Arethusa Gaunt, his Daughter.
David Pew, a Blind Beggar, once Boatswain of the Arethusa
Kit French, a Privateersman.
Mrs. Drake, Landlady of the Admiral Benbow Inn.
The Scene is laid in the neighbourhood of Barnstaple. The Time is about the year 1760. The action occupies part of a day and night.
Note.—Passages suggested for omission in representation are enclosed in square brackets, thus [ ].
ACT I.
The Stage represents a room in the Admiral Guinea’s house: fireplace, arm-chair, and table with Bible, L., towards the front; door C., with window on each side, the window on the R., practicable; doors, R. and L., back; corner cupboard, a brass-strapped sea-chest fixed to the wall and floor, R.; cutlasses, telescopes, sextant, quadrant, a calendar, and several maps upon the wall; a ship clock; three wooden chairs; a dresser against wall, R. C.; on the chimney-piece the model of a brig and several shells. The centre bare of furniture. Through the widows and the door, which is open, green trees and a small field of sea.
SCENE I
Arethusa is discovered, dusting