piece may finally begin to reach its intended public. Cast Quadrant—Milford Fargo Washball—John Maloy Parchment—Arden Hopkin McSnip—Richard Hudson Rattletrap—William Sharp Topinlift—Richard Reif Raccoon—Joseph Bias Moll Placket—Elaine Bonazzi Miss Lucy-Ruth Weniger-Denison Meanwell- Tonio DiPaolo Synopsis Act I Scene 1 Three of the humorists meet in a tavern to discuss the forged documents and fabricated story that will convince the dupes that the location of one of Blackbeard's treasures has been discovered. Rattletrap, designated to impersonate a conjurer, joins the others before the dupes arrive. The dupes are then cleverly drawn into the conspiracy, and they delight at the prospect of such a windfall. (Opening Song, Airs 1-3) Scene 2. Trushoop, who has been keeping late hours in order to plan for the recovery of the treasure, finds himself locked out of his own house at night. His wife has little sympathy for his plight, since Trushoop's vow of secrecy has left his tardiness unexplained. Scene 3. Moll Placket has no difficulty in prying the secret of the treasure from her keeper, Raccoon. She in turn decides that she will desert him as soon as he has made her wealthy. (Airs 4 and 5) Scene 4. Hum, Quadrant, and Rattletrap confer in a street to ensure that all preparations for the treasure hunt have been made, including a spectacular phony display of magic by Rattletrap. Scene 5. McSnip abuses and insults the employees at his tailor's shop, since he anticipates that he will have little use for them in the future. (Air 6) Scene 6. Lucy and Meanwell find their marriage plans obstructed, because Washball has suddenly decided that a rich man's niece might find a more suitable mate. Washball arrives and drives Meanwell from his house. (Air 7) Scene 7, The humorists and dupes together make final preparations for their night¬time treasure hunt. Each member of the party declares his readiness and courage in the face of the anticipated dangers. (Airs 3-10) Act II Scene I. Moll Placket is pleasantly occupied with a sailor, Topinlift, when Raccoon returns home unexpectedly. The sailor hides under the bed, but Raccoon's suspicions are aroused. Topinlift finally manages an escape when Moll pretends that she is conjuring up a beneficent spirit to aid Raccoon in his quest for the treasure. (Airs 11-13) Scene 2. The search party reaches the place where the treasure is buried. Rattletrap impresses the dupes with a mock ritual that is