This is Charles Klein and John Philip Sousa’s comic operetta El Capitan, transcribed and edited by Arthur O’Dwyer (2025).

The dialogue and stage directions are taken from Michael R. Jorgensen’s dissertation John Philip Sousa’s operetta El Capitan: A historical, analytical and performance guide (1996), which contains a libretto “transcribed from a barely legible photocopy of a photocopy” provided by Loras Schissel at the Library of Congress. Lyrics are as they appear in the piano/vocal score issued 1896 by the John Church Company.

Many small corrections, especially to punctuation, have been made quietly. Larger corrections, issues, and notes are marked in the text like this, with further details in the mouseover text.

The typographical presentation is inspired by Asimov’s Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan (1988).

See also El Capitan’s entry in Paul E. Bierley’s The Works of John Philip Sousa (1984), and Chapter 8 of John Philip Sousa’s Marching Along (1928).

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El Capitan

Book by Charles Klein

Lyrics by Tom Frost and John Philip Sousa

Music by John Philip Sousa

First produced at the Tremont Theatre in Boston on April 13, 1896

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Dramatis Personæ

Don Errico Medigua, recently appointed Viceroy of Peru
Señor Amabile Pozzo, Chamberlain etc etc
Dom Luiz Cazarro, the ex-Viceroy
Count Hernando Verrada, a Peruvian gentleman
Scaramba, an insurgent
General Herbana, Commander of the Spanish forces
Estrelda, Cazarro’s daughter
Princess Marghanza, Don Medigua’s wife
Isabel, Don Medigua’s daughter
Chorus of Spanish and Peruvian Ladies and Gentlemen, Soldiers, and Drummer Boys

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Act I

Scene.—Interior of the Viceregal Palace. Steps to a curtained arch up center. A large French window up right. As the curtain rises, a Chorus of Spanish ladies, gentlemen, and servants is discovered, playing at cards.

[Enter Princess Marghanza, followed by Isabel. They curtsey.]

[Enter Verrada.]

Marg. Some of the people have risen again. Dear me, these insurrections are becoming tiresome. [To Isabel] I warned your father that his continued avoidance of public appearances would lead to something serious.

Verr. And I, your Highness, have repeatedly begged his Excellency not to deny himself to the people.

Marg. He seems to deny himself to everyone, and deputizes that detestable Señor Pozzo to represent him in everything— to everybody— even to us.

Isab. It certainly is very annoying to have to ask Señor Pozzo’s permission every time you wish to see him.

Marg. [confidentially] I shouldn’t be surprised if it is he who is undermining Don Medigua to the people. [Aloud] Oh, I shall insist upon your father’s dismissing this double-faced wretch. I must remind him that it was my influence with His Majesty King Philip that secured him the Viceroyship of Peru.

Isab. I have heard that it was the King’s gratitude to Papa.

Marg. What gratitude did the King of Spain owe to your father?

Isab. Did he not make Your Highness his wife, and thus relieve— I mean, deprive— Madrid of your presence?

Marg. Child, is this your return for my having condescended to become a second parent to you?

Isab. Your Highness’s condescension is very evident.

[Commotion heard, off right. All rise to see the cause. Enter Pozzo, R., followed by Nevado, Montalba, and Scaramba, whom Pozzo tries to restrain as they enter. Chorus obviously disturbed at the condition of affairs. The men are dressed as soldiers. They are very gruff, especially Scaramba, who glares about in a most menacing manner. Pozzo is frightened.]

Pozzo [bowing low] Your Highness, these three gentlemen insist on seeing His Excellency. I endeavored to persuade them to the contrary, but I was outnumbered, and...

Marg. [haughtily] What is their errand?

Pozzo [aside] How majestically beautiful she is. [He sighs]

Marg. Who are they?

Scar. Who are we? [The trio laugh]

Nev. We are delegates...

Scar. Mounted delegates. Walking isn’t in our line.

Nev. We demand, on behalf of Don Cazarro, the immediate abdication of the present incumbent—

Scar. Yes, and he’d better be quick about it.

[Marghanza rises haughtily. Pozzo tenderly restrains her.

Pozzo Your Highness—for my sake—restrain yourself.

[Marghanza indignantly motions him away. Montalba tries to restrain Scaramba. Business.]

Scar. [in disgust] You fellows are too easy. You’ll find that El Capitán will have no such scruples when he comes.

Marg. [to Pozzo] Inform His Excellency, Don Medigua, that these persons crave an audience.

Scar. We crave nothing. What we demand is: this palace and its contents, the keys of the Council Chamber, and Don Medigua’s perpetual absence from Peruvian soil. Or his interment in it.

Mont. and Nev. [restraining him] Patience, patience.

Scar. [retiring upstage, in disgust] Patience! Oh, you ought to have El Capitán to deal with. The whole palace would have been blown up by this time.

Marg. [to Pozzo] Go.

Pozzo [aside] How lovely she is in her anger. [Aloud] Your Highness, I retire with an inward conviction that my minutes are numbered. [Aside] This message will be my ante mortem statement.

[Exit Pozzo, through the arch. Delegates retire upstage right, frightening the Chorus.]

Isab. Who is that dreadful person of whom they speak?

Verr. A professional bravo whose name is in everybody’s mouth, known as El Capitán. The hero of the Barcelona massacre. His only virtue, according to reports, is an infinite capacity for wholesale slaughter. According to all accounts he must be a most bloodthirsty man.

Isab. [frightened] And he is here to fight against Papa?

Verr. He is expected daily. Indeed, there was a report circulated this morning that he has already landed and is on his way here.

Isab. Oh, why did we leave Madrid?

[Enter Pozzo, timidly.]

Pozzo His Excellency begs that you will excuse him— and accept me. You may hand me your petition and I’ll—

[Business between Pozzo and Scaramba, who threatens him with his sword.]

Scar. You’ll— You’ll nothing. Did you tell him that we wanted to see him?

Pozzo I did.

Scar. Then by San Salvador...

Marg. [rising] Stop. These creatures evidently forget our royal presence. Señor Pozzo, arrest them at once.

Pozzo [frightened] Your Highness, I would lay down my last drop of life’s blood for you, but His Excellency instructed me to be sure and use no violence.

Scar. Violence, Montalba! Violence!

Mont. [restraining him] Scaramba, let us retire and inform Don Cazarro that he is defied.

Pozzo No, no— not defied— referred to a committee. [Aside, to Marghanza] The military has deserted us. We are powerless.

Marg. Coward. [To Nevado] Tell Don Cazarro that he shall be imprisoned at sunset. [The delegates laugh boisterously]

Pozzo No, no. Everything must be settled amicably.

Marg. Oh, why is not Don Medigua here to punish these men for their insolence?

Pozzo Gentlemen, if you will call again, later on...

Scar. Oh, we’ll call again—you can rely on that.

Nev. Come, Montalba. Come, Scaramba. These people either cannot or will not understand that Don Medigua is no longer recognized as Viceroy.

Scar. Your Highness will pardon our inability to stay and dine with you. [To Pozzo] Just wait until El Capitán gets you into his clutches—he’ll make but one mouthful of you—and if he doesn’t, I will.

Pozzo [visibly puzzled] El Capitán?

[Exit Scaramba, Montalba, and Nevado, R. Pozzo watches them off, then goes up and calls offstage through the arch.]

Pozzo Your Excellency! Your Excellency! They have gone.

[Chorus are arranged up and down stage awaiting the Viceroy. Don Medigua peers nervously through the curtains of the arch.]

Don Med. [peering through curtains] Are you sure they’ve quite gone, Pozzo? [Pozzo bows. Don Medigua comes down nervously, carrying a trunk, which he leaves on the steps] Then let them beware how they beard the lion in his den.

Don Med. My friends, should our worst fears be realized, even our humble abode may be endangered.

Marg. We will defend it with our lives.

Don Med. Yes, that will read very well on the record; but we don’t do anything of the sort.

Marg. They can but kill us.

Don Med. Precisely—and that’s just what I draw the line at.

Isab. I am not afraid, Papa.

Don Med. Neither am I. In fact, I rather enjoy the excitement. At the same time, if a very strong pressure were brought to bear, I think we might be influenced to make our escape while there is an opportunity. [Points] Friends, that route leads to the Limatamba highway. Far be it from me to suggest such a thing, but it is our duty to ourselves and to posterity to prolong our lives as long as possible.

One of Chorus. Let us escape while we can!

Marg. Errico... [Pointing to Chorus, who are all struggling to exit as quickly as possible]

Don Med. Pozzo, see them as far as the gate. [Valise business. Exeunt Chorus]

Marg. And this is Don Medigua, the husband of a princess of the royal blood!

Don Med. The princess of the royal blood has just fifteen minutes to pack the royal trunk and take her royal departure, for allow me to officially inform the princess that I am no longer the people’s idol. The office of Viceroy is obsolete, so far as I am concerned.

Isab. Are you going to allow these insurgents to drive us away?

Don Med. You can thank your mother. In order to comply with His Majesty’s demands of the treasury, and pay the princess’ infernally extravagant bills, I have been compelled to tax the people— or, Pozzo has— and now the people are making attacks on me. [Begins putting valuables into his trunk]

Verr. Your Excellency, the people have never seen you, and—

Don Med. And that accounts for my excellent state of preservation. Whenever the people wanted to see anyone, they saw my representative, Pozzo. If they have any complaints to make, or any assignations to perpetrate, they can see him now. In a case of this sort, I prefer to be the power behind the throne—not the power in it. [Continues packing]

Pozzo Your Excellency can rely on me to be firm with the rascals.

Don Med. And you can rely on the most poetic epitaph ever chiseled in stone. I’ll compose it myself. But you must try pacific measures at first. If they fail—the epitaph is yours. [Bravely] And my duty will be clear.

Marg. Spoken like our husband. You will meet this Don Cazarro on the field of battle.

Don Med. If Cazarro really means to fight, I shall let him try it on Pozzo. Then, if it results disastrously for Pozzo, my generalship in taking a back seat will be apparent to everyone. [Aside] Except Pozzo.

Verr. Your friends will rally around you.

Don Med. Let them rally. I shall not be there to prevent them. But did you observe how they rallied just now?

Marg. Don Medigua, this weakness ill comports—

Don Med. Never mind how it comports. I may be a little weak in the knees, but my health is otherwise quite sound, thank you. Oh, why did I get into politics? I begged His Majesty not to turn an office-holder out before his time was up. It invariably creates an unpleasant atmosphere for the newcomer. [Resumes packing]

Pozzo [tenderly kissing Marg.’s hand] Your Highness is right. If His Excellency had attended the Council Chamber in person, he might have created an enthusiasm—

Don Med. Yes— among my assassins. Don’t you know there are shooting-clubs organized especially to hurry along my resignation? Do you suppose I am anxious to shine as a bulls-eye? Well, I guess not!

Marg. [rising indignantly] Don Medigua, are you not going to quell this uprising?

Don Med. My dear, the fact that my life is heavily insured seems to make you perfectly oblivious to the risk I run. I propose to postpone the collection of that insurance money as long as I can. Besides, insurrections are distinctly Pozzo’s department. I never interfere with my Senate.

Marg. Don Medigua, you have forfeited all claim to our further consideration. Come, Isabel, we will face these insurgents alone.

Isab. Papa, I beg—

Don Med. Child, I am adamant. As a student of nature you should know that self-preservation is its first law. I have more respect for it than all the rest put together. [Exit Marghanza and Isabel] Her ambition will erect a monument over me yet.

Verr. [earnestly] I presume Your Excellency is aware that both the state and the native military are supporting Cazarro?

Don Med. Yes, I know all about it. I’m afraid, Pozzo, you’re going to have a peck of trouble.

Pozzo [surprised] I?

Don Med. [deliberately] Well, it won’t be I. I’ve got a scheme. [Hesitates] Gentlemen, you will not betray me if I lay bare the innermost secrets of my soul?

Verr. and Pozzo I promise.

Don Med. [to Pozzo] I want you to swear. Your promise has no market value with me.

Pozzo I swear.

Don Med. Then let me inform you that, in order to preserve my incognito—and, I may add, my life—I intend to become a follower of Cazarro.

Verr. and Pozzo You?

Don Med. I shall breathe insurrection at every pore. Rebellion shall ooze from me at every step—that is, Cazarro and his mob will think it does.

Verr. I don’t understand.

Don Med. Before I left Spain I heard that Cazarro intended to regain the Viceroyship at all hazards. I determined they shouldn’t catch me napping. I allowed Pozzo to do the napping whilst I— well— you have heard of El Capitán?

Pozzo [shuddering] Those fearful delegates mentioned him just now.

Verr. I understand he is the most bloodthirsty man who ever lived.

Don Med. Or died.

Pozzo [in astonishment] Dead! El Capitán dead?

Don Med. As dead as the proverbial doornail. Hark ye! Coming over from Spain, one of my men was killed in a brawl. In looking over his effects I discovered that he was none other than El Capitán, the redoubtable fighter, a paid spy in the service of Cazarro, then on his way to join the insurgents. I need not tell you that I read his funeral services myself— and dropped him overboard without any reasonable delay.

Verr. But they are expecting his arrival. I heard Scaramba say he had already landed and was on his way here.

Don Med. Yes. I spread that report myself. Oh, El Capitán shall not disappoint them—I’ll take care of that.

Pozzo Didn’t you say he was dead? [Shakes hands with himself]

Don Med. So he is; but I’m not. I intend to join the insurgents as El Capitán. That is why I’ve been building his stock as a fighter until everybody is crazy to see him. His reputation is something enormous; but everything you’ve heard about him emanates from me. When it comes to sounding my own praises, I flatter myself I can blow a slide trombone with the best of them.

Verr. And you intend to join Cazarro as El Capitán?

Don Med. As the real El Capitán has gone to join the devil, I do.

Verr. You may be recognized.

Pozzo Yes, yes, yes!

Don Med. No, no, no. No one knows me but a few of my followers. The insurrection was well under way when I arrived at Peru, and I allowed that— [indicating Pozzo] to represent me in everything. They may recognize it, but not me. [Shakes hands with himself]

Pozzo You, an insurgent? Dear, dear, what will become of you?

Don Med. If the insurgents win, as El Capitán I shall come in for a share of the spoils. If they lose, as the Viceroy I shall hang the ringleaders. It all depends on General Herbana, to whom Pozzo has dispatched messengers for aid.

Pozzo In the meantime, Your Excellency, what will become of me?

Don Med. That just worries me to death! Oh, you go on enjoying yourself as you are, for the present. If anyone inquires for me, just say I’ve gone on a vacation. [Picks up his bag]

Pozzo [doubtfully] Your Excellency, I would lay down my life for you—

Don Med. Well, you’ll probably have a chance. I think I can see a large, fat opportunity opening up for you in that direction. Ah, Pozzo, you always were a lucky dog. [Shouts are heard in the distance] What’s that?

[All listen intently. The noise grows louder, as if a mob were approaching.]

Pozzo It sounds like voices.

Don Med. [nervously] Many voices?

Verr. [going to the window] A great many, I should say.

Don Med. Th—the more the merrier.

Verr. [at window] There they are, coming round the Rimac Plaza—the insurgents. [Draws his sword]

Don Med. Put up that sword. Do you want us to butchered alive? [Terrific knocking offstage] Verrada, look after the women. If the worst comes to the worst, I can protect myself. [Exit Verrada, up right] Pozzo, tell them they’ve disgraced themselves; but avoid force while you have breath left in your body.

[A stone crashes through the window. Pozzo exits hastily, left. Crash offstage. Two or three Peruvian soldiers appear at the window.]

Don Med. I shall not stay here to be insulted. [Exits hastily, left]

[The window is now completely smashed to pieces, and insurgents pour in. Some have lanterns. The Chorus now consists of Peruvian soldiers, light copper-colored natives, ministers of the Council, townspeople, etc. Then enter Peruvian drummer girls, followed by Cazarro and Estrelda, who waves a short broadsword. All cheer as she enters.]

Caz. Good people, Don Medigua as usual is invisible. He has evidently fled. Still, he may be hiding. Nevado, have your men search the palace and, if found, bring him to us at once.

[Nev. instructs soldiers; exeunt Nev. and Soldiers upstage.]

Caz. Montalba, give me the warrant for his incarceration. [Montalba hands Cazarro a document. Cazarro reads it] “Don Medigua— violation of the constitution”— good. I’ll execute it myself.

Estr. Will you not wait till the noble Capitán arrives?

Caz. The noble Capitán is evidently not coming. I wish you wouldn’t concern yourself so much about him. His services are absolutely unnecessary now.

Estr. But did you not send word to him to come—that you need his aid?

Caz. I’m sorry I did, now. [Aside] If anything should have happened to him! [Aloud, to Chorus] My friends, everything must be done in a strictly legal manner. My attorney advises me that His Majesty King Philip of Spain, in order to appoint his favorite, Don Medigua, to rule over us as Viceroy, has illegally, unlawfully, and unconstitutionally removed me from my legal and lawful position. We shall now legally and lawfully try him and, if possible, legally and lawfully hang him.

[Shouts of approval. Enter Marg. and Isab.]

Marg. What is the meaning of this unseemly gathering? Disperse at once or our husband shall vent his Viceroyal displeasure on your unruly heads. [All laugh] How dare you invade the sanctity of our palace? Who are you?

Caz. [to Estr.] Tell her who we are, Estrelda. I’ve left my kid gloves at home, and I’m liable to be extremely forcible.

Marg. Such temerity brings the blush of mortification to our royal cheek.

Estr. Then at last do I behold a royal flush!

Caz. Will you suggest to the lady that we’ve had enough of the royal cheek? We want Medigua. Where is he?

Isab. Gentlemen, my father is—

Marg. Child, do not allow your plebeian origin to betray you into a weakness unworthy of the step-daughter of a Princess. Further discussion with these people is impossible.

[Exit Marghanza]

Isab. Poor Papa! I tremble for you.

[Exit Isabel]

[Enter Montalba and Scaramba]

Scar. It is he, I tell you. It is the great and only he.

Caz. The great and only who?

Scar. El Capitán. The bold and boisterous borderer of Barcelona.

Estr. Be still, my beating heart—the hero of my dreams approaches!

Scar. Here he comes. Hurrah for El Capitán!

All Hurrah!

Caz. [aside] That man’s popularity threatens to overshadow mine. I must take steps to prevent that.

Estr. Hurrah for El Capitán!

Caz. [seeing Estrelda’s enthusiasm] Ha! Estrelda— she shall bind him to me with chains of love. So be it—Hurrah for El Capitán!

All Hurrah!

Caz. We expected you before.

Don Med. I should have been here, had I not a previous engagement to overthrow the dynasty of Baluchistan.

Caz. And you were successful?

Don Med. Eminently so. As a throne-disturber it is generally conceded that 2:05¼ is my average gait. But where is Don Medigua? Let me gloat over him. I promise I will limit myself to gloating.

Caz. My men have not found him yet.

Don Med. Just one gloat.

Caz. You know this man Medigua?

Don Med. [aside] I do—to my sorrow. [Aloud] When he married the Princess Marghanza, he did me a bad turn.

Caz. The coward has never dared to show his face in public, so is unknown to us. But we’ll find him.

Estr. [taking Don Medigua’s hand and kissing it with reverential awe] Noble warrior! [She kneels. Scaramba watches this scene with jealousy]

Don Med. Thanks. Rise, gentle maiden. [Aside] What a walkover this would be— if I wasn’t married.

Estr. Oh, sir, I have long cherished this blissful moment.

Don Med. Dear me, have you really? I may be mistaken, but it seems to me that we have only just met.

Estr. Nay, my dreams have pictured you many, many times.

Don Med. [aside] She must be troubled with nightmares.

Estr. And now that you are here we must never, never part again.

Don Med. [aside] This is very embarrassing. [Aloud] Say, what is there about me that makes such an unfortunate hit with you?

Estr. The stories of your valor that daily reached my ear. The History of your life wherein is recited the hundred battles—

Don Med. Never mind the details. [Aside] Cast thy lies upon the waters and verily they shall return to smite you with a cold and icy thud.

Estr. I know the history of your achievements by heart. Ah, the great King Arthur has done no greater deed than El Capitán! [Takes his hand]

Don Med. Well, I should say he hadn’t! [Aside] And I published that boomerang record myself.

Caz. [watching them] They were made for each other.

Scar. [also watching them; aside] That won’t do. [Aloud] Señorita, the noble Capitán is weary and perhaps would rest.

Estr. [as if waking from a dream] Ah, Scaramba, I forgot you were here. [To Don Medigua] Let me bring you some wine. [Goes upstage]

Don Med. Thanks, no—I—I’m not thirsty. [Scaramba approaches him]

Scar. [aside to Don Med.] Capitán, I love her. One brave man respects the rights of another—you understand? If you want her, you must fight for her.

Don Med. But I—I don’t. I am a brave man and I respect your rights. Take her.

Scar. You have met before, eh?

Don Med. Only in a dream.

Scar. Whose dream?

Don Med. Well, as I have no recollection of the affair myself, it must have been her dream. It wasn’t mine.

Scar. She can talk of no one but you. She can think of no one but you. I am dismissed without a word. Well, there will be bloodshed, that’s all.

[Cazarro comes down to Don Medigua’s other side.]

Caz. [aside to Don Med.] I congratulate you. You are admired by the fairest flower in all Peru.

Don Med. That’s very nice, and I wish I could appreciate it, but whilst Don Medigua lives there can be no thoughts of love for me.

Caz. [suddenly, as if struck by an idea] Ah, then he must go; and you—you must get rid of him.

Don Med. If anyone can get rid of Don Medigua, I can. [Aside] On the first vessel leaving for home!

Caz. And the reward for your bravery shall be my daughter’s hand.

Don Med. Eh— what?— I don’t want any reward for my bravery. I’m not out for self.

[Shouts from offstage. Cazarro goes upstage and Scaramba comes down.]

Scar. Don’t forget that Estrelda can be won only over my dead body.

Don Med. You may not know it, but you are an awfully unpleasant man.

Scar. Bah!

Don Med. [threateningly] “Bah” is an expression that I allow no one to make.

Scar. Bah! Bah, do you hear me? Bah, bah, bah.

Don Med. You didn’t say it that way before.

[Noises off stage. Enter Nevado and four soldiers, dragging Pozzo.]

Pozzo [thoroughly cowed] I—I—I’m not the one you want—really I’m not. I humbly assure you that Don Medigua is responsible—not I.

Don Med. [aside] There goes my last button. The traitor!

Caz. Where is Don Medigua?

Don Med. [aside] It’s my life or his—and I rather think it’s his. [To Nevado] Gag him at once!

Pozzo [recognizing Don Medigua] Ah, I am saved! Your Excellency will not permit—

[Nevado and soldiers prevent Pozzo further utterance by gagging him.]

Caz. Who is this fellow?

Don Med. [taking document from Montalba] In the name of the people of Peru, and Don Cazarro their chosen leader, I arrest you, Don Medigua, for violating the constitution.

Caz. He’s Don Medigua?

Don Med. [pointing to the gagged Pozzo] Let him deny it if he can.

[The soldiers form a squad around Pozzo while Don Medigua proudly points to his conquest. Estrelda admiringly kneels at his feet. Scaramba glares at him.]

End of Act I

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Act II

Scene.—A prison courtyard. Distant view of ruins and mountain scenery beyond the prison wall, in the center of which is set an iron entrance gate. Gaoler’s cottage to the left, with a breakfast table in front of it. A door to the right leads to “Medigua’s” prison cell. As the curtain rises, Scaramba is drilling a Chorus of Soldiers accompanied by a female Chorus of Drummer Boys.

[Trumpet.]

Scar. Fall in—attention!

[Exeunt Chorus. As soon as they have gone, enter Verrada through the gate. Business of sentries opening gate and presenting arms.]

Verr. [giving the password] Corregidor.

[The sentries salute, close the gate, and continue their march.]

Verr. Ah, Scaramba—watching over your prisoner?

Scar. [indicating the house] No, I leave that to El Capitán—who, it seems, prefers to play gaoler to Don Medigua, [indicating the prison] rather than become a Minister in the service of His Excellency Don Cazarro.

Verr. [aside] I must not betray him. [Aloud] Everyone to his trade; El Capitán is a fighter by profession. Is it not natural that he would rather command a prison than make speeches to the council?

Scar. I haven’t seen half as much of his fighting as I’ve heard about it.

Verr. I thought you were an admirer of his.

Scar. I used to be; but now I hate him, for Estrelda is completely fascinated by him. Ah, Verrada, I was sure of her until this reputed fire-eater turned up.

Verr. One should never be too sure of a woman until she is his.

Scar. And even then it is better not to boast. My friend, take some of your own advice and be not too sure of your fallen grandee’s daughter. [Indicating the prison]

Verr. Isabel? Ah, she is different from the others.

Scar. Well, perhaps so, but keep her out of this Captain’s sight, for he has completely turned the head of every woman in Tampoza.

Verr. [laughs] Really?

Scar. Yes. That history of his hundred battles is too much for them. They won’t look at any simple uniform; they have eyes only for his glittering armor. [Shakes his fist at the house] Verrada, I’m on duty at the outpost today. See that he is not too polite to Estrelda. You understand.

Verr. [laughs] I understand.

Scar. [poking Verrada in the ribs, laughingly] By the way, I saw your innamorata here this morning. Look out! She may be watching for him. I tell you, my boy, he’s a professional heart-breaker.

[Shouts offstage. Verrada rushes to the gate.]

Verr. It’s El Capitán! He is coming—

Scar. Then I’m going. I’m not in a particularly good humor, and if we meet, there is liable to be a collision. [More shouts] Every one of these shouts cost him ten sous. Bah! he’s no fighter. He’s a politician!

[Exit Scaramba, followed by Verrada.

[Enter from both sides a mixed Chorus of Peruvian soldiers and Spanish citizens. They rush toward the gate but are thrust back by the sentries, who open the gate.

[All act as if expecting someone of importance. Enter four natives from house. Enter Don Medigua — still impersonating El Capitán — through gate. He is encased in full armor, visor, greaves, etc. As he enters he raises his visor and bows R. and L. He has a very long lance. With him, with their arms tied behind them, are Manco and Capac, two old men who are styled and dressed as Incas of Peru, with the customary black and white feather ornamentation. El Capitán leads them on as captives, holding the ropes that bind them. All cheer.]

[Two natives take the Incas upstage and tie them to the wall. Don Medigua waves his arms for silence, then addresses the cheering populace.]

Don Med. Comrades, I feel that I am elected. [Cheers] I furthermore feel myself entitled to the honor [aside] —and expense— of inviting you to breakfast. All those in favor of breakfast will please say “aye.”

All Aye.

Don Med. To the contrary, ”No.“ [Looks around—pause—sadly] The ayes have it. Comrades, once more you have touched me. I have observed that these little friendly demonstrations are always very touching. [Indicating the house] My culinary department is at your service. [Chorus goes toward the house] One moment. My friends, the last we had the pleasure of your company at breakfast, you overlooked the slight formality of leaving behind the silverware. I presume you mistook the most valuable pieces for souvenirs. Now, I do not wish to seem inhospitable, but the few articles that escaped your attention then I trust you will not consider beneath your dignity to overlook on this occasion. [Business breaking chair]

[Exit Chorus into house. The two Incas are sitting against the wall fast asleep. Two natives remove Don Medigua’s armor and take it into the house, leaving the visor on the table.]

Don Med. Popularity is an expensive luxury. When my gold gives out, goodbye popularity. Sentry, have you exercised the prisoner this morning?

Sentry [saluting] No, Capitán.

Don Med. Do so at once. [Sentry opens door of prison] I wonder if Marghanza can overcome her anxiety to see me until General Herbana reaches Tampoza with reinforcements. A woman’s devotion can upset the best-laid scheme that ever man devised—for if Marghanza’s unfortunate sympathy doesn’t get me hanged, Estrelda’s infernal hero-worship is liable to get me drawn and quartered. Between the two of them I’m a hundred-to-one shot.

[Enter Pozzo between two sentries. They march him from left to right, back and forth. Pozzo looks imploringly at Don Medigua, who affects not to see him.]

Don Med. If your prisoner makes any attempt to escape, you will shoot him down without mercy. [Aside] To be cruel is to be kind. To treat Pozzo with the utmost severity is to confer on myself a greater degree of safety. [Sighs deeply] Ah, one man’s meat is another man’s poison. Thus far Pozzo’s percentage of the poison has been abnormally large.

[Pozzo stops short. The sentries endeavor to move him but he refuses to stir. He lays down on the floor.]

Don Med. [rising indignantly] So, so—insubordination! Remove his gag. [Business with gag] Bring the prisoner here. [Sentries bring Pozzo to table] Don Medigua, you are transgressing the orders of His Excellency Don Cazarro. [To sentries] Stand yonder. I will remonstrate with this rebellious man.

[The sentries go upstage.]

Don Med. [aside to Pozzo] Say—what’s the matter with you?

Pozzo Your Excellency—

Don Med. Hush!—no nicknames here. What seems to be the trouble with you?

Pozzo I—I don’t know. I—I don’t feel safe.

Don Med. Safe? You’re the safest man in Peru. You can’t get away, can you?

Pozzo But the risk—

Don Med. Why, you’re not running any risk. I’m taking all the chances, for my neck will answer if you manage to skip; which I’ll take good care you don’t. But Pozzo, you always were an ungrateful wretch.

Pozzo I’m not ungrateful. I fully appreciate all you’ve done for me. [Indicating his handcuffs] But I’m tired of all the honors that are heaped upon me.

Don Med. What? Why, where is your ambition? Have you forgotten who you are? Think for a moment–you represent your King.

Pozzo Suppose— suppose this Cazarro decides to bring matters to a—a—sudden— er— termination?

Don Med. Well?

Pozzo Well— I— [Shaking his head] I’m not sure that I can die with sufficient dignity. I know I can’t do justice to the title.

Don Med. Oh, yes you can. If you can’t die like a hero, you must do the best you know how. You can only die once; no one suggested your being killed a dozen times. Upon my soul you’re getting worse and worse every day.

Pozzo Forgive me, I—

Don Med. The only thing that prevents my striking you to the earth is my respect for your rank and station.

Pozzo My rank?

Don Med. Well, the rank that is supposed to be yours; the rank that you are unworthy of, that you are disgracing by these cowardly fears. Remember that you are a king among beasts, not a beast among kings.

Pozzo I’ll try—I’ll try. But you won’t desert me—you’ll see me through, won’t you?

Don Med. I will be with you in the stretch—and be near you at the finish. So be comfortable. [They shake hands solemnly and surreptitiously] There; don’t let me hear any more complaints. Remember that I am always with you—in spirit. [To sentries] Away with him.

[The sentries conduct Pozzo back to prison.]

Pozzo [aside, as he exits] A live beast is better than a dead king.

[Exit Pozzo and sentries.]

Don Med. [watching him go] Is it possible that such selfishness exists? That man’s ineffable poltroonery would be sufficient to destroy my faith in human nature, did I not decline to believe that he is in earnest.

[Enter Estrelda]

Estr. Capitán!

Don Med. Why this gorgeous apparel?

Estr. We are to be married today.

Don Med. No, no! It is impossible.

Estr. Impossible?

Don Med. My trousseau— I mean, my affairs—are so—so entangled.

Estr. Ah, you do not love me.

Don Med. Estrelda, those are cruel words. [Aside] But they hit the bulls-eye.

Estr. Forgive me; I did not mean to be cruel.

Don Med. I can withstand the onslaught of a hundred plumèd knights, but one cruel word from those sweet lips and I am cleft in twain. [Aside] Where did I get that from? [Aloud] Estrelda, if we move for an adjournment, do you think your father—

Estr. Papa has commanded me to prepare for the ceremony. Can I do aught but obey?

Don Med. It is always well to obey a parent, Estrelda. Still, still, there are occasions when the old folks are hardly up-to-date. Oh, Estrelda, it is my unselfish devotion that prompts me to compare those blushing rosy lips with this creased yellow physiognomy—and I assure you, the contrast does not let me down easy.

[Estrelda throws her arms around Don Medigua’s neck.]

Don Med. [aside, sadly] I’ve planted a tree that I can never chop down.

[Enter Cazarro.]

Caz. Ah, I am glad to find you here together. [To Don Medigua] By the joyous expression on your face I perceive that Estrelda has informed you of my wishes.

Don Med. [aside, sepulchrally] She has. [Aloud] Do I look joyous to you?

Caz. I think so.

Don Med. You had better go to an oculist.

Caz. Good. The holy father will be at the cathedral to marry you this afternoon at three.

Don Med. [in despair] I have an important engagement at that hour; make it half past.

Caz. Capitán, you will be there—at the hour of three.

Don Med. [aside] They won’t even give me a half hour!

Estr. I will go and inform my friends.

[Exit Estrelda into house.]

Caz. [loudly] Now, son-in-law— [Slaps Don Medigua on the back]

Don Med. Wh—why anticipate?

Caz. Look you, Capitán, there is a distinct absence of enthusiasm on your part that is not complimentary to my side of the house.

Don Med. Your Excellency, for the first time in his life El Capitán experiences a feeling akin to fear. Give me a chance to look up a few authorities on the subject.

Caz. Nonsense, Capitán.

Don Med. Upon my word, this business of expecting an utterly unsophisticated bachelor to plunge suddenly into the vortex of a honeymoon— why, it’s—it’s taking too much for granted. [Business]

Caz. How is your prisoner? [Aside to Don Medigua, deliberately] Capitán, we are not safe while he remains here.

Don Med. Then he must go—that’s all.

Caz. Yes, but when?

Don Med. Don’t you think it would be good policy to wait until an epidemic comes around, and let him go with the rest?

Caz. This matter has already been delayed too long. [Crosses to talk to sentries]

Don Med. [aside] That man is in a perpetual hurry to terminate someone’s career.

[Enter natives from house. They place breakfast on table.]

Don Med. [aside, motioning them away] I have swallowed enough pride this morning to keep me in breakfasts for a week. [Takes out a Spanish metal pipe and commences smoking, then looks around at Cazarro, U. C.] He ought to make a nice affectionate father-in-law—methinkest not. After this, the much-maligned mother-in-law is no longer entitled to the reputation she bears for making bad worse. [Sighs deeply] The outlook is gloomy. [Tries to puff pipe] Even the tobacco is dampened. [Suddenly] Bigamist or martyr—which shall it be? Ah well, even the great Caesar had his weakness. Why should I be without mine? [With resolution] There’s no help for it—Estrelda shall be added to my domestic circle.

[Enter through the gate a Chorus of Spanish Ladies headed by Marghanza and Isabel. They array themselves in front of the prison, R.]

[Enter a Chorus of Peruvian Girls headed by Estrelda, L.; they carry a long string or chain of roses. Estrelda fastens a large wedding favor to Don Medigua’s coat. During the following chorus the girls dance around the pair, entwining them both in the rose chain. Don Medigua faces Estrelda; consequently his back is turned to Marghanza and her ladies.]

[Dance. Estrelda kisses Don Medigua. The Girls laugh and clap their hands.]

Estr. Girls, in order that you may thoroughly appreciate my happiness, you may kiss him once each. But remember—no more than once.

Don Med. [aside] A handsome man is never safe from attacks of this sort.

[The Girls cluster around Don Medigua and kiss him.]

Marg. [indicating Girls without looking at them] How can they rejoice when their Viceroy, our poor dear husband, is immured within yonder walls? [Spanish Ladies sigh]

Isab. Poor unhappy father!

Don Med. A man that can’t accustom himself to this— [taking a girl on each knee] has no adaptability in his constitution. [Kissing] I really believe I could learn to like it in time.

[The Girls laugh; then Don Medigua laughs loudly.]

Marg. [starts and listens] That scream! Child, they are torturing him!

Isab. ’Tis but another of those dreams that have come to you of late.

Marg. [sorrowfully] Perhaps, perhaps.

Don Med. [to himself] Now, I leave it to posterity—is this my fault?

[Exeunt Peruvian Girls. Cazarro comes down center.]

Marg. Oh, Don Cazarro! [Spanish Ladies kneel]

Caz. What is your pleasure?

Marg. In mercy, an interview with our unfortunate husband. [Spanish Ladies remain kneeling. Isabel also kneels to Cazarro, but Marghanza remains standing.]

[Don Medigua, the instant Marghanza speaks, starts, looks around, recognizes the Princess, and collapses into a chair.]

Don Med. [aside, hopelessly] My funeral procession starts from this spot.

Marg. Do not reject my petition.

Caz. This is a matter on which El Capitán must decide.

[Don Medigua sees his visor on the table, seizes it, and hurriedly slips it over his head.]

Estr. What are you doing?

Don Med. It’s so very drafty around here, and I—I—my head is cold. [Aside, indicating the Spanish Ladies] Look at that band of early mourners. They might wait until the poor fellow is dead. Marghanza always did rush the season.

Caz. Capitán?

Don Med. [aside] If she sees Pozzo, I am simply a thing of the past.

Caz. Capitán, if you deem it advisable, you may permit the Princess Marghanza to see her husband.

Don Med. [keeping his back to Marghanza] I don’t. No sir, no sir.

Estr. [throwing her arms around him] Do not refuse to allow her to see her husband. Remember your own happiness!

Don Med. [plaintively] I do. [Aside] May my worst enemy enjoy such happiness for the remainder of his life.

Isab. [indicating Don Medigua] That stern-looking man refuses, Mama. What shall we do?

[Marghanza crosses to Don Medigua. He folds his arms sternly, and keeps his face from her.]

Marg. Oh, sir, I beg mercy; mercy for our poor husband.

[Don Medigua shakes his head negatively, gazing at the floor.]

Don Med. Get thee gone, woman. Get thee gone.

[Re-enter the Chorus of Soldiers, quietly.]

Caz. I admire your unfaltering strength of purpose, Capitán, but I have decided to grant this petition.

Don Med. [aside to Cazarro, nervously] No, no, we must be firm. Medigua will grieve if they are kept apart. Now, I propose that we break his heart. That ought to shorten his existence a year or two.

Caz. The process is too slow.

Don Med. It may be a plot to further his escape.

Caz. [firmly] Then we must be present when they meet.

Don Med. [aside] I have simply extinguished my last hope! [Aloud] But if—

Caz. [very firmly] Capitán, you will produce Don Medigua at once!

[Don Medigua salutes. He makes signs to the soldiers, who open the prison door and then exit.]

Don Med. [to himself] This could never have happened to a bachelor. [Reflects—pauses—then suddenly] I’ll risk it. [Turns to face Marghanza and Isabel] Eulalia! Eulalia!

[Don Medigua removes his visor and hurries to Marghanza and Isabel. They stare in surprise, and are about to speak when he hushes them.]

Don Med. [hastily] If you recognize me, my life will be forfeit! One word, and I am no more.

[Business. Marghanza, with a half-scream, throws her arms around his neck and kisses him again and again.]

Marg. Errico, Errico, is it you?

Estr. [watching] Capitán!

Don Med. [freeing himself, loudly] No, certainly not! How dare you make such a mistake? [Aside to Marghanza] Eulalia, you will betray me! [Aloud, indicating the prison] Princess, your husband is in there. [Aside to Marghanza] It’s Pozzo. Greet him as if he were your own darling Errico.

Marg. and Isab. [with disgust] Pozzo? Never!

Don Med. [aside to Marghanza] Oh, this is no time to cavil at trifles.

Marg. For your sake I will do anything. [Throws her arms around him]

Estr. [stamping her foot in annoyance] Capitán!

Don Med. [freeing himself, loudly] Princess, please don’t do that again. I know it is the fashion in Spain, but here in Peru we regard these imported habits as unpardonable frivolities. [To Estrelda] Don’t we?

Estr. We do.

[Marghanza and Estrelda regard each other with undisguised contempt.]

Isab. [aside, taking Don Medigua’s hand] You are looking so well and happy, Papa.

Don Med. No, I’m not. I’m pining away. I’ve lost over a pound and a quarter in the last three minutes.

Estr. [aside] Now the young one is at it! Oh, I shall lose him in a minute. [Aloud, sarcastically] Look out, Capitán, you are in danger.

Don Med. [snatching his hand from Isabel with affected gaiety] Yes, I guess I am.

Estr. Ladies, I deeply sympathize with you, but the noble Capitán is already—

Don Med. [overtly interrupting her] Estrelda, Estrelda! [Rushes over to her] It has just occurred to me that the—the—the afternoon sun is conducive to freckles. You had better go home.

[Marghanza calls Isabel’s attention to Don Medigua’s affectionate attitude.]

Estr. Sun or no sun, I shall remain here.

Don Med. [aside] Isn’t she the limit?

[Enter Pozzo between two sentries. No one moves. A painful pause as Don Medigua watches the suspicious attitude of Marghanza and Isabel.]

[Enter Cazarro with Nevado and a file of soldiers. All fall silent at once.]

Caz. Who is responsible for this tumult?

Estr. The Princess Marghanza—is it not so, Capitán?

Don Med. [looking uncomfortably at Marghanza and Estrelda] I’m—I’m afraid—that she was concerned in the matter—but—that Brownie there—

Caz. Place her under arrest and return your prisoner to his cell.

[Soldiers’ business. Exit Spanish Ladies, R., and Peruvian Girls, L. Sentries hurry Pozzo to the prison door.]

Caz. Why do you not order her instant incarceration?

Marg. Don’t you dare.

Don Med. I—oh, this is hard. If she were not a woman I— Your Excellency, this is most ungallant.

Caz. [angrily] Capitán, order her instant removal into yon prison.

Don Med. Your Excellency, the prison contains but one cell, and that is occupied by—Don Medigua.

Caz. Well, let her be imprisoned with her husband.

Don Med. [emphatically] I object!

Caz. Capitán, why do you object?

Don Med. Your suggestion is unworthy of you. It— oh, it really cannot be.

Caz. Why not?

Don Med. The arrangement is most—un—un-platonic—if not worse.

Pozzo Oh, do not separate us!

Don Med. [to Pozzo] Say, will you— [To Soldiers] Lock him up.

[Business. The sentries bundle Pozzo off to prison.]

Estr. [to Cazarro] Observe his jealousy, Papa.

Don Med. [aside] Pozzo is welcome to my title, but the Princess does not go with it.

Marg. You may kill me; but cross the threshold of that prison—never!

Don Med. Your Highness, those sentiments are unworthy of the wife of—Don Medigua.

Caz. [hesitating] I don’t quite understand.

Don Med. Your Excellency, let us look at this matter from a domestic point of view. The Princess is a very proficient manipulator of vocabulary, and Medigua is not a good listener. They are bound to quarrel incessantly. I hate to interfere between man and wife, but the unfortunate Medigua should be allowed to spend his last few moments in peace.

Caz. [aside] Estrelda is right: he loves her. [Aloud] Very well, she shall go to the Palace. Nevado will see that she is safely caged.

[Enter a soldier with a note, which he hands to Cazarro, then salutes and exits. Don Medigua edges over to Marghanza and is about to speak to her when Estrelda, apparently by accident, comes between them.]

Estr. Pray, don’t let me interrupt you.

Don Med. Don’t mention it.

Caz. [coming downstage] My children, Father Anselm awaits you at the Church Santa Rosa. Remove your prisoner to the Viceregal Palace and there await my return.

[Two soldiers attempt to remove Marghanza. Business.]

Marg. Oh, we must part? [Throwing her arms around his neck] Farewell! farewell!

Estr. How dare she? [To Don Medigua] How dare you permit it?

Don Med. I can’t help it. She has evidently read about my hundred battles. [To Marghanza] Your Highness, those Spanish customs will never go here; really they won’t.

Caz. Come, Capitán. Come, Estrelda.

Estr. [aside] Now for my revenge. [Aloud] Papa, I wish the Princess Marghanza to be present at my ceremony.

Don Med. [quickly, turning to Nevado] Why don’t you remove your prisoner?

Estr. I wish her to witness our—

Caz. What is the meaning of this, Capitán?

Don Med. Your Excellency, such a thing would be a gross breach of military tactics— I mean, court etiquette. The Princess is charged with—with—disorderly conduct. Her presence would disgrace the wedding solemnities.

Marg. [turning] Whose wedding?

Estr. [taking Don Medigua’s hand much against his will, and bowing] Our wedding.

Don Med. Toll the bell, for I am coming.

[Enter Verrada through the gate.]

[Enter Scaramba, who approaches Cazarro.]

End of Act II

---

Act III

Scene.—The same prison courtyard. At rise of curtain, Isabel and Verrada are on stage. The Chorus remains offstage.

Verr. Come, Isabel, we must hasten through the insurgent lines. We shall not be able to see the Princess before we go.

Isab. But my father!—he may be in danger. All his friends are—

Verr. My dear child, you don’t know your father. His capacity for getting his friends into danger is equaled only by his ability to steer clear of it himself.

Isab. But he is the leader of the insurgents, and—

[Low murmuring is heard off L.]

Verr. The ring-leader, yes. [Laughs] He leads his men around and around in a circle until he has them so tired out they couldn’t fight. But come, we must delay no longer. Once behind the insurgent lines, we shall be safe. You trust me, don’t you, dearest?

[The murmur is louder. Clanking of swords and muskets.]

Isab. Verrada, I trust you with my life. [Exit Isabel and Verrada, hurriedly, right]

[Enter Don Medigua (still in disguise as El Capitán), surrounded by Scaramba, Nevado, and Montalba. Don Medigua is talking earnestly to them as he enters. They are followed by a Chorus of Insurgents, who struggle on as if tired out, half asleep.]

Scar. But you’re overdoing it, Capitán. These men are all thoroughly fagged out. You’ve done nothing but exercise them all day.

Don Med. It’s the last chance they may have to exercise. Why deny them the opportunity?

Scar. Your business is to lead them against the enemy, not away from the enemy. The moment you saw the Spanish outpost you fled, and ordered your men to follow.

Don Med. [quickly] Do you suppose I was going to attack a measly outpost? I’m a soldier, not a butcher.

Nev. Yes, but when the reinforcements arrive they may overpower us.

Don Med. Overpower?—Ho! Say, you fellows seem to forget I’m with you. This is my plan: I shall parade the entire army round and round the city until daybreak, even as Joshua walked around Jericho.

Nev. But the men will die of exhaustion. They’re half dead now.

Don Med. It’s a soldier’s duty to die for his country. —What ho, there! [Bangs on table] Wine for everybody! Three cheers for El Capitán! [Everybody yawns audibly] Nevado, Montalba, look out for the men. See that they get plenty to drink.

Mont. You’re the right sort, Capitán.

[Wine and cups are placed on the table.]

Don Med. I’m several kinds of right sorts. Hurrah! for El Capitán. [He drinks; the men yawn] That’s the proper spirit, boys! [Bombastically] This time tomorrow we shall all be dead on the battlefield. I’m used to it, but what about you? I was born amidst the din and carnage of war. My daily food was grape and cannister, and the first word I can remember was spoken from the cannon’s mouth. For, boys, my mother was a vivandière, and I am a child of the Regiment. But you fellows have not had these advantages. We are fighting against Don Medigua—but why? What’s he done? Nothing. [He drinks]

Scar. That’s it—he has done nothing. We want a Viceroy who does something.

[Exit Chorus.]

Scar. [sternly] Capitán!

Don Med. Will you join me?

Scar. No. [Takes out a cigarette; business of lighting it]

Don Med. Then excuse me. I’ll be with you in a moment. [Drinks]

Scar. [sternly] Capitán, you are not only a double-dyed traitor to Cazarro’s cause, but you are false even to your own infidelities.

Don Med. [in the act of drinking; chokes and coughs and cannot speak for a moment] Señor, you may not be aware of it, but you are picking holes in a reputation which has hitherto been spotless. One of us must die.

Scar. Willingly.

Don Med. The only question is: which one? As I am your superior officer, I select you.

Scar. Not so! We must meet—

Don Med. We have met too often as it is. I’d ask nothing better in this world than the privilege of taking one last look at you before they nailed on your lid.

Scar. Coward! I shall report your conduct to Cazarro.

[Exit Scaramba, R. Enter Estrelda.]

Don Med. [aside] Here’s where I break my contract with Scaramba.

Estr. Ah, Capitán, you are an early riser.

Don Med. [trying to brace up] Yes, as an early bird I am a howling success; but as a worm-catcher I am an elaborate failure.

Estr. You speak in the language of conundrums.

Don Med. Nay, Estrelda, it is the language of love. [Goes to embrace her] Kiss your Cappy?

Estr. [frightened] What is the meaning of this?

Don Med. It means, Estrelda, that I am no longer the cold and chilly Knight of Tomalley— I mean, Tampoza. It means that I am yours for keeps.

Estr. Capitán, what has come over you?

Don Med. Ask your friend Scaramba. I have eaten of the horseradish of jealousy, and it has filled me to the brim with the burning fire of bituminous revenge.

Estr. I don’t know what you’ve eaten, but [pointing to the wineglasses] you are filled to the brim with something.

Don Med. Estrelda, do not lower the dignity of my metaphor by these pointed allusions. You do not know what it is to lose something you didn’t want until you had lost it! I love you with a devotion that is worthy of a better cause.

Estr. [freeing herself from him; drawing further and further away] Somehow or other I don’t like you when you are affectionate.

Don Med. Estrelda, wherefore this sudden exhibition of frappéd indifference?

Estr. I love you with a love that asks no requital.

Don Med. [perplexed] My position in this amalgamation is not exactly clear.

Estr. Can you not understand that you are the ideal at whose shrine I fain would devote—

Don Med. Nay, let’s get down to terra firma. I’ve had enough of shrines and ideals. I want a kiss.

Estr. Oh, Capitán!

Don Med. You’ve been setting the pace long enough. [Takes her in his arms]

Estr. [bashfully] Of course, if you insist—

Don Med. I do. [Business]

[Enter Scaramba through arch. Don Medigua, seeing him, suddenly releases Estrelda.]

Don Med. Good-bye, Estrelda. [To Scaramba] Just a farewell kiss, that was all.

Scar. Capitán, you are—

Don Med. No, I’m not. On the honor of a soldier and a gentleman I am not!

Scar. Yes, you were going to kiss Estrelda.

Don Med. Scaramba, you’re getting monotonous. You’re everlastingly piping the same tune. I know a young man in Zanzibar who did the same thing. He was in love, too. Do you know what became of him?

Scar. I do not.

Don Med. Then I’ll tell you.

[Cannons are heard in the distance.]

Scar. Ah, the enemy has begun the attack. General Herbana is punctual.

[Enter a soldier, left, disheveled and dusty. He sounds the bugle call to arms. Enter Cazarro, right, followed by Nevado and several soldiers. All is confusion, bustle, and excitement.]

Caz. Come, Capitán!

[Exit all but Don Medigua and Estrelda, left. Estrelda in the meantime has been watching Don Medigua like a cat watches a mouse, noting his every action, and has moved to right center unnoticed by him. As soon as the stage is clear, Don Medigua peers cautiously around and then turns deliberately as if to make his escape, right; but he is blocked by Estrelda, who bars his way with folded arms.]

Estr. [pointing left] That is the way to the scene of the conflict, Señor.

Don Med. [very much astonished] So it is! But I know a nearer way. I propose to execute a flank movement to the enemy’s rear. It’s a newly imported tactic. I need not say that it is fraught with danger, or I shouldn’t be there.

[Muffled cannons, rataplan of musketry, etc., going on all through this scene.]

Estr. Your place is at the head of your troop of cavalry. [Trying to drag him upstage left]

Don Med. [trying to go right] No, I guess not.

Estr. Oh, Capitán, join my father’s forces! There is yet time to redeem yourself.

Don Med. If it’s all the same to you, I’ll remain in pawn.

Estr. If Scaramba can ever forgive my having deserted him for you, I will marry him tomorrow.

[Enter from the left a group of Spanish Soldiers with drawn swords.]

Soldiers Down with Cazarro! Down with Cazarro! Hurrah for Don Medigua, Viceroy of Peru!

Don Med. [with delirious joy] Hurrah! Hurrah! Soldiers, salute your Viceroy!

Estr. Traitor! Men, seize this coward. He is El Capitán, Don Medigua’s gaoler.

All El Capitán! El Capitán!

[Exit Estrelda, left.]

Don Med. Lay a finger on me and I’ll have you blown from the cannon’s breech.

[A struggle. The Spanish soldiers handle him roughly and drag him toward the right.]

Don Med. I tell you, I’m the Viceroy.

[The Soldiers laugh and hustle him off.

[Enter from the right General Herbana at the head of his victorious Spanish troops. They bring with them Cazarro, as a prisoner.]

Gen. [to Cazarro] And where is His Excellency, Don Medigua? Speak quickly, or heads shall answer!

Caz. They are bringing him to you, General. Here he comes.

[Enter Pozzo, followed by two Ministers who are bowing obsequiously to him. All cheer. General Herbana rushes forward and bends his knee to Pozzo.]

Gen. Your Excellency, we are victorious. [Handing him a paper] A message from King Philip.

Pozzo Rise, noble General. I—

[Enter Don Medigua, bound and gagged, dragged by soldiers, right. At the same time enter Princess Marghanza, Isabel, and Verrada.]

Pozzo General Herbana, you have indeed done well. [Rubbing his sides] Yes, we have been sorely upset.

[Marghanza, Isabel, and Verrada rush over to the struggling Don Medigua and embrace him.]

Marg. Errico! Errico!— Release him at once.

[The soldiers release Don Medigua and take the gag from his mouth.]

Pozzo Your Excellency, I welcome you back to office. I’m going out of the business permanently. [Hands his shackles to Don Medigua]

Gen. [only now rising; still to Pozzo] But are you not Don Medigua?

Don Med. That? Well, I guess not! [To Pozzo] Say, what do you mean by deceiving the General in this barefaced manner?

Pozzo I thought—

Don Med. Did you? Well, hereafter I’ll do the thinking.

Gen. Have I the honor of addressing His Excellency, Don Medigua?

Don Med. You have. [All cheer. Business. Don Medigua waves silence] And now that I have righted this great public wrong, I mean to adjust a personal matter. Eulalia—

[Isabel’s expression urges Verrada forward.]

Verr. I love your daughter.

Don Med. Well, that shows excellent taste on your part. Take her.

[Verrada and Isabel embrace.

[Enter Estrelda and Scaramba as prisoners.]

Don Med. Release that pair.

[Business. Don Medigua goes to them and joins their hands.]

Don Med. My children, you’ve given me a lot of trouble, but you have your Viceroy’s blessing. Here, take each other—you’re both welcome.

Estr. You, the Viceroy?— Oh, sir, spare my father’s life!

Don Med. On one condition.

Estr. Name it.

Don Med. That you will forgive Don Medigua for the shortcomings of—El Capitán.

[Estrelda kneels and kisses his hand.]

Curtain