| Henry Merton (a young Englishman). |
| Peter Thwaite (a Sheep Farmer in Australia). |
| Kirstin (Thwaite's Daughter). |
| Mrs Plant (Housekeeper to Merton). |
| Lady Gairloch. |
| Lady Betty Craigie (her Daughter). |
| Jane (a maid). |
The Action takes place:—
In Scene 1, at a remote sheep farm in Queensland at the end of the 19th Century.
Scene 2, at Dr Merton's House in Devonshire Street.
Scene 3, the same.
Between Scenes 1 and 2, fifteen years elapse.
Between Scenes 2 and 3, a night.
Scene I.: Outside Thwaite's sheep farm in Australia. A double wooden railing at back runs the whole length of stage, supposed to be continued behind house—L. part of the house is seen—wooden house with veranda. Thwaite leaning against railing smoking a pipe C. Merton R.C. on wooden seat, wooden table beside him C. He is arranging, strapping, etc., a wallet or satchel.
Merton. There now, I think everything's ready. There's one strap more somewhere [looking round]. I must have left it in the house. And then I shall have to say good-bye. How can I thank you, Mr Thwaite, for all you have done for me! [Thwaite, unsmiling, smokes on in silence]. The way you took me in when you found me dying and let me stay under your roof all these weeks—
Thwaite [gruffly]. That's all right.
Merton. You have been endlessly good to me. I shall never forget it, never.