been an accident. Judge Jeffcott --- Captain Blenkinsop ---“
Hindmarsh:
“What about them?”
Stevenson:“They had concluded their business and were intent upon exploring the Murray mouth. A sudden gale sprung up and their boat overturned ---“
As they stare at him, he comes slowly forward and puts the note in front of Hindmarsh. The Governor says sharply
Hindmarsh:
“Were they --- injured?”
Stevenson:“Dead ---! Both drowned ---“
With a sharp breath, Hindmarsh scoops up the note and glances at the message. The men have risen to their feet in consternation. Very slowly, Hindmarsh crumples the note in his fingers and slumps down in his chair. He tries to speak, then licks his dry lips and mutters
Hindmarsh:
“Jeffcott --- dead ---! Of all places --- Encounter Bay ---!”
There is a moment of complete stillness. Then Light picks up the survey order and tears it in half – in quarters. He faces Hindmarsh and says very slowly
Light:
“And that, sir --- was your idea of a safe and navigable harbour!”
(No one moves)
THE CURTAIN FALLS SLOWLY.
ACT II
Act two – Scene one
BANK OF THE RIVER TORRENS: Six Months Later.
From a grove of gum trees and stunted yucca, a green bank is seen. The time is about four o’clock in the afternoon.
Linda and Light are discovered. She is standing against a tree stump, holding a bunch of wattle bloom. Light is some little distance away, putting quick, deft finishing touches to a drawing on a sketching pad. He looks older, more tired.
The gentle hush of late autumn is spread over the scene. Light lifts his pencil, scrutinises the sketch then shakes his head.
Light:
“It’s hopeless!”
Linda:
“Let me see it.”
Light:
“No, no … it’s nothing but a poor caricature!”
(He whips the paper from the block and tears it in half, dropping the pieces beside him on the bank)
Linda:
“Try again.”
Light:“No. You must be tired, Linda. And the light is fading. Come --- rest awhile.”
Linda crosses and sits on the grass beside him. There is a comfortable little silence. Presently she says
Linda:
“Isn’t it quiet, Will?”
Light:
“Wonderful! I never realised there could be such peace … such stillness.”
Linda:
“We might be a thousand miles away from the Colony ---“
Light:
“How I wish we were!”
(As Linda looks up)
“Oh, Linda – I’m so desperately tired of it all! So weary of the bitterness – the jealousy! Perhaps I’m getting old – losing fire –“
Linda:
“Nonsense ---“
Light:
“This is all I want now --- peace --- stillness --- pause to rest and talk and listen.”
Linda: (Gently)
“Will ---“
Light:
“Yes?”
Linda:“You’re working too hard.”
Light:
“Perhaps ---“
There is a silence. Linda speaks a trifle anxiously
Linda:
“Is it your health, Will?”
Light:“No ---“
Linda:
“Sure?”
Light:“In truth, Linda --- I am not sick so much in body as in mind. Time was when I took a pride in my work – when I welcomed each new day for my labour. But now ---“
Linda:
“Now?”
Light:“I cannot shake off a depression. A sense of utter futility…”
Linda:
“Futility? Oh, Will --- has overwork sapped your imagination as well as your strength? What of your dreams?”
Light:“A frail foundation for happiness!”
Linda:
“Not when they come true! Why, from this very struggle you are raising a lasting monument to your name!”Light:
“Who will remember a poor surveyor --- a petty official?”
Linda:
“They will remember his work!”
Light:
“Oh, Linda --- if only it grows as I planned! A white city of wide streets, set against the hills and swept clean with the fresh sea winds! A city of sunshine and freedom and the laughter of little children --- if only I can carry it out!”
Linda:
“You will!”
Light:
“If only I could be sure!”
Linda:
“Within a few days, Mr. Kingston returns with the extra help you sought from the Commissioners in London.”
Light:
“Yes! With this behind me, nothing can stand in my way!”
Linda:
“There is the Governor ---“
Light:
“Hindmarsh? He may not be here to oppose me!”Linda: (Surprised)
“Why not?”
Light:“When my Deputy-Surveyor sailed for London, he had two duties to perform. One was to obtain additional help for the surveys ---“
Linda:
“And the other?”
Light: (Slowly)
“Kingston was to place a record of Hindmarsh’s muddling incompetence before the Commissioners --- and ask for his recall!”
He is excited, eager. But there is no enthusiasm in Linda’s face. She rises slowly to her feet. Light says in surprise)
“Linda ---“
Linda:
“Yes?”
Light:“I thought you’d be delighted at the news! With Hindmarsh gone my biggest obstacle is removed.”
Linda:
“True --- but ---“
Light:
“But what?”
Linda turns to face him. She says, quietly
Linda:
“Such a pity it could not have come about some other way. Like this, it seems to smack of --- treachery ---“
Light:
“But surely you realise this Colony will never progress while Hindmarsh remains Governor?”
Linda:“I realise it very well.”
Light:
“Yet you disapprove of what I’ve done?”
(Linda makes a little puzzled, bewildered movement with her hand)Linda:
“I don’t know. Once everything was so clear in my mind. Now ---“
Light:
“Yes?”
Linda:“Affection and principle oppose each other so bitterly. I am confused ---“
Light rises to his feet and crosses to her. He says gently
Light:
“Linda ---“
Linda:
“Yes?”
Light:
“Can I ever hope to match your perfection?”
Linda: (Half smiling)“You can ask that? Knowing me all these months?”
Light:
“I have valued your friendship much too dearly to search for faults.”
Some hidden meaning in his tone causes her to turn away. She says quickly
Linda:
“It has been all so pleasant, or liking the same things. Books and music and poetry. It has been a true companionship ---“
Light: (Quietly)
“No, Linda ---“(He turns her round very gently)
“For me --- all this has gone deeper than mere companionship ---“
(She does not look at him)“I have been waiting to tell you this for so long --- since that night, months ago, when you played my song. I knew --- then ---“
Linda:
“Will ---“
Light:
“When I told you I was sick in mind, it was the truth! I have had no peace, sleeping or waking!” (His voice slows) “I love you dearly, Linda.”
(She stands with bowed head and Light cries out, almost in pain)
“Have you nothing to say?”
Slowly Linda looks up. Her voice is quiet, too quiet, as though she kept too tight a rein on herself
Linda:
“Between us, there can be no talk of love!”
Light:“But you must know how I feel!”
Linda:“If there is love, we must be strong! We must cast it out!”
Light:
“No, Linda, no! Oh, my dearest one, there is so little happiness in life! Love makes that happiness! If we cast out love, what remains?”
(Linda cries out the words, almost harshly)
Linda:
“Trust remains! And honor!”
Light: (Bitterly)
“Trust! Honor! To you those words come so easily!”
Linda:“How can you say that!”
Light:
“You talk of companionship! What use is that to me? Oh, Linda! If you could be know the strength of my love – the agony and bitter hunger of it! Could you be so steadfast then?”
(Linda looks at him and there is gentle pain in her voice as she speaks)Linda:
“And you think I know nothing of these things?”
Light:“How can you?”
Linda:“Dear God! Am I hewn out of solid rock! I have thoughts and desires and passions even as you! Oh, Will --- now I will tell you something I have never breathed to a living soul ---“
Light: (Softly)
“Yes ---?”
Linda:“Ever since I was little, I have read my Bible before I sleep at night. Once there was a time when I read the simple childish verse --- but that time is gone!”
(She looks at him, head high, almost challengingly and the burning naked passion in her tone quivers and trembles)
“Shall I tell you what I read now? The Song of Solomon! It has the very words that keep singing in my heart! “Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth, for thy love is better than wine!” Oh, my dearest heart --- see how I know --- chapter and verse! “His left hand is under my head and his right hand doth embrace me ---“
(She stops, head high, her breast rising and falling)
Light: (Gently)
“Oh, my darling ---“
Linda:
“Now do you understand!”
Light:
“Yes --- but before --- How could I when you gave me no sign?”
Linda:“And you think it was simple! To feel your touch on my arm set my blood pounding --- to talk of companionship --- when my very soul cries out for the strength of your love!”
Suddenly, she buries her head in her hands, almost in sudden shame at her confession. She turns away as Light speaks gently
Light:
“Linda ---“
(And when she does not speak)
“You have known of this --- for long?”
Linda: (A whisper)
“Weeks --- months ---“
Light:
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
(Linda turns to him, speaks with trembling fervour)Linda:
“What right had I?”
Light:
“Don’t speak of rights!”
Linda:
“We must!”
Light:
“What are petty rights and wrongs compared to our love! In the past, I made a mistake! Is my punishment to continue?”
Linda:“There is nothing we can do.”
Light:
“Yes! We can start afresh! Take our happiness together!”
Linda:“Such happiness is not for us!”
Light:“We love each other!”
Linda:
“But you are not free to love ---“(In passionate agony, Light thrusts out both hands)
Light:
“Dear God! Are there chains about my wrists?”
Linda: (Slowly)
“No --- only about your heart!”
(Light, stricken at the bitter truth of her words, turns away. Linda says gently)
“I should not have said that ---“
Light:
“It is I who should ask your forgiveness. I forgot your greatness, Linda ---“
Linda: (Slowly)
“Yet at this moment I would change places with the meanest wench in the Colony!”
(As Light turns slowly and looks at her, she goes on)
“Then I could come to you boldly, regardless of the consequences --- the shabby wreck of two lives --- yours --- mine ---“
There is a pause. Then Light speaks, his tone sombre with humility
Light:
“Help me, Linda. Tell me what I must do”
Linda:
“You must promise me one thing. This must never happen again.”
Light:
“I cannot promise that --- I cannot!”Linda:
“You must!”
Light: (In bitter agony)
“Do you ask me to be more than human!”
Linda:
“I ask you to think of me! Rather than endure this scene again, it would be better never to meet ---“
Light:
“No!”
Linda:
“Then you promise?”
Light: (Slowly)“If it must be so --- yes.”
She reaches forward and presses his hands, a little gesture of comfort. Then, corssing to the tree stump she picks up her parasol. She turns
Linda:
“It is late. I must hurry home.”
Light:
“Wait ---“
(He picks up his sketching pad from the grass)
Light:
“No, Will, I must go alone.”
Light:
“Alone? But it grows dark ---“Linda:
“I can find my way easily”
Light:
“I would not dream of such a thing! Let me ---“
Linda:
“We must not be seen together!”
Light:
“Why not?”
Linda:“It is Papa. He has forbidden that I see you except in our house.”
Light:
“But ---“
Linda:
“Had Papa not been away, I would never have dared come here alone this afternoon.”
Light: (Slowly)
“Is it this gossip?”
Linda:
“Yes.”
Light:
“But surely your father trusts you ---?”
Linda:“It is not so much Papa ---“
Light:
“Well?”
Linda:“These whispered stories of our meetings have reached the ears of the Governor ---“
Light:
“Hindmarsh?”
Linda:“A vindictive man, Will --- and dangerous! This gossip could give him a weapon against which we have no defence!”
Light:
“No --- even Hindmarsh could not stoop so low ---“
Linda:
“We must give him no opportunity! That’s why I must go back --- alone.”
Light:
“But --- when will I see you again?”
Linda: (Smiling)“Very soon.”
Light: (Insistent)
“Yes --- but when?”
Linda:
“Papa will be home in a few days. Perhaps we could arrange some music at our house. I will ask mama.”
Light:
“I cannot wait that long. Could I call tomorrow evening?”
Linda: (Gently)
“You must be patient, Will. All the years are ahead of us --- there is so much time to plan and ---“
She stops abruptly as something catches in Lights throat. Again his body is racked with the stifled paroxysm of coughing. He fumbles for his handkerchief, presses it quickly to his lips, wiping them rapidly, furtively. Still holding the handkerchief, he turns, breathless, husky
Light:
“This --- this chill night air ---“
He stops, conscious of Linda’s horror-stricken eyes fixed on the handkerchief in his hand. He makes a movement to stuff it in his pocket, but Linda springs forward
Linda:
“Will ---?” (Sharply) “Will --- show me that handkerchief?”
(Light turns from her and thrusts it into his pocket, speaking as he does so --- almost harshly)
Light:
“No, no ---!” (Then, as though realising the futility of subterfuge, he says slowly) “There’s --- nothing we can do --- Dr. Woodforde said so himself --- weeks ago ---“
Linda: (Slowly)
“Oh, my darling ---! But --- why didn’t you tell me?”
(Light turns to her. He smiles gently)
Light:
“Of what use, Linda? You could have been no --- kinder?”
Linda stares at him. She says very quietly
Linda:
“No --- Only --- wiser ---“
Her eyes look steadfastly into his face as ---
THE CURTAIN FALLS SLOWLY.
Act Two – Scene two.
INTERIOR OF LIGHT’S COTTAGE. One week later.
A room built of weatherboard, lined inside. It has few furnishings, but these show taste and discernment. There are several good water-colours on the walls. The furniture is massive, and somehow suggestive of a ship. Against the back wall is a sideboard on which stands a jug of water and several glasses. A fireplace is downstage left and near this is a heavy seaman’s chest. On the table, near centre, a large paraffin lamp burns. A small fire is blazing in the fireplace. There are two entrances – right wall upstage and left down past the fireplace.
When the curtain rises, it is about nine o’clock of an Autumn night. A woman is bending over the fire, poking at the embers. This is Maria, Light’s housekeeper. She rises, stands looking around the room then brings a chair close to the fire. At that moment, a knock comes to the door up right.
She moves across and opens it. Linda enters, followed be Travers Finniss. Their faces are set --- worried ---
Finniss:
“The outer door was open, Maria --- we came straight through ---
Linda:“Did the Colonel get our note?”
Maria:“Yes, Miss Linda. He should be here directly. But you are early.”
Finniss: (Sombre)
“I know.”
Linda:
“How is the Colonel?”
Maria:“Far from well. He rose from his bed but ten minutes ago.”
Finniss:
“His wound troubles him?”
Maria: (Shakes her head)“It is the cough --- this morning he could barely speak. He caught a chill a week ago, sketching on the river bank. It settled on his chest.”
Finniss:
“I wondered why he didn’t get down to the boat to meet Kingstone this morning.”
Maria:“This morning, the pain was too great for him to move across the room.”
Linda:
“Has he been like this very long?”
Maria:“It was bad yesterday. Then, this afternoon, your message came. It was wonderful to see the difference it made --- he seemed like a new man!”
(Finniss turns miserably to the fireplace)
Finniss:
“God help me ---“
Maria:
“I’ll knock on the Colonel’s door and tell him you’re both here.”
She crosses and exits down right. Linda moves around the room, then takes off her shawl and hangs it on the back of a chair near left hand door. Meanwhile Finniss stares unhappily into the fireplace. Suddenly he takes from his pocket an official envelope
Finniss: (Bitterly)
“If only I had the courage to burn this thing.”
Linda: (Wearily)
“Someone else would have to break the news to him. You are the Colonel’s best friend. It will come easier from you than from Hindmarsh.”
Finniss:
“It’s because I’m his best friend that I find it so devilishly difficult! Why else do you think I called on you to help me?”
There is a pause, heavy --- brooding with anxiety. Linda, standing with clasped hands, speaks quietly
Linda:
“Mr. Finniss ---“
(He turns)
“There is no chance whatsoever of this cruel order being rescinded?”
Finniss:
“No.”(And suddenly he bursts out)
“Miss Linda, I can’t do this thing! It’s asking too much of me!”
Linda:“I loathe the task even more than you do. But rather than let Hindmarsh announce this news, I’ll tell the Colonel myself!”
(She puts out her hand)
“Give it to me!”
(Finniss hesitates, then slips the document back into his pocket)Finniss:
“I’ll do it.”
The opening of the right entrance door attracts their attention. Light enters. He has dressed hurriedly and untidily. He limps forward, his face grey and drawn with pain. Only his eyes are bring and burning with some inward fire. About his whole appearance is a forced, unnatural animation, as though some feverish anticipation is urging his sick body onto this great moment. His face lights as he comes down
Light:
“Finniss! And Miss Linda! I did not expect such a pleasure!”
Finniss:
“I asked Miss Linda to come with me ---“
Light:
“Naturally! It is only right my two closest friends should be present on such a grand occasion ---“
(And now he is moving chairs to the fire, fussing with his jacket, all the time keeping up a running fire of eager, excited chatter)
“And how is Mr. Kingston, Travers? I must present my apologies for not being down at the boat to meet him. But this wretched chill continues to trouble me --- somehow I cannot throw it off! But it’s this wretched inactivity that has fostered my illness --- now that Kingston has returned with all the help I need, we can get to work again! I’ll forget this ailing body in the planning and building ahead!”
(And now he turns to them)“Now, tell me the news! I suppose it would be too much to expect that the commissioners have agreed to my full complement of surveyors?”
(No one speaks. For the first time, Light sees their dark and shadowed faces. He says)“Is anything the matter? It --- is good news?”
(Slowly, Finniss shakes his head. Light gives a little gasp of dismay and reaching out an unsteady hand, grips the tops of the chair. He says quietly)“Travers ---? The Commissioners haven’t --- refused?”
Finniss: (Slowly)“Yes, Will. I’m afraid they have.”
Light stares at the couple incredulously. One sees that this is the last possible thing he expected. He says unsteadily
Light:
“Some mistake --- surely --- ?”
Finniss:“No.”
Light:
“Then what --- what ---?”
His voice trails away. Finniss starts to speak, but the look on his friends face silences the words on his lips. It is Linda who says quietly --- bravely ---
Linda:
“Mr. Fisher sent you a letter, Will. From the Commissioners. It … explains everything. Mr. Finniss has it.”
Light turns to Finniss, who takes the document from his pocket and hands it to his friend. Light takes it, breaks the seal and opens the document. He slants it towards the lamplight, closes his eyes, shakes his head, then hands the document to Linda
Light:
“Read it for me. My eyes are weak tonight. And Fisher’s handwriting was always execrable!”
(Linda takes the document and beings to read in a low, clear voice)
Linda:
“To Colonel William Light, Surveyor-General of South Australia ---
Acting under orders from the Commissioners I am addressing this letter to you, calling on you to state in writing, within one week, whether you will undertake to effect a running survey of a hundred and fifty square miles ---“
Light:
“Running survey? What is Fisher talking about? I am not surveying a local fair ground.”
Finniss: (Quietly)
“There is more to come ---“
(Light turns to Linda, who continues gently)
Linda:
“The Commissioners trust that Colonel Light will pledge himself to obey the required conditions. But if it is not done in the week allowed, Mr. Kingston is to be notified that the supervision of the entire survey has --- devolved in him ---“
A gasp from Light. Linda’s tone trembles ever so slightly as she continues
Linda:
“… and that Mr. Kingston is henceforth to act on all instruction given from time to time to the surveyor general --- and exercise all powers attached to that appointment ---“
Her voice dies away. Light is open-mouthed, almost gasping in his incredulous amazement. When he speaks his voice is a dry croak
Light:
“What does this all mean?”
(Finniss does not look at him as he replies)Finniss:
“The Commissioners consider your present method of survey too slow and too costly, Will. Unless you are prepared to change it, you are to be suspended from your position of surveyor-general --- and Kingston assumes full control in your place.”
There is a moment’s pause, then Light’s whole body sags limply into a chair. He covers his face with his hands. Linda and Finniss spring to his side
Linda:
“Will ---“
Finniss:
“Are you all right?”
Light removes his hands from his face. He makes an obvious effort at self control and when he speaks his voice is steadier
Light:
“It was just --- the first shock ---“
(He raises a haggard face to Finniss)
“So --- Hindmarsh has the last laugh, after all?”
Finniss:“If it is any comfort to you, Hindmarsh goes, too! The Commissioners intimated that much to Kingston!”
Light: (Bitter)
“My clever deputy surveyor appears in very good favour!”
Finniss:
“Small profit he will make from it, Will! I can speak for the entire staff when I say there isn’t a single man who will take orders from Kingston!”
Light:“They may think differently when his appointment is announced!”
(He stands suddenly upright)
“You may take this message back to Kingston --- That I do not need five minutes to consider such a proposal, let alone a week! I would never dream of continuing office under such humiliating circumstances!”
He turns away. Linda, suffering with him, cries out bitterly
Linda:
“So much for justice! So much for honourable reward! You have lived for this colony --- built into it the very strength from your body! And this is how you are repaid!”
Light:
“Hush, Linda ---“(Linda wheels on Finniss)
Linda:
“Did Mr. Kingston tell the Commissioners the true reason for these delays they criticise? How the Colonel had to fight the Governor every step of the way? How most of the journeys had to be done on foot, cutting through the tangled scrubland? Did Mr. Kingston explain how bad food and poor wages turned the survey workers from willing laborers to discontented ruffians – and how the Colonel, in a desperate effort to push on the surveys, paid the men out of his own pocket?”
Finniss:
“Have no fear, Miss Linda! If Kingston has not explained these things, I certainly will!”
Light: (Wearily)“I doubt if it will do much good, Travers ---“
Finniss:
“Why not?”
Light:
“The Commissioners have already made up their minds I have neglected my duties and bungled my appointment!”
Finniss:
“It’s shameful!”
Light:
“Please --- let us talk to more about it. I am weary of the whole sorry business!”
He resumes his seat and sits staring into the fire. A silence falls on the little group. It is Finniss who breaks it, speaking rather hesitantly
Finniss:
“Will ---“
(As Light raises his head)
“Forgive an old friend this liberty. But --- what are your plans?”
Light:
“No doubt something will turn up for me.”
Finniss:
“And until then?”
Light:
“I shall write my defence of these charges so that the Commissioners may know the truth!”
Finniss:“Of course, but --- what about money?”
(He pauses and as Light does not speak, he hurries on)“In carrying out your duties, you’ve sacrificed your personal fortune. How are you going to live now?”
Light:“Once my name is cleared, I can go to work.”
Finniss: (Quietly)
“Colonel --- in my pocket are two letters --- resignations --- mine and Mr. Houghton’s. They were written this afternoon. They go to Fisher first thing tomorrow.”
Light:
“But what will you do?”
Finniss:“Nixon and Jacob are resigning with us. Together we mean to start a private firm. We should like to name it --- “Light, Finniss and Company” ---“
(Light does not speak, but slowly he gets to his feet)
“Well?”
Light puts out his hand and Finniss grips it. Light says very simply
Light:
“My friend. My very good friend.”
(There is a moment’s silence, then almost in embarrassment, Finniss drops the hand and speaks quickly to cover his emotion)
Finniss:
“Then it is settled! I am to see Houghton tonight ---“
Light:
“You waste no time ---“
Finniss:
“Why delay once the course is decided?”
(He turns to Linda)“And thank you, Miss Linda --- have no fear about tonight.”
(He crosses to the door)
“Take courage, Will. I think this is the beginning of better times. And watch your health! Now we need you more than ever!”
He exits. As the door closes behind him, Light turns to Linda
Light:
“What did he mean?”
Linda:“Now that you are free from interference ---“
Light:
“No, no! His other remark. That you must have no fear about tonight?”
(Linda turns away)Linda:
“It was nothing”
Light: (Quietly)
“Linda ---“
(She turns)
Linda:
“Yes?
Light:
“Does Mr. Manners know you are here?”
Linda:
“Papa was summoned to the Government House ---“
Light:
“And during his absence, you came?”
Linda:
“Yes.”Light:
“And against your father’s wishes. Linda that was so very foolish ---“
Linda:
“Not for me, Will. The issue was simple. You needed me”
(She takes his hand and leads him to his chair)
“And so --- I am here.”
Light:
“So --- from the bitterest misfortune, some good comes. Have I not found my truest friends?”
Linda:“There should be so many more!”
Light:
“Two faithful friends are as much as any man can ask --- or deserve!”
Light is seated. Linda drops onto the hassock at his feet
Linda:
“I have done so little ---“
Light:
“You have done everything, Linda.”
Linda:
“You give me too much honour, sir.”
Light:
“No. These past days, lying in that quiet room, I have come to know the truth. One man’s strength is only so much --- and I have reached the limit.”
Linda:
“I will not listen to such nonsense!” This is not the man I know!”
Light: (Gently)
“Tonight, Linda, you see me for what I am! No brave figure of defiance, but a poor creature near broken by ill-health and misfortune. A man clinging desperately to the one unchanging thing in a world of deceit and treachery!”
Linda:
“Deceit and treachery cannot last, Will! You work will remain --- long after men like Fisher and Hindmarsh are forgotten!”
Light:
“So I must live in the future? I cannot do it, Linda ---“
Linda: (Gently)“Will ---“
Light:
“Surely it is not too much to ask for some little happiness now? Am I always destined for discouragement?”
Linda reaches up and takes his hand in hers. She says very gently
Linda:
“Every great and lasting achievement is born of sorrow and heartbreak. Lift up your eyes, Will! The very mountain tops in all their majesty were but wrought by the tortured agony of the earth!”
Light: (Softly)
“Linda ---“
Linda:
“Shame on you, sir. Are you the first man to suffer persecution for your ideals? Think of Michelangelo – blinded, deserted, yet hewing in stone beauty matchless and unconquerable! And Shelly, reviled by his fellows, snared by his passions, embittered --- lonely! And Keats – unhappy Keats – shackled by ill health, driven to his grave by callous critics, who in their jealousy shut their ears to words that echoed the very music of the spheres!”
Light rises slowly to his feet. Gently, still holding her hands, he brings Linda up with him. The inspiration has flooded back into his face
Light:
“You believe in me --- as much as that?”
Linda:
“More! Much more!”
Light:
“And you say you’ve done so little? It is so little to fill a barren, empty life with the new inspiration to live --- to fight?”
Linda:
“That quality was yours long before you met me!”
Light:
“And you think it could have stood alone under such adversity? Oh, Linda dearest --- if anything were to take you from me ---“
Linda:
“Nothing will take me from you, Will. Whenever you need me, I will be here --- always ---“
There comes a light tap on the door. Light and Linda exchange a look. The tap sounds again. Maria’s voice sounds offstage
Maria:
“Colonel ---“
Light:
“What is it, Maria?”
Maria: (Offstage)“His Excellency is here, sir.”
Linda: (Soft alarm)
“Hindmarsh!”
Light:
“He must not find you here!”
Linda: (Steadily)
“I do not fear the Governor’s malice ---“
Light:“You cannot afford to be mixed up in any trouble, Linda! Go home as quickly as you can ---“
(The tap on the door sounds again)
Maria: (Offstage)
“His Excellency is waiting, Sir.”
Light: (Softly)
“Annie is in the kitchen. She will take you across the paddock. Now --- hurry!”
He presses her hands and ushers her quickly through the other door. The tap on the door, more urgently
Maria: (Offstage)
“Sir ---“
Light: (Impatiently)
“One moment ---“
(From offstage comes Hindmarsh’s impatient voice)
Hindmarsh:
“Stand aside, woman!”
Maria: (Offstage)
“But, your Excellency ---“
Hindmarsh: (Offstage)
“I’m going in!”
Hindmarsh enters. It is obvious that the Governor has been drinking. His small eyes are bloodshot and there is the faintest slurring of his speech when he talks. He stands just inside the door, hands behind his back – the captain on his quarter-deck, balancing himself on his stocky legs. He looks steadily at Light and speaks with a slow malevolence
Hindmarsh:
“A word with you!”
Light:
“Well, Sir?”
Hindmarsh:“No doubt you wonder why I’m here?”
Light: (Wearily)
“If you have come to acquaint me with the Commissioners’ ultimatum, then, sir, you are too late!”
Hindmarsh:
“Apparently bad news travels fast?”
Light:“Aye --- even to the position of Governor!”
Hindmarsh:
“What do you mean?”
Light:
“Since Kingston’s return, I understand that we are both in the same unhappy position!”
Now Hindmarsh strides forward. He is smouldering with the blackest of rages, all the more dangerous for its repression. He says slowly
Hindmarsh:
“This was to have been a great occasion for you, Light ---“
Light:
“In what way, sir?”
Hindmarsh:“Do you deny that my deposition is due to any other cause but your lies? Lies which Kingston has placed, at your bidding, before the Commissioners? Do you imagine I am blind to the fact that all this is but the fruits of months of intrigue?”
Light:“I deny that, sir!”
Hindmarsh:
“Why? I’ll tell you why? Because the whole dirty plan has suddenly recoiled on your own head! Because, in setting a snare for another’s feet, you’ve fouled your own!”
Light turns away. He says quietly
Light:
“I have no wish to discuss the matter.”
Hindmarsh:
“Because the words leave a bitter taste in your mouth?”
(Light swings round on his tormentor, his face pale and angry)Light:
“Sir – I beg of you! State your business and go away!”
Hindmarsh:
“When I choose!”
Light:
“In God’s name! Can’t you see I am not myself tonight?”
Hindmarsh: (With slow venom)“I scarcely imagined you would be! Malice and enmity are slow poisons, my fine fellow! But they wither the soul, not the body!”
Light:
“How well you state it, sir!”
Hindmarsh:
“State what?”
Light:“Your own pitiable case! You talk of poisons that wither the heart --- when your own soul is curdled black with hatred!”
Hindmarsh:
“That’s enough!”Light:
“Even now – with the tide of adversity rising above your own head – you come here to gloat! To wring the last drop of bitter relish from a companion’s misfortune!”
Hindmarsh: (Snarling)
“Companion? Never!”
Light: (Turning away)
“I assure you, Sir --- a figure of speech.”
Hindmarsh:
“To the devil with your figures of speech! I’ll have none of them! I call a spade a spade!”
(Light wheels back on him)
Light:
“And you have very successfully dug your own grave with it!”
Hindmarsh:
“If I have, you lie deep beside me!”
(Light stares at Hindmarsh, then he says very quietly)
Light:
“Aye --- there’s the tragedy of it. So much we might have accomplished together! Here we had virgin soil – to till and sow and watch grow fruitful! But in their blindness, the Commissioners must needs yoke alien beasts to the plough, so that even the first furrows were twisted --- useless ---“
(Hindmarsh, listening to this, waves a contemptuous hand)
Hindmarsh:
“Spare me the pious prattle, Colonel! I’ve not come here to listen to that!”
Light:
“why have you come?”
Hindmarsh:“To give you warning!”
(Something in the other’s tone makes Light say slowly)
Light:
“What now?”
Hindmarsh:“In spite of your studied knavery, I must remind you that I am still Governor of this Colony until such time as Gawler arrives here ---“
Light:
“Does anyone dispute the fact?”
(And now Hindmarsh is watching him closely with those small, red eyes)
Hindmarsh:
“In such capacity – however temporary – I am responsible for the --- morals of the officers who serve under me ---“
Light:
“I no longer serve under you!”
Hindmarsh: (Pouncing)”Then you accuse yourself?”
Light:“Sir ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Out of your own mouth, Colonel Light! Out of your own mouth!”
Light:
“No ---“
Hindmarsh:
“So ready with your silken words! So glib with the phrases that roll from the tongue! I knew that sooner or later such cleverness must trip you up!”
Light:“I said nothing ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Nothing! Why man --- here in your own house you have brazenly admitted what is being whispered in every tap room in the town! And you have not even the common decency to deny your shady intrigues!”
Hindmarsh stops. There is a silence, a swollen, bursting silence tight with the quivering hatren between these two men. Light walks straight up to the Governor until they almost touch, but Hindmarsh stands his ground. Light says with a curious repressed coldness
Light:
“Even a tongue loosened by liquor can go too far! I must ask you to apologise for that last remark!”
Hindmarsh:
“So --- it would seem I have touched a very tender spot!”
(Light raises his arm and points to the door)
Light:
“Get out of this house!”
Hindmarsh:“Do you realise who I am?”
Light:“Go! Go, before I forget!”
Hindmarsh:
“I shall go when I’m finished. I’ve come here ---“
Light:
“Save your breath, Hindmarsh! I fully realise why you came here ---“
Hindmarsh:
“So?”
Light:
“It was not, as I first believed, to make me target for your twisted satisfaction! In that I flattered you! Only now do I see the real depths of your infamy ---“
Hindmarsh:
“Words ---!”
Light:
“You mean to take back to the Commissioners this lying tale. As proof of the shabby reputation of your accuser! And this you hope to do before the shaky mantle of authority slips from your shoulders!”
Hindmarsh:“Then you deny these rumours?”
(Light measures Hindmarsh with a look, then turns away in contempt)Light:
“I would not even waste the breath!”
(Hindmarsh looks at him for a long moment, then he crosses to the door, speaking as he goes)
Hindmarsh:
“I think you may change your mind about that, Sir!”
(He flings open the door and calls to someone outside)
“Come in here!”
Henry Manners enters. He carries something behind him and there is hostility in the set of his shoulders. Light stares at him in surprise
Light:
“Sir ---?”
Hindmarsh:“We arrived together. I requested the first interview.
(Light turns to Manners and gestures to a chair)
Light:
“This is an unexpected pleasure, sir ---“
Manners: (Still standing)
“I should rather term it an unpleasant duty.”
Light:
“Unpleasant?”
Manners:“No other term can be applied to the rising tide of gossip within this Colony, linking my daughter’s name with your own!”
Light:
“His Excellency brought you here on this matter?”
Manners: (Coldly)“Like myself, his Excellency is deeply concerned!”
(Light turns away)
Light: (With irony)
“Naturally!”
Manners:
“Is that all you have to say?”
(Light turns --- he speaks quietly)Light:
“Only this, sir! You do your daughter a grave injustice listening to such idle gossip!”
Manners:
“Were it but gossip --- yes!”
(From behind his back he thrusts out the two pieces of the torn sketch)
Manners:
“This evening, His Excellency showed these to me! They were found by Mr. Orchard on the river bank!”
Light:“Well?”
Manners:“Do you deny this is your work?”
Light:“I have no reason to deny anything, sir. It is true I met Miss Linda there ---“
Hindmarsh:
“You see? He admits it!”
Light: (Turning on Hindmarsh like steel)
“Of course I admit it, Sir. Why not?” (He quietens, bows to Manners) “I have the privilege of your daughter’s friendship.”
Manners:
“And is that all?”
There is a pause. Manners adds sharply
“Well?”
Light:“I would prefer to answer that question --- in private!”
Hindmarsh: (Sneering)“No doubt, Colonel! Dirty linen washes best behind the closed door!”
Light:“Sir --- I beg you not to listen to this man!”
Manners:
“Then answer my question!”
(Light draws a deep breath)
Light:
“Very well! It was not until a week ago that I told Miss Linda of my deep affection for her. But she refused even to listen to me ---“
Manners:
“I should think not!”
Light:
“Miss Linda warned me that if I ever spoke so, she would never see me again. I gave her my solemn promise!”Manners:
“You have kept it?”
Light:“On my word as a gentleman!”
There is a pause. Manners, uncertain how to continue in the face of Light’s sincere avowal, hesitates and looks at the Governor. Hindmarsh says thinly
Hindmarsh:
“Have a care, Manners ---“
Manners:
“Sir, I must accept this gentleman’s word ---“Hindmarsh:
“Does that mean so very much? What is your precious gentleman these days but a foppish product of the Royal Courts? Can you accept the word of one who has spent his days in petty intrigue and his nights posturing in a ballroom?”
(Light, smarting at the jibe, addresses Manners)Light:
“I take it His Excellency speaks from his own wide experience of Royal Courts?”
Hindmarsh: (Wheeling on him, goaded)“No, by God! I speak from my experience with you, Sir!”
Light:
“Rather you speak from rank jealousy!”
Hindmarsh: (Sneering)“Of what, may I ask?”
Light:
“Of me!”(Hindmarsh almost spits the words in his rage)
Hindmarsh:
“Of you? Should I be jealous of a self confessed libertine? A smooth-tongued lecherer!”
The left hand door opens. Linda stands in the entrance with Finniss. It is obvious that she has heard the Governor’s last words. Manners swings around
Manners:
“Linda!”
Linda: (Calmly)
“Yes, Papa.”
Manners:
“What are you doing here?”
Linda:“I was anxious about the Colonel! He is in no state for such a scene.”
Manners:
“But how could you have known --- unless ---“
(He stops. Linda nods very calmly. She says quietly)
Linda:
“Yes, Papa. I was here with the Colonel --- earlier this evening.”
Manners stares at Linda in shocked incredulity. Hindmarsh addresses him, gesturing to Light
Hindmarsh:
“So much for this man who prates so glibly of honor and virtue! Carrying on an intrigue as sordid as any between potman and scullery wench!”
(Linda stiffens in cold anger. She turns to her father).
Linda:
“Papa, you must ask his Excellency to remember our position here!”
Manners looks at her with set face. He says slowly
Manners:
“Position? How can you talk of position --- now?”
Linda: (Piteously)“But I have done nothing wrong ---“
Manners:“Nothing wrong? In God’s name, child --- are you bereft of all shame --- all decency?”
Linda:“Papa, listen ---“
Manners:
“To a fresh tissue of lies? Stand aside ---“
He strides to the door. Finniss who has not moved from his position at the door says quietly
Finniss:
“One moment, sir ---“
Manners:
“Not another word!”
Finniss:
“I think we talk at cross-purposes, Sir. It is true that Miss Linda was here tonight. But I was with her.”
Manners:“You?”
Finniss:“Mr. Kingston brought instructions from London – instructions which made it impossible for the Colonel to continue in his appointment as surveyor-general. It was no easy decision. If ever friends were needed, it was tonight. I asked Miss Linda to accompany me here.”
(Manners turns to Light)Manners:
“Is this true?”
Light:“Yes.”
Finniss:
“I have asked the Colonel to join me in a private survey company, since I, too, have resigned!”
There is a pause. Manners turns to Hindmarsh
Manners:
“Excellency ---“
Hindmarsh:“Well?”
Manners:“Surely you must have known of this?”
(Hindmarsh, cornered, glowers around the room)
Hindmarsh:
“Are you to be taken in by a cheap fiction, fabricated on the spur of the moment?”
Linda:“Perhaps His Excellency would prefer that we brought Mr. Kingston here?”
Hindmarsh:“I’ll see Kingston in my own time! I’ve enough enemies here already ---“
Manners: (Shocked)
“Enemies ---?”
(Hindmarsh, cornered and beaten, stands with head thrust forward, malevolence in his eyes, in his voice)Hindmarsh:
“Yes, enemies! All of you – arranged against you Governor in a petty conspiracy! Rats – gnawing at the very vitals of authority! But this isn’t the first time I’ve faced rebellious scum! Aye --- and whipped them to their knees --- and spat in their faces when they’ve begged for mercy!
(He turns and strides to the door. Then he wheels and addresses Light)
“On the quarter deck, men still talk of my long memory, Colonel! You’ll live to regret this moment just as surely as you’re born! And when I make my report to the Commissioners, your very name will stink through the length and breadth of England! Stink, do you hear me? Stink!”
He spits the last words, then wheels through the door and exits. The bitter enmity of his words hangs in the air for a second, then Finniss turns to Light
Finniss:
“Where is he going?”
Light:
“No doubt to Kingston!”Finniss:
“But he’s beside himself! He may do bodily harm ---“
Light:
“Yes. I bear no great love for Kingston, but he must be warned.”
Finniss:
“I’ll go at once.”
He exits quickly after Hindmarsh. Manners, genuinely shocked at the Governor’s outburst, turns to Light
Manners:
“Colonel ---“
Light:
“You must excuse His Excellency. He had been drinking.”
Manners:
“Fine behaviour for the Governor of a Colony!”
Light:“He holds that title but little longer, Sir.”
Manners:
“Hindmarsh?”
Light:“Today Kingston brought news of his recall. Now in his malice, he has no thought but retaliation.”
(Manners hesitates a moment, then puts out his hand, which Light takes)
Manners:
“Forgive me, Colonel.”
Light:
“I do not blame you, Sir.”
Manners:
“Your resignation will be a severe blow to the Colony. I only trust your new career will be as successful. But take care! You have made a bitter enemy!”
Light:“The Governor’s threats do not worry me. I have only one regret ---“
Manners:
“Yes?”
Light:“It is that Miss Linda should have been involved in this unhappy scene. I can only pray it will never occur again.”
Manners: (Grimly)
“I can promise you that much!”
Light:
“Such gossip, no matter how false, is not easily stifled ---“
Manners:
“There will be no further gossip.”
Light:
“How can you be so sure?”
Manners: (Slowly)
“Because my daughter is leaving this Colony ---“
Light:
“Leaving?”
Manners:
“She sails on the next vessel returning to England!”
(Linda, who has been listening quietly, suddenly cries out in surprise and anguish)
Linda:
“Papa --- no!”
Light:
“Sir, I beg of you! Anything but that! It is harsh --- unjust!”
Manners:
“It is inevitable!”
Light:
“There must be some other course ---“
Manners:
“There is none. And I have made it plain to Linda, time and time again, that this state of affairs cannot continue ---“
Linda:
“Papa ---“
(Manners turns to Linda, who stares back at him, stony-faced and pale. She says very slowly)
“If you do this to me, I shall hate you just as long as I live!”
Manners:
“Don’t talk like that!”
Linda:
“This is no idle talk, Papa! Surely you know me better than that!”
Manners:
“But we do this for your own good!”
Linda:
“You think it good to break my heart! To make me suffer?”(She turns away. Manners, his face grave, his voice gentle, goes to her)
Manners:
“Linda --- Linda, look at me ---“
(Slowly, she raises her head)
“Do you think this means nothing to us --- to your Mama --- to me? When our very lives have been built around your happiness --- is it so easy to send you away?”
Linda:“Yet you would do this --- willingly?”
Manners:
“Not willingly, Linda --- It takes courage to send away part of one’s own heart ---“
(His voice slows --- shadowed)
“And --- we shall be so very lonely ---“
Linda:
“Then why must you do it?”
Manners:“There is no other way!”
Linda turns away with a little moan of despair. Light, who has been following this exchange, speaks suddenly
Light:
I think there is.
(As they turn to him, he continues steadily)
“There is no need to involve four lives in a decision which concerns only two ---“
(He pauses and takes a breath)
“Sir --- I give you my solemn promise never to see or speak with Miss Linda again --- so long as I am in this Colony!”
(Sharply, Linda cries out)
Linda:
“Will --- no!”
Manners:
“Linda!”
Linda: (Steadily)“I will never keep to that decision --- never! It is asking too much!”
Manners: (Angrily)
“I ask you to consider your future!”
Linda:
“If I give up this happiness, there can be no future for me --- ever --- anywhere!”
Manners:
“But this man has a wife --- children ---“Linda: (It is a bitter cry, wrenched from her heart)
“Do you imagine I have forgotten that?”
Manners:
“And you would continue this hopeless alliance?”
Linda looks at him with gentle compassion. She says quietly
Linda:
“Not hopeless, papa ---“
(But Manners brushes this aside)
Manners:
“You talk like a child!”
Linda:
“No, Papa. I am a grown woman. And my life is my own --- I do not choose to see it grow sour and bitter. Then why not take what life offers – take it with both hands --- and live fully --- joyously ---“
Manners: (Bitterly)“And shamefully?”
Linda looks at him. She speaks very gently, but with infinite wisdom. For this is the whole vindication of her change of front
Linda:
“The years pass so swiftly. And --- when I am old --- who will remember such a little shame?”
(Manners looks at her for a long moment, then he walks to the door and pauses)
Manners: (Very quietly)
“Linda --- I want you to come home with me.”
(Linda shakes her head)
Linda: (Gently)
“My place is here. This is my home.”
Manners:
“And --- that is your last word?”
Linda:
“Yes.”
(Manners, bowed and defeated, turns to Light)
Manners:
“I can do no more, sir. The outcome is in your hands ---“
(He pauses and draws a deep breath)
“I ask you to remember one thing. We, also, love her very dearly.”
He exits. Linda watches him go. Then she turns to Light. Slowly, with infinite pity, he shakes his head
Light:
“Dearest Linda --- this is not the way.”
Linda:
“But, Will ---“
Light:
“We cannot build a happiness on dishonour --- on broken lives! You saw what this means to your father. There is your mother ---“
Linda: (Slowly)
“Mama ---“
Light:
“Oh, Linda --- love raised upon such suffering can never endure! And have you thought about yourself? When we have forfeited all respect --- all reputation --- what can shield us from the cruelty of the world?”
Linda:“Our love ---“
Light:
“In a world of contempt and derision? No, dearest. Love is a gentle and precious thing. It needs contentment and happiness to flourish! Like this, it can only wither and die ---“
Linda: (In anguish)
“No --- no ---“
She turns away with bowed head. Light picks up the shawl and places it gently across her shoulders
Light:
“Go home, Linda.”
Linda:
“Papa will send me away ---“
Light:
“No.”
Linda:
“You heard what he said ---“
Light:
“I will speak to your father.”
Linda:
“He will not listen.”
Light:
“I think he will. I shall explain to him that my first survey with the new company will be private land near Morphett Vale. With so many miles between us, not even the most ill-natured rumour can flourish.”
(Suddenly Linda buries her face in her hands. Light, his expression one of tender pain, says gently)
“Linda --- dearest heart ---“
(The he reaches out and takes her wet hands from her face)“Dearest one – only a few precious moments are left to us. Do not waste them so.”
Linda does not raise her head. She says brokenly, hopelessly
Linda:
“What is left but waste?”
Light:“Are you so blind?”
Linda:“Would that I were.”
(She raises her head. Her eyes tragic with grief)
“What can I see ahead of me? Only the bleak, barren years! Dawns without sunrise --- nights without end ---“
Light:
“And --- I have brought you to this?”
Linda:“Not you, Will! I chose my own path! My love was like some consuming fire, breaking all boundaries --- reckless --- leaping!”
(her voice slows)“And now --- what is left but despair?”
Light:
“No Linda.”
Linda:
“This love of ours --- what else has it given us?”
Light:“Something so great that I feel humble even to name it, Linda. It is called Achievement.”
Linda:
“Your work?”
Light:“Our work, dearest heart! Ours! Everything I am or hope to be! Everything I have done or will do! My future --- aye, my very life itself --- these things are yours!”
(Linda cannot hide the tears which flood to her eyes. As she turns her head away, Light says, almost in pain)
“Don’t Linda. You can be so strong --- so brave.”
Linda:
“Not now! It is I who need you ---“
Light puts out his arms, an instinctive gesture of comforting. Head up, eyes shining, Linda goes to him. Her arms slip around him. He holds her, hungrily, yet tender, and whispers
Light:
“Dear God! How I dreamed to hold you like this ---“
Linda raises her head, looking into his eyes. With the same hungry tenderness, Light kisses her passionately. His arms tighten around her. Then slowly Linda’s arms slip away from him. She gives a little sob, turns, and groping blindly, feels her way to the door. There she turns, gives Light as last long look. Then with a short, sobbing cry, she exits.
Light stands looking after her. He says slowly, and with infinite feeling)
Light:
“God take care of you, sweet Linda ---“
THE CURTAIN FALLS SLOWLY
Act three – Scene One.
LIVING ROOM OF THE MANNER’S HOME – Four months later.
Before the curtain rises, we hear the music of a Straus waltz. It continues to play. Then the curtain rises on the same scene we saw in Act One. The room is empty, and the window closed, the curtains drawn. The music is louder now, there is the sound of laughter and chatter offstage, and beyond the double doors we see waltzing couples, some of the men in dress uniform. The couples dance past the double doors, some even come through, twirl once or twice, then pass out again. The whole atmosphere is gay and youthful.
The waltz continues. It comes to an end with a clapping and a rustle of gowns. Presently, Amelia Orchard, prettily demure in her ball dress, trips daintily into the room. She looks around for a moment, then running across to the left window, slips behind the long curtains and adjusts them to conceal herself. But she is careful to allow one tiny foot to peep out…
Two young men, in resplendent uniform of the new Governor’s aides-de-camp, enter, right. They stare around the room, surprised at finding it empty Both are good-looking, young, fresh-faced Englishmen.
Herbert:
“Well! I’ll swear the wench came in here!”
Algernon:
“Bertie ---“
Herbert:
“Yes?”
Algernon:“Don’t you ever thing of anything besides women?”
Herbert:“Don’t you?”
Algernon:“No!”
(They both chuckle and settle themselves down)
Herbert:
“Times like this, I realise that our appointment has its brighter side ---“
Algernon:
“Still on the petticoats?”
Herbert:
“Drat you, no! Though, to be sure, an angel like the Orchard wench was the las thing I expected to find here!”Algernon:
“That’s true. When I told the boys at the Club I’d been appointed to Gawler’s staff, they said there was nothing but black bread in the Colony!”
(There is a pause, then)“What do you think of the Manners woman, Bertie?”
Herbert:
“Mama?”
Algernon:“No. The daughter – Linda.”
Herbert:
“Not interested.”
Algernon:
“No?”
Herbert:
“I don’t like these frozen beauties with their ‘hands off-me, sirrah’ attitude! Like trying to kiss an iceberg!”
Algernon:
“They do say that the most dangerous part of an ice-berg is always kept concealed! And from what I hear, Miss Linda’s ‘hands-off-me’ attitude doesn’t apply to everyone!”
Herbert:
“No?”
Algernon:“She was mixed up in a pretty scandal some months ago – with a married man, too! Papa had to put his foot down very firmly!”
Herbert: (Languidly)
“Who was the chap?”
Algernon:“Used to be head of the survey department. Rowed with Hindmarsh and resigned. Does private work now.”
Herbert:
“Not William Light?”Algernon:
“That’s the man!”
(Herbert waves the suggestion away)
Herbert:
“Algy, old boy --- someone’s been pulling your leg!”
Algernon:“Why?”
Herbert:“The Pater knew Light in London! He’s one of the upper ten! Friend of the Duke of Wellington – guest of the Price Regent ---“
Algernon:
“What of it? He’s still a man, isn’t he?”
Herbert:“But he’s married to one of the Duke of Richmond’s daughters ---“
Algernon:
“She’s twelve thousand miles away! Miss Linda is right here on the spot!”
(Herbert rises)Herbert:
“I don’t believe a single word of it!”
Algernon:
“All right! Ask Charles Orchard!”(Herbert turns)
Herbert:
“Orchard?”
Algernon:“He told me.”
Herbert:
“God spare me, Algy! Surely you haven’t been listening to him! That fellow has the most venomous tongue in the entire Colony!”
(The curtain twitches, reminiscent of an angry kitten’s tail)
Algernon: (Shrugging)
“Oh, I admit he’s a malicious old windbag! But there’s no smoke without fire, you know!”
Herbert:
“Orchard would make smoke, for the sheer joy if causing trouble! Personally, I can’t stand the fellow’s loud-mouth arrogance ---“
Amelia: (Outraged)
“Oh ---!”
She flings aside the curtain and stands rigid with anger. The two young men wheel, see her and stand petrified with horror. It is Herbert who recovers first. He gasps, swallows ---
Herbert:
“Miss Amelia ---“
Amelia:
“How dare you address me, sir! How dare you?”
Algernon:“Dear sweet creature ---“
Amelia:
“So ---! My kind noble Papa is a malicious old windbag? Oh --- shame ---shame!”
Herbert:
“My companion spoke in haste! I tried to restrain him ---“
Amelia:
“By naming my Papa with the most venomous tongue in the Colony!”
(As Herbert gulps)
“Do not deny it, sir! I heard you!”
Herbert:
“How were we to know you were behind that curtain?”
Algernon:“And what were you doing there?”
Amelia looks at them frigidly. And frigid is her tone when she replies
Amelia:
“When two young gentlemen seek a lady’s company, they should at least make an effort to find her!”
And now Herbert is seized with a sudden inspiration. He smiles charmingly
Herbert:
“But we did!”
Amelia:“What do you mean, sir?”
Herbert:“Sweet Miss Amelia – surely you don’t imagine those unkind remarks about your dear Papa were to be taken seriously?”
Amelia:“Then why were they made?”
Herbert:
“To bring you from your hiding-place, sweet puss!”
(He turns to Algernon and bestows on that gentleman and broad wink)
“Isn’t that so, Algy?”
Algernon:
“Of course – of course!”
(Herbert turns back to Amelia)
Herbert:
“We craved your company! Yet you had hidden yourself so securely! What could we do?”
Algernon:“We propounded this simple ruse, knowing well it could be explained!”
Amelia looks from one to another, knowing them well for charming plausible liars. But they are so handsome and they promise such fun --- A demure smile hovers about her lips. She drops her dead demurely
Amelia:
“It was a cruel trick ---“
Algernon:
“We apologise!”
Herbert:
“From the bottom of our hearts!”Amelia: (Coyly)
“I am such a simple child, unused to the clever wiles of London society. You must not confused me with one of your grand ladies ---“
Algernon:
“That would be impossible!”
Amelia:
“Oh?”
Herbert:“For you are ever so much prettier, graceful and more charming!”
Amelia: (Smiling)“Flatterer!”
Mrs. Orchard and her husband with George Stevenson come into the room from right. Mrs. Orchard sees her daughter
Mrs. Orchard:
“So there you are!”
Amelia: (Without enthusiasm)
“Yes, Mama.”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Whatever are you doing in here?”
Amelia:
“The waltz fatigued me. I came in here to rest ---“
(Mrs. Orchard allows her gaze to rest on the young men for a brief moment)
Mrs. Orchard:
“I don’t think I know your friends, child ---“
(Orchard comes forward, strutting with importance)
Orchard:
“These young men are attached to Gawler’s staff, Emily. Captain Herbert Fyffe-Lomax. Captain Algernon D’Crepney.”
Herbert: (Bowing)
“Your servant, mam ---“
Algernon: (Bowing)
“An honour, mam ---“
Mrs. Orchard smiles at their gallantry. Then, offstage, the music of a waltz begins. Herbert turns to Amelia
Herbert:
“May I have the honour?”
Algernon:“Please! I insist!”
Amelia:“Two strings to my bow! Mama --- what shall I do?”
Mrs. Orchard:“Select the young gentleman who asked you first.”
Amelia:
“But Captain Algernon ---“
Mrs. Orchard:
“He shall have the next dance with you.”Orchard:
“Now now, young people --- run along ---“
Herbert makes a bow to Amelia, who drops him a curtsey. He puts out his arms. Together they swing into the waltz, circle the room and dance out through the right hand door, Algernon following them out, closes the doors behind him, muting the music. Mrs. Orchard drops into a chair
Mrs. Orchard:
“The ball seems quite a success.”
Stevenson: (With a sneer)
“Dear lady, could you expect otherwise? With the new Governor as a guest of honor?”
Orchard:
“What time is the Governor due to arrive?”
Stevenson:“Very soon, I should say.”
(Orchard, in the act of lighting a cigar, looks up)
Orchard:
“Shrewd move on Manners’ part --- setting himself cosily in Gawler’s pocket!”
Stevenson:
“Talking of Gawler’s pocket ---“
Orchard:
“Yes?”
Stevenson:“I happen to know that it’s almost empty! He’s almost spent the £12, 000 allowed to restore this Colony ---“
Mrs. Orchard:“But he’s only been here three months!”
Stevenson:“That’s right.”
Mrs. Orchard:“Whatever will he do?”
Stevenson:“He’s talking about getting a crowd of emancipists from Tasmania to do the work of the laborers ---“
(Orchard wheels roung abruptly, his cigar truculent)
Orchard:
“Good God! The man’s mad!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“Charles!”
Orchard:
“What does Gawler aim to do? Turn this Colony into a convict settlement like New South Wales?”
Mrs. Orchard: (Timidly)“It isn’t quite the same ---“
(Orchard turns on her belligerently, pointing with his finger)
Orchard:
“You just wait and see! Once a criminal – always a criminal, I say!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“But Governor Macquarie ---“
Orchard:
“A sentimental fool! And we want none of his dangerous experiments over here! Emancipists! Good God! Next thing he’ll be bringing the Russians!”
Stevenson:
“I agree with you, Orchard. But in this scheme, Gawler has Captain Sturt behind him.”Orchard:
“The New South Welshman? What’s he doing over here?”
Stevenson:“Running a newspaper keeps your ear pretty close to the ground! Don’t be at all surprised if Gawler offers Sturt the post of surveyor-general!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“But what about Mr. Kingston?”
Orchard:“Kingston! Since he took over, there isn’t a survey department worth speaking of! Look what he did after Light’s resignation! Disregarded the Commissioners’ orders and continued Light’s trigonometrical survey --- with all its costly delays! Just going from bad to worse!”
Mrs. Orchard:
“I believe the Colonel is away on a country survey ---?”Orchard:
“He made it his business to be!”
Mrs. Orchard:“Why?”
Orchard:
“To save these people the embarrassment of refusing him an invitation tonight!”
Mrs. Orchard:“That old scandal?”
Orchard:“Yes --- they’re beginning to hope it’s forgotten ---“
Mrs. Orchard: (Sharply)“Ssssh!”
Linda has entered left. She pauses in the doorway, a little disconcerted to find the room occupied. She is beautifully gowned, but thinner --- and there are the faintest of shadows under her eyes. She is calm, poised, elegant as ever, but all the warmth and animation have drained from her. She says very quietly
Linda:
“I beg your pardon ---“
(Mrs. Orchard rises)
Mrs. Orchard:
“Come in, my dear. We are just going.”
Linda:
“Do not let me disturb you ---“
Mrs. Orchard:
“We have been very rude staying away so long --- Come, Charles ---“
Stevenson has advanced to the right hand door. He throws them open. The three people exit. Linda crosses and closes the doors behind them. She comes down centre and stands, pressing her hands to her temples. Then, crossing to the window, she stands looking out into the night. Her attitude is of anticipation, tinged with highly strung weariness. She turns away, and with hands clasped, begins to pace the room.
Finniss enters left. Linda wheels and comes down to him
Linda:
“I thought you were never coming!”
Finniss:“I arrived back only a few hours ago ---“
Linda:
“How is he?”
Finniss:
“Sit down, Miss Linda.”
(She gives an impatient shake of her head)
Linda:
“Never mind about me, Travers. How is he?”
Finniss: (Slowly)“Not at all well ---“
Linda:
“Oh ---“
(It is little more than a breath. She sinks into a chair and clasps her hands together)
“How does he look?”
Finniss:“The months have made little difference. He is thinner – greyer – a trifle more bowed! But his fire is not yet quenched. He is still courageous – resolute!”
Linda:“I must go to him!”
Finniss:
“It would be useless ---“
Linda:
“No! He needs me!”Finniss:
“He has given his solemn word never to see you again. And it would be cruel! He suffers enough ---“
Linda: (Piteously)
“Think you I know not how he suffers!”
(She rises and, hands clasped, begins to pace the floor. Suddenly she turns)“Why did you let him go away this time?”
Finniss:“He insisted on going.”
Linda:
“But if he is so sick ---“
Finniss:
“Had he been there, his absence from the ball would have revived the old gossip.”
Linda:
“But Papa has long forgiven him ---“
Finniss goes to her. He says very gently
Finniss:
“Miss Linda – it is not of your father he thinks, but of you ---“
Linda:
“Yes?”
Finniss:
”Never for one instant are you out of his thoughts! Each time I go back, he hungers after every crumb! The words you spoke – the gown you wore – the way you look … and as I talk, I can see the old light flood back into his face!”
Linda:
“What would I give to see it, too!”
(She moves restlessly to the chair and sits down)
“Tell me more about him! How does he spend his time?”
Finniss:
“Every spare minute he has is taken up with writing.”
Linda:
“His defence?”
Finniss:“Yes --- for the Commissioners. Another few weeks should see its conclusion.”
Linda:
“But he is not working too hard?”
Finniss:“How can we stop him? He lives for nothing save the clearing of his name! It is his final goal – his burning ambition! And he writes furiously – frantically – far into the night, almost as though ---“
Linda:
“As though what?”
Finniss: (Quietly)“As though he realises he is working against time ---“
Linda: (Pitifully anxious)
“He will burn out what little strength he has!”
Finniss:“So we tell him. But it is useless! He has even taken some of this manuscript on the survey journey with him ---“
Linda:
“But the rest of it?”
Finniss:“Locked in a sea-chest in the Colonel’s cottage. He feels it is safest there.”
Linda:“I suppose so ---“
Finniss: (Smiling)
“Do no worry, Miss Linda ---“
Linda:“But if anything were to happen to it ---“
Finniss:
“He would never survive the blow. For that very reason I visit the cottage every morning.”
Linda:
“The chest is sealed?”
Finniss:
“With one of the strongest locks in the Colony! Not that I fear thieves --- the contents are valueless to anyone save the Colonel.”
Linda rises and begins to pace the floor again. Suddenly she turns
Linda:
“Travers ---“
Finniss:
“Yes?”
Linda:“Will you do something for me?”
Finniss:“Of course.”
Linda:
“This chest – is it heavy?”
Finniss: (Puzzled)
“No ---“
Linda:
“Then you could carry it --- alone?”
Finniss:”Of course.”
Linda:
“I want you to bring it up here tonight!”
Finniss:
“The chest?”
Linda:“Yes! To leave it in an unprotected cottage is madness! It is like risking the Colonel’s own life!”
Finniss:
“But surely ---“
Linda:
“Had I Known of this before, I would never have left it there for a single night! We must get it here where it is safe!”
Finniss:“And your parents ---?”
Linda:“I will get mama’s consent.”
(Finniss hesitates a second, then nods)
Finniss:
“Very well. I’ll bring it from the cottage myself. And now I must go back. Keep up your courage, Miss Linda ---“Linda: (Taking his hand)
“You’re a very good friend, Travers ---“
He exits through left hand door. Linda stands watching him go. Then she smiles a little, a gentle smile as though recalling a part of their conversation. Mrs. Manners enters right. She is fashionably dressed, but about her manner is a certain anxiety that she strives to cover with a smile
Mrs. Manners:
“Linda, dear ---“
Linda:
“His Excellency has arrived?”
Mrs. Manners:“Not yet. But he is on his way ---“
Linda:
“Isn’t it rather late?”
Mrs. Manners:
“It seems he was delayed --- there was some small disturbance. They had to call out the Militia.”
Linda:
“What was it?”
Mrs. Manners: (Evasively)“We’ll know soon enough.”
(Abruptly, she changes the conversation)
“Come child --- your father is waiting in the ballroom ---“
(She begins to walk out of the room, but Linda restrains her)
Linda:
“Mama --- before we go ---“Mrs. Manners (Turning)
“Yes?”
Linda:“Would you mind if I kept a chest in my bedroom?”
Mrs. Manners:“A chest?”
Linda:“It belongs to Colonel Light, Mama. It contains property so valuable that it is reckless to leave it unprotected in his cottage ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“Linda!”
(She stares at her daughter for a moment, her face reflecting her dismay. Then she recovers herself)“We will talk about it later! Come now ---“
(But Linda blocks her way)
Linda:
“Mama! What is it?”
Mrs. Manners:“Come, child ---“
Linda:
“Why did you cry out like that? What has happened?”
Mrs. Manners:“Nothing ---“
(Linda takes hold of her mother and almost shakes her in her impatience)
Linda:
“Mama – what are you keeping from me? Tell me! Mama --- look at me! What is it?”
(Mrs. Manners says slowly)Mrs. Manners:
“We wanted to spare you --- tonight ---“
Linda:
“Spare me? Why?”
Mrs. Manners:“Nothing can ever be recovered from the Colonel’s cottage ---“
(As Linda stares at her mother in horror)
“It was burnt to the ground --- every stick within its walls destroyed --- not ten minutes ago ---“
(Linda gives a soft wailing cry of despair)
“They called out the Militia in an attempt to save it. But it was too late.”
She breaks as Linda sways, half fainting, against her. She moans brokenly
Linda:
“No, mama --- not his manuscript ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“Linda ---“
Linda:
“It would be too cruel! He has born more than his share of misfortune ---“
Mrs. Manners: (Gently)
“These things are God’s will, Linda”
Linda:
“No --- God is merciful --- kind --- He does not punish unjustly --- He would not do this thing ---“
(Suddenly she fights to free herself from her mother’s arm)
“Let me go! I must go down there --- I must see ---“
Mrs. Manners:
“No, Linda --- it is too late ---“
Linda: (Struggling hysterically)
“The chest was saved --- I know it was! It must be! Let me go, mama --- let me go ---!”
She tears herself away from her mother and half falls into a chair, burying her face in her hands. At that moment, Manners enters quickly and importantly right, speaking as he comes
Manners:
“Gawler has arrived at last and ---“
(He stops, then)
“Linda! In heaven’s name ---!”
(His eyes fly to his wife’s face)
“You told her?”
Mrs. Manners:“I had to. Now she wants to run down there ---“
Linda:
“Papa --- I must!”
Manners:
“Linda --- child --- control yourself! The Governor is here! We want to present you ---“
Linda:
“No, Papa --- please --- not now! Ask His Excellency to excuse ---“
Voice: (Offstage – loud)
“His Excellency, Sir George Gawler!”
Immediately the strains of the National Anthem are heard. Manners and his wife stiffen to attention. Linda huddles miserably in her chair, oblivious to everything but her grief.
She looks up and becomes aware for the first time of the Anthem and rises unsteadily to her feet. She stands there, fighting to control herself, then suddenly she gives a strangled little cry, turns and runs through the double door and out into the ballroom
Manners: (Scandalised, cries sharply)
”Linda! Linda --- come back --- Linda!”
But the National Anthem swells to a triumphant finale as ---
THE CURTAIN FALLS QUICKLY.
Act three – Scene two.
THE SAME : some months later.
It is about eight-thirty on a mild night. A fire is burning in the fireplace. A chair is placed some little distance away, with a warm rug set over the back. The room is lit only by the glow of the fire and the light of the two candelabra on the mantelpiece.
When the curtain rises, Travers Finniss is standing near the fireplace, poking the blazing embers. The right door opens and Mrs. Manners enters. She looks strained, tired; but she smiles at Finniss and she comes in.
Mrs. Manners:
“I am so glad you could come over.”
Finniss:
“Nothing would have kept me away. Your housekeeper said it was about the Colonel.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Yes ---“
(Something in her tone causes Finniss to glance at her quickly)
Finniss:
“Worse?”
Mrs. Manners:
“I’m afraid so. Doctor Woodeford has been with him most of the afternoon.”
Finniss:“Is there much pain?”
Mrs. Manners:
“No. But his cough is much worse. Woodeford is worried because the heart is so weak ---“
(She shakes her head sadly)
“It’s cruel to see him now.”
Finniss: (Gently)
“You’ve both been wonderful! Heaven knows what the Colonel would have done if you hadn’t taken him in here!”
Mrs. Manners: (Simply)
“With the cottage burnt over his head, where else could he go?”
Finniss:“That was the tragedy that hastened his illness! To finish those records was Light’s one ambition.”
Mrs. Manners:
“I’m surprised he’s lingered so long ---“
Finniss:
“What does Woodeford say?”
Mrs. Manners: (Shrugging)“He admits he’s helpless. The cleverest doctor in all the world can do nothing for a man who has lost all desire to live!”
(She sinks into a chair and leaning back, closes her eyes)
Finniss:
“You must get some rest.”
Mrs. Manners:
“I’m all right ---“
Finniss:
“Remember what Mr. Manners said before he left ---“Mrs. Manners:
“Yes.”
Finniss:
“We promised to look after you. And night after night, you’ve been sitting up with the Colonel.”
Mrs. Manners:
“It’s Linda who has nursed him these past months.”
Finniss:
“I suppose Miss Linda is with him now?”
Mrs. Manners: (Nodding)“She dare not leave him in case anything should happen. When I left, Linda was sitting by the bed. Will had fallen asleep, holding her hand. She wouldn’t move in case it disturbed him.”
Finniss:
“He still knows her?”
Mrs. Manners:“Oh, yes! He knows us all. Except ---“
Finniss:“Except what?”
Mrs. Manners:“Just before he went to sleep, he made the strangest request.”
Finniss:“To Miss Linda?”
(Mrs. Manners nods)Mrs. Manners:
“Do you remember that night – a wild night almost two years ago when you came to dinner ---?”
Finniss:“With the Orchard couple? Yes, I remember.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Tonight, the Colonel asked Linda if she would wear the same gown.”
Finniss:
“Why?”
Mrs. Manners:
“I don’t know.”
There is a sombre pause. Then Finniss says hesitantly
Finniss:
“You don’t think he’s --- wandering ---?”
Mrs. Manners:“Indeed, no! To-day he seemed more alert and cheerful than he’s been for weeks!”
(There is a tap on the right door. It opens to admit the housekeeper)
“What is it, Dixon?”
Dixon:
“If you please, ma’am, the Colonel is awake.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Oh ---“
Dixon:
“He’s dressed, and he said he would like to come in and sit by the fire.”
(Mrs. Manners rises, but Finniss reading her intention, says quickly)
Finniss:
“No, no. I’ll bring him in.”
He exits with the housekeeper. Mrs. Manners pulls the chair nearer the fireplace and sets the rug preparatory to wrapping it round Light’s knees. She takes one set of candelabra from the mantel and places it on the piano. Then Finniss’ voice is heard offstage
Finniss:
“Just a few more steps old man ---“
He appears, supporting the invalid Light. The Colonel, weak and tottering, is marked with the final stages of consumption. His cheeks have fallen away and dark shadows emphasise his too-bright eyes. They reach the chair. Light, clad in dressing gown and slippers, is lowered into it, while Mrs. Manners adjusts the rug about his knees. Light relaxes, leans back with a sigh, then he smiles weakly at his friends
Light:
“Thank you, Finniss. I am beginning to realise how good it is to have a friendly arm to lean upon ---“
Finniss:
“Are you comfortable?”
Light:“Quite.”
Finniss:
“Then I have some good news for you ---“
(He takes from his pocket a folded document)
“Governor Gawler sends you his kindest regards. He also sends you this.”
Light:“Another dispatch?”
Finniss:
“Not this time. It is a copy of a letter His Excellency is sending on to the Commissioners in London.”
Light:“Then Gawler may save himself the trouble! I am finished with the Commissioners ---“
Finniss:
“But, Will ---“
Light:
“I never want to hear their names mentioned!”
Finniss: (Gently)
“Yet I think you should listen to this ---“
(He unfolds the document and reads quietly)
“….and there is one circumstance in Colonel Light’s official conduct which is becoming more and more apparent to his honour. That is the wisdom of his choice in regard to the site of the capital ….”
Mrs. Manners:
“Splendid!”
Finniss:
“….For the influence which that choice has made toward the rapid progress of the prosperity of the Province, his memory claims the warmest gratitude from every lover of South Australia.”
He folds the letter, and crossing to the mantel, puts it down. Light is staring into the fire
Light:
“So --- at last they begin to realise my worth --- when I am so near the end ---“
Finniss:
“What nonsense you talk, Will!”
Light:
“You think so?”
Finniss:“I’ll wager that a few months will see you squinting through a theodolite, chirpy as a junior surveyor!”
(Light raises his head, says gently)Light:
“You have an excellent bedside manner, Travers.”
Finniss:
“No ---“
Light:
“Please! It was wrong of me to say that. But I never lacked the courage to face --- the truth ---“
Finniss is silent, not knowing what to say. Mrs. Manners comes forward cheerfully
Mrs. Manners:
“Now, what shall it be tonight, Will? Would you like me to read to you? Or we can go on with your dictation?”
Light:
“I think I should prefer to sit quietly --- to talk ---“
Finniss:
“By the way, Will – I wish you could see your garden. The wattle trees have never looked more beautiful! Just a mass of bloom! And the perfume … It makes your head swim ---“
Light:
“Travers ---“
(His quiet voice cuts through his friend’s artificial chatter. He has been staring into the fire. At his name, Finniss stops abruptly. Light looks up)
“You don’t honestly think I’m ever going to get well again?”
Finniss:“But you must ---“
Mrs. Manners:“And we have all kinds of things planned for your recovery!”
Light:
“No --- Tonight I am going to ask you to make other plans. There is so little time left ---“
Finniss:
“Will ---“
Light:
“Please ---“
(He speaks with gentle impatience)
“Surely I can talk over these matters with you? Talk truthfully – without foolish pretence?”
Finniss:
“But you must never give up hope ---“
Light:
“I have done with hope. Therefore, I ask you one small thing.”
Finniss: (Nodding)
“Yes.”
Light:
“When I am gone, will you have placed under my hands a bronze tablet? And on that tablet the words engraved --- “The Founder of Adelaide” ---“
Finniss:
“I give you my word.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Anything you ask, Will ---“
Light:
“There is --- one more favour.”
Mrs. Manners:
“Yes?”
Light:“Linda will be coming to me soon. Could I see her --- alone?”
Mrs. Manners:
“Of course.”
Light:
“Then --- would you tell her?”
Mrs. Manners:“You will be quite all right?”
Light:“Yes --- yes ---“
Mrs. Manners rises, takes one set of candelabra and moves to right hand door. Finniss puts a comforting hand on his friend’s shoulder then crosses with her. The pair exit. The room is now lit only by the glow of the fire and the light of the candles on the piano.
Light, left alone, turns his head and looks around the room, a long searching slow look almost as though he knows he sees it for the last time. Then he smiles, relaxes, his head drops back, his eyes close …
Linda enters.
She stands just inside the right hand door, and, dressed as we saw her in the opening act, she has never looked more beautiful. All the warmth and radiance has flooded back into her face, but it is a warmth made gentle by tender pity. And as she stands there, Light, without moving, speaks softly
Light:
“Linda ---“
(She comes down and stands in front of him)
Linda:
“I thought you were sleeping.”
Light:
“Even so, I would know if you were near ---“
(Then he raises his head, opens his eyes. He whispers softly)
“Dear God ---“
(Linda spreads her dress and curtseys)
Linda:
“You like me, sir?”
Light:“Let me look at you --- standing there as I saw you on that night ---“
Linda:
“You remember so well.”Light:
“I have never forgotten an instant of it! Come closer, Linda – “
(She comes round behind his chair, laying her hands across his eyes. He relaxes with a sigh of comfort. His voice is soothed --- drowsy ---)
“How cool your hands are --- cool and soft --- they set me to dreaming, Linda ---“Linda:
“Yes?”
Light:“The dew on the lilacs in Maida Vale --- and the wet purple bluebells in St. John’s Wood ---“
Linda:
“All so far away now ---“Light:
“Are they? Dreams and memories and reality --- all so confused and yet --- so clear. The girls crying sweet lavender --- and the crossing sweepers by the little miniature shop near Leicester Square --- Do you know it, Linda?”
Linda:
“No ---“
Light:
“It was there I first met her --- she was having a miniature of herself painted --- she looked so lovely --- her bonnet had pink ribbons --- and her eyes were blue ---“
Linda: (Softly)
“Your wife …?”
Light:
“Where did we go wrong? Why was it suddenly all so --- ugly? It was in Paris I first noticed the difference --- we didn’t laugh so much ---“(Suddenly the fever grips him. His voice rises, high-pitched, rambling)
Mary --- what have I done? Only tell me! But she would never answer. She turned her face away. I thought --- if there were children --- but it made no difference ---“
His voice trails away. In the silence, Linda sooths his burning forehead. Then she says quietly
Linda:
“Try to rest, Will ---“
Light:
“One time we were happy --- so radiantly happy ---“
Linda:
“Yes?”
Light:“It was in Sicily, I think. I remember the sunshine --- the blue skies --- I wrote a little sonnet. Mary set it to music. It was late and the children were in bed. Mary and I were alone. She sat down at the piano and played it for me --- It was Mary as I had never known her before ---“
(Linda, suddenly realising, tightens her face in pain. She drops her hands from his eyes and turns away. Light cries out suddenly, like a frightened child)
“Mary --- oh my darling --- where are you?”
Linda drops on to the hassock at his feet and reaching up, takes his thin hands in her own. She says very gently
Linda:
“I am here, Will.”
His fingers tighten around her own. Then he opens his eyes, sees her and smiles weakly
Light:
“What have I been saying?”
Linda:
“Nothing, dearest.”
Light:
“It seems so strange to come back to this room. I was so far away. In the Palace Vetrionni. Remember the little statue in the pool, Linda?”
Linda: (Very gently)
“No ---“
Light:
“Yes --- we used to place garlands around it.”
Linda:
“I was never in Sicily, Will”
Light: (Like a child)
“No?”
Linda:
“It was someone else.”
(Light looks at her for a long second, then he turns his head away)
Light:
“Yes --- I remember now.”
Linda:
“You must try to rest ---“
Light:
“I had a long sleep this afternoon. I dreamt I was a child again, back in the wide fields near Theberton Hall. It was a Sunday and far down in the valley, I heard the bells of a little church ringing ---“
Linda:
“Yes?”
Light:
“And I could still hear those bells ringing after I had awakened. Soft they were, of exceeding sweetness. But I could hear them, Linda --- clearly --- for some seconds ---“
Linda:
“It was nothing but a dream ---“
Light:
“No, Linda ---“
(He speaks with intense simplicity)
“I know now. It was the bells of heaven I heard ringing for me.”
(Linda turns her head away, moved by his simple faith. Light says very gently)
“Linda --- sweet Linda. Don’t grieve for me --- I am going to be so happy ---“
Linda:
“Yes ---“
Light:
“For me there is peace ---“
Linda:
“And for me?”
Light:“Memories --- Look around this room ---“
Linda:
“So many memories here ---“
Light:
“Of a night wild with storm, when the rain splashed the window --- and a tired man drank a glass of wine before the fire ---“
Linda:“So long ago ---“
Light:
“You remember our song, Linda?”
Linda:“Every word!”
Light:
“Sing it for me, Linda.”
(Then, as she hesitates, he says gently)
“I will not go away until you’ve finished ---“
She rises and crossing to the piano, opens it and sits down. Light watching her, whispers
Light:
“Now the pain and anguish are forgotten. This is what I have prayed for, Linda ---“
He lies back, relaxed, quiet. Linda puts her hands to the piano and the sad little air steals gently through the silent room
Linda:
“I saw you on a blue Spring day
At dawn.
The little birds aflutter at your
Feet.
You smiled, and then the blue was turned
To gold ---
Because you smiled on me ---“
Abruptly Linda’s voice ceases and the piano notes jumble in a sharp dissonance. She wheels, tense with a sudden premonition, and looks at Light, who lies back in his chair, limp, relaxed, eyes closed, a faint smile about his lips. Linda says softly, fearfully
Linda:
“Will ---“
(Then sharply she cries)
“Will!”
But he makes no move. She rises swiftly from the piano and moves across to the chair. Almost fearfully she reaches out her hand and touches his face. Then she gives a sharp gasp of realisation and her hand drops away.
Slowly, she sinks to her knees. With bowed head, she whispers brokenly, but with infinite tenderness
Linda:
“I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love --- until he pleases ---“
THE CURTAIN FALLS SLOWLY.
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