ith red cloth, which should be placed in
the background, at equal distances from the sides; on this is placed a
large, showy chair, with a canopy over the top. Seated in the chair is
Solomon. His costume consists of a dark velvet suit, trimmed with gold
and silver fringe; a large cloak, trimmed with ermine, is worn on the
shoulders; black hose, reaching to the knee, crossed with crimson
ribbon; red sandals, ornamented with gold; a showy crown on the head,
and his face covered with a heavy white beard, reaching down on his
breast; his right hand is pointed towards the soldier who holds the
child; the eyes are also directed that way, while the countenance
appears stern and commanding. The soldier's costume consists of a suit
of armor such as can be procured at theatres and costumers; but, if
preferred, a military suit of any kind will answer. His position is,
near the platform, the left hand grasping the child, while the right
holds a sword, which is raised above it; his body faces the audience,
his head turned towards the king, the countenance stern and
forbidding. On the other side of the throne stands the king's guard, a
man dressed in a blue frock, trimmed around the skirts, sleeves, and
front with red; white hose, reaching to the knee; black knee breeches;
low shoes; knee and shoe buckles; lace collar and wristbands; low
black Kossuth hat, with gold band and plume. The right hand grasps a
long spear. Position is, facing the audience, the body erect, and eyes
directed straight forward. At the corner of the platform, near the
soldier, kneels the mother of the child, in position so that a side
view is had of the face; the hands are clasped and raised in front of
her breast, head thrown back, and eyes directed to the king,
countenance expressing hope. She is dressed in deep mourning, her hair
flowing loosely over her shoulders. On the other side of the throne,
opposite the guard, stands the other woman, her arms folded on her
breast, eyes directed to the soldier, countenance calm. Her costume
consists of a white dress, cut low in the neck, and encircled around
the waist with a colored belt; hair arranged in heavy braids, and
ornamented with showy hair pins. The lights should be of medium
brilliancy, and come from either side of the stage. If desirable, a
few paintings and statuary can be arranged in the background. Music
soft and plaintive.

THE BRIDAL PRAYER.

Sweet be her dreams, the fair, the young;