First Syllable.
BARON.
Enter two boys dressed as highwaymen. For this purpose art muslin scarves tied round the waist, hats and masks as already [described], and toy pistols are enough, with a scenery of trees painted on some stout paper.
First boy addresses his comrade in tones of mystery, glancing to right and left as though he is expecting somebody. At length he holds up a warning finger: “Hist! The Baron comes this way!”
They secrete themselves and wait until the Baron approaches. He looks round, whereupon the two highwaymen jump out, secure him, and make off.
The Baron’s servants arrive on the scene too late, but vow they will track the robbers, and start off in hot pursuit.
End of First Act.
Second Syllable.
ATE-(ET).
Baron asleep in one corner of a tent (made as previously [described]).
The robbers are eating their dinner, and talking in low tones of the ransom they expect to get for their prisoner. Whilst they are talking the Baron awakes. They are so intent upon their conversation that they do not observe him arise, creep up, and steal their food. He eats it, and returns to his corner again.
The ruffians discover their food is gone and are furious, but do not suspect their prisoner, who they suppose is still slumbering.