Grotto_Bookends

Phoenixmasonry Masonic Museum

M.O.V.P.E.R. (Grotto) Bookends

Here is a vintage set of cast iron bookends with a bronze/brass finish. They depict a certain Prophet who is a member of the M.O.V.P.E.R. (Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm). They stand 5 1/2 inches tall and 4 7/8 inches across. Together they weigh 3 1/2 lbs. They are in great condition, with old green felt on the bottom, and a very nice patina.

Grotto Jewel





History of the Grotto

The Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, whose subordinate bodies are the Grottoes, is an organization by and for Master Masons. While in no way connected with Masonry proper, its membership is restricted absolutely and exclusively to Master Masons in good standing. Although it is primarily an organization for good wholesome fun and frolic, it also has its serious side. Its slogan is "Good Fellowship", and in contact with our fellowman, this principle is exemplified to a marked degree.

For some years prior to 1889, several members of Hamilton Lodge N0. 120, F.& A.M., at Hamilton, New York, sought relaxation from the sterner duties of life by holding occasional informal meetings for fun and good fellowship. The chief spirit in the fun was LeRoy Fairchild, and in the summer of 1889, he and a devoted band of followers discovered the Enchanted Realm in which, upon entering with song and laughter, they and their successors have found a rich heritage. The first meeting of this organization was held on the 10th day of September, 1889. It was decided at this meeting that the membership of the organization should be confined to Master Masons in good standing.

The idea of the Order proved immediately attractive. Many distinguished Masons entered the Enchanted Realm and returned pleased and charmed by its brilliancy. The Order could no longer be confined to one locality and in response to imperative requests that were not to be denied, on the 13th of June, 1890, the "F.D.C." duly founded and established the Supreme Council of the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm.

It is a social organization for the Master Mason and all such are welcome to our Enchanted Realm. It encourages renewed interest in the Blue Lodge, its activities and attendance. While it is not and makes no claim to be a part of Symbolic Craft Masonry, they ever bear in mind that their membership is composed entirely of Master Masons.

The ritual is original and unique. The spectacular ceremonial requires a cast of thirty (30) or more and offers unlimited opportunities in stage activities and stunt performance. Its proper rendition requires a large stage, elaborate costumes, and stage settings. It is mysterious, startling and spectacular with a Persian atmosphere. While pervaded with a spirit of wholesome fun, it teaches a serious lesson which lingers with the initiate, instilling in him a spirit of optimism, a kindly feeling for his brother man, and an impression of GOOD FELLOWSHIP, which is something devoutly to be desired.

That the Grotto occupies a legitimate place and is doing a wonderful work cannot be denied. It extends the hand of Good Fellowship to all Master Masons, having a smile for all and a frown for none.

In June 1949, at its Supreme Council Session, the delegates adopted a resolution to establish a national charitable program, which was to be named the Humanitarian Foundation. In 1951, their first project was "Aid for the Cerebral Palsy Child". In 1953 they adopted the Enchanted Lantern to represent contributions made. For each $50 tax-deductible donation, a certificate, receipt and emblem are issued. From 1953 to 1970 the main thrust of the charitable trust was the Cerebral Palsy child.

In 1969 the Humanitarian Foundation Trustees expanded their scope, by adopting the Dental Care for Children with Special Needs. They met and agreed the Grotto would establish a dental clinic for the children with special needs at the Illinois Masonic Medical Center.   In 1987, the Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, Ohio and in 2000 the Children's Medical Center in Dallas, Texas became National Treatment Centers.

Today the Humanitarian Foundation, not only remembers the "forgotten child" (child with cerebral palsy) with the annual contribution to research, but combines a unique partnership with qualified dentists throughout the United States and Canada. The program is designed to help these children with special needs, under the age of 18, receive the best dental care possible.

Their Supreme Council Grotto operates a website here: http://www.scgrotto.com/index.html

Ritual for Conferring the Order of Veiled Prophet

Opening

MONARCH: Prophet Chief Justice, see that all the secret ways are securely guarded, and ascertain if all present are Veiled Prophets.
CHIEF JUSTICE: Prophet Marshal, attend. Marshal steps forward and salutes.
CHIEF JUSTICE: Prophet Marshal, are all the secret ways securely guarded? Marshal faces the door and addresses Captain of the Guard.
MARSHAL: Prophet Captain of the Guard, are the secret ways securely guarded, and are all present Veiled Prophets?
CAPTAIN OF THE GUARD: The secret ways are securely guarded, all present have given the proper passwords, and are Veiled Prophets in good standing.
MARSHAL, facing the Chief Justice: The secret ways are securely guarded, all present have given the inside and outside passwords, and are Veiled Prophets in good standing.
The Sentinel or his assistants should be stationed outside the door to examine all dues cards and take up the outside password. The Captain of the Guard or his assistants should be stationed inside the door and take up the inside password. If there is only one door to the Grotto room, the Sentinel should be stationed inside the door to examine all dues cards and take up the outside password. The Captain of the Guard should be stationed about six to ten feet farther inside the room and take up the inside password.
CHIEF JUSTICE: Prophet Monarch, the secret ways are securely guarded, and all present are Veiled Prophets.
MONARCH: Prophet Chief Justice, what makes you a Veiled Prophet?
CHIEF JUSTICE: My obligation.
At this time the Monarch and Chief Justice face each other, grasp right hands, and place left hands on each others right shoulder.
MONARCH: Will you have more or less?
CHIEF JUSTICE: More.
MONARCH: More what?
CHIEF JUSTICE: ....
MONARCH: And ....
The Monarch will now call up the Grotto with three blows of the gavel.
MONARCH: Prophet Marshal, see that all are in order as Veiled Prophets.
MARSHAL: Prophets, it is our Monarch’s command that you be in order as Veiled Prophets. Attend to giving the signs.
The Marshal will lead in giving the signs. The Monarch does not give them. The order of giving is, first, the sign of adoration; second, the dueguard; third, grand hailing sign. When all the signs have been given, the Marshal will turn to the Monarch and salute with the grand hailing sign.
MONARCH: Prophet Chaplain, you will attend at the Altar.
The Chaplain repairs to the Altar, front center stage, kneels facing the auditorium, opens the Bible, removes Fez, and recites prayer: Our Heavenly Father: We thank thee for the privilege of meeting together as Prophets of the Mystic Order Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm. May our hearts be filled with sympathy for those in illness and adversity. May we make this world a better place in which to live through our thoughtfulness and consideration of the welfare of others. May the friendly spirit of goodfellowship guide our actions throughout our lives. Amen.
The above or some suitable prayer may be used. Chaplain returns to his place.
MONARCH: I now declare ... Grotto open and in order for business. Prophet Captain of the Guard, inform the Sentinel. Monarch raps gavel once to seat the Prophets.
Captain of the Guard knocks four times—two double knocks—on the door. The Sentinel answers in the same way, then the Captain of the Guard opens the door and informs the Sentinel thus: ... Grotto is now open and in order for business.
He then closes the door and gives four knocks as before. The Sentinel answers with four knocks—two double knocks.
CAPTAIN OF THE GUARD: Prophet Monarch, the Sentinel is informed.

Regarding scenery

The matter of scenery for the Ceremonial Drama can be simple or elaborate—as you desire—can afford— or as auditorium used is equipped. The simple method will be explained here. If the auditorium has an outer and inner curtain, a good portion of the worry is eliminated. The front curtain, of course, is the regular “house curtain.” An inner curtain is one that is about four feet behind the front curtain and usually works on a “traveler” or track, opening from side to side. This inner curtain should be used for the Prologue and Epilogue. It can also be used for the Tomb scene by merely placing a few decrepit looking tombstones (scene painted, of course, and easy to handle) on and a large one in center between the two curtains to place the candidate therein, or merely place the candidate between the opening of the curtains, surmising it to be a tomb. You must keep the lights on a dim blue or green for this scene.
The MOKANNA Court scene should be set about half stage—using the inner curtain when open as a neutral leg drop. The throne chair and shrine with the glowing heart and other court decorations are used to glorify the scene and you can have guards and courtiers in gala attire as you desire.
The Haunted Forest drop should be hung down stage behind the inner curtain. When this drop is in position you clear or “strike” the Mokanna set and make ready the Grotto or Caldron scene. All these should be pre-set before you start your show. To go into the Caldron scene you merely “take away” the Haunted Forest drop.
From the Caldron you go into the Tomb scene. This can be another painted drop or use the inner curtain as above suggested. If you use a painted drop, it should be hung immediately behind the Haunted Forest drop. While the Tomb scene is on, you prepare for the Storm scene. The back drop for this can be a special one—your Grotto drop—or a plain gray or dirty back wall. Your cloud machine and lighting effects, with the wave cloth, boat, etc., are what make this scene. It should not be brightly lighted, but a dim blue used.
The Imperial Chamber of Gehenna can be another special drop, or the cave or Grotto scene can be again utilized. Just give His Majesty a fiery-looking throne, on a dais if possible, with red lighting, etc., and you have your scene.
Back to the court of Mokanna as before—then “close in” with the inner curtain for the Epilogue and you have your show.

Important Monitoral Suggestion to the Cast

Nothing but most careful study of the Ritual will qualify the members of the cast to properly present the ceremonial work of the Grotto.
Each member must not only commit his part so thoroughly that the words will flow easily and naturally, hut he must also make himself so familiar with the entire ‘work that he will have a clear conception of his role, as it relates to other parts, in word and action.
Just as the professional actor seeks to give the stamp of individuality to his work; so should the leading members of the cast aspire to present really artistic creations which will illuminate the text of the drama and make it intensely interesting.
In this connection it may be said that the notes which accompany the lines of the drama are intended to be merely suggestions, and are not to be considered as absolutely binding.

The Cast
The cast should be organized as a Degree Team and be under the management of a director.
The director should have power to select the members of the cast, be should also select his assistants, and be held responsible for the training of the team.
He should he loyally sustained in enforcing strict discipline, for without discipline it is impossible to properly present the drama. At least forty people are required to make up the cast for a full spectacular presentation, many more can be used to advantage on a large stage.
Costumes
As part of this Ritual, the Supreme Council has provided a description of the various Grotto costumes, which should be consulted before making selections, as it contains valuable information and suggestions which will be helpful in settling this important matter.
The Stage
The stage and its equipment demand most careful attention in all the details of arrangement relating thereto. Therefore, a new Grotto should carefully investigate the plans adopted by established Grottoes before deciding on the particulars relating to stage matters.
The committee in charge should first make a careful study of the Ritual and accompanying notes, which will give them a general knowledge of what is required, then they should seek the advice of those who have had actual experience in staging the drama.
By following this plan they will profit by the experience of others and thus avoid making costly mistakes.
The following suggestions should be read because they apply to the question under consideration:
List of Properties Necessary in Putting on Ceremonial Boat, emblem on ribbon, caldron pair of horns, tail, ice for hoof, scroll for record, chains, gong, hoodwinks, thunder sheet, lightning, wind machine, surf machine, casket for Jewel, torches, ropes, battle axes, tridents, spears, and equipment for putting on stunts in Feast of Revels. Phonograph records of sound effects are recommended when a P.A. system is used.
Stage Equipment
Whatever scheme of stage equipment is adopted will have to be worked out according to the circumstances surrounding each case, but, in a general way, it may he said that the equipment must include a curtain, and drops as follows: Mokena's Court, Haunted Forest, Wood Scene, rocks, stumps, etc., Caldron, tomb, Storm and River, Imperial Chamber of Gehenna, also wing, fly and borders to match each drop. Throne for Mokanna, Throne for His Majesty, shrine for casbet, also electrical wiring, lamps, and machines for producing necessary light effects.
In order to properly confer the Order of Veiled Prophet the work of the Grotto must be done on a stage, which should be in a hall of sufficient size to accommodate the membership of the Grotto and leave a reasonable floor space immediately in front of the stage for candidates.
The stage should be large enough to accommodate the cast and to set the various scenes necessary to make a full presentation of the drama. It must be equipped with paraphernalia especially designed for the work, and so arranged that the necessary changes of scenes can be made with the least possible loss of time.

Prologue

Note: The Monarch, Chief Justice, Master of Ceremonies, Orator and Grand Chamberlain enter from rear of the hall, down the center aisle, onto the stage and take their stations in front of the curtain. If an orchestra is in pit, it will then play march. Candidates places in front rows. (The above is optional, the officers can be on the stage when the curtain goes up, or can enter from center or sides of the stage, with the exception of the Grand Chamberlain, who should be on the level of the candidates.)

Ceremonial Drama Section

The Prologue and Epilogue being definitely not a part of the dramatic section, should not be given in costume or the heavy colored uncomfortable and terrible looking robes that are so often used. These two portions of the ceremonial are much better and more impressive if the officers, or cast members doing this part are dressed in tuxedos, or neat uniform, business suits, alike if possible. (If summertime dress alike in sports clothing is distinctive ) A ribbon with the name of the Grotto thereon, worn over the shoulder as a baldric, as a touch of color; or a wide red ribbon over a tuxedo is colorful. The Prologue and Epilogue should he played before an inner curtain, a’ curtain hung four or five feet behind the front or main curtain; ‘this enables the pre-setting of the Mokanna Court scene, and if that is set in half-stage, the Caldron scene can also be pre-set. If the inner curtain is not available, then before the regular curtain, if there is sufficient “APRON” (space between curtain and edge of stage) to stand in comfort.
The poem, “IN A FRIENDLY SORT OF WAY”, has been so terribly given on so many occasions that it would have been better to have eliminated it entirely. However, it is so appropriate and fitting that it should be given, with the speaker facing the audience, talking out so that the Prophet in the last row hears him as well as the candidate in the first row. The poem should not be given too fast, nor should the last word of each line be dropped or lost. Each word should be spoken clearly and distinctly. There should be no movement among the candidates while the poem is being recited, so that there is nothing to distract attention from the speaker.
It is not necessary that the Grand Chamberlain recite the poem. It can be given by any one of the Prophets on the stage at the time. In some Grottoes it is done very well by someone off stage speaking through a microphone as though the words were coming from another world.
The Grand Chamberlain should place the candidates in position before the poem is started, with a Grotto member at the left end of each line so that the left end candidate will have someone to place his hand upon.
It is not necessary that the Monarch or Line Officers give the Prologue and Epilogue. They are usually busy with other duties and sometimes do not do it as effectively as the regular members of the cast who would repeat it year after year and are trained and coached in their lines.

MONARCH: In the Entered Apprentice Degree we are taught, before starting anything important, we ought to seek our God for help and light, and in that spirit, we come tonight.
Prophet Chaplain, you will attend at the Altar, all will rise.
Pedestal with closed Bible to be Ion center stage, front, Chaplain will kneel back of pedestal, open Bible, and give the following prayer.
CHAPLAIN: Great Architect of the Universe, the only true God, who hides not his face behind a veil, but allows the sunshine of his love to shine down upon us, we humbly ask Thee tonight for a special blessing upon these Pilgrim Neophytes, whom we are about to initiate into our mysteries. Endow them with a divine wisdom, that they may fully absorb the story of Sympathy and Goodfellowship, which we are about to unfold this evening. And may we all leave here tonight with the thought in mind to love and serve Thee, and to live and preach the doctrine of Brotherly Love. All of which we ask in Thy Name. Amen.
MONARCH: All be seated.
GRAND CHAMBERLAIN, On same level as candidates: Prophet Monarch, these candidates, all of whom have been regularly proposed and elected to receive the Order of Veiled Prophet, now seek admission to the Enchanted Realm.
MONARCH: Whence came they?
GRAND CHAMBERLAIN: From the cold light of common day they seek admission to the Enchanted Realm.
MONARCH: Have they been duly avouched?
GRAND CHAMBERLAIN: They are all our kind.
MONARCH: Candidates, are you still minded, all bravery and belief, to join the standard of the Great Mokanna, our Veiled Prophet Chief?
CANDIDATES: We are.
MONARCH: Candidates, it is my pleasure to congratulate you on the honor conferred by your election to receive the Order of Veiled Prophet, and to assure you that sincerity of purpose, brings to all thus honored a cordial welcome to our mystic fellowship. We are now ready to proceed with your induction, but before you can proceed further in the ceremony, you must give the Prophets here assembled, positive assurance of your sincerity, in seeking admission to the Order, by consenting, of your own free will, to proceed and take the Obligation of Veiled Prophet, which will solemnly bind you to secrecy, obedience and loyalty, as a member of the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm. This requirement is imperative, and must be cheerfully complied with, if you wish to proceed farther. In order that you may be better informed before making the irrevocable decision, our Prophet Orator will now briefly explain to you, the nature and purpose of our Order.
I charge you to give close attention to his words.
ORATOR: Candidates, the Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm originated with Master Masons, good and true. It is therefore fundamentally Masonic. None but Master Masons in good standing are eligible to membership, and its superstructure is erected upon the enduring basis of Masonic moral precepts, but it is in no sense a part of Symbolic Craft Masonry, and makes no claim to be such. Its purpose is to foster the spirit of good-fellowship among its members without infringing upon the solemn dignity of the Lodge.
For the accomplishment of that purpose, the Order establishes Grottoes wherein Master Masons of all Lodges may meet and cultivate the cheerful side of life, through the enjoyment of social pleasures that serve to break down the barriers of reserve and unites them in a spirit of sympathy and good-fellowship, which brightens their lives and makes them better men and better Masons.
Cheerful goodfellowship founded upon the principles of Masonic brotherhood, graced with the charm of true sympathy, is the ideal for which the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm stands. If this ideal appeals to you as being worthy of your loyal support, you will proceed; if not, you will retire.
MONARCH: Candidates, the decisive moment has arrived. If there be any who do not wish to proceed, they will now retire. All who wish to proceed raise their right hands in token of their sincerity
Grand Chamberlain, you will place the candidates in position.
GRAND CHAMBERLAIN, gives proper instructions, telling candidates to place their right hand over their heart and their left hand on the right shoulder of their left hand neighbor, then recites: When all the world seems gloomy,
Your thoughts are sad and blue
And the clouds hang dark and heavy
And won’t let the sunshine thru,
It makes the day seem brighter
For a fellow just to lay
His hand upon your shoulder
In a friendly sort of way.

It makes the sun come out again,
It makes the pulses start,
You feel a happy throbbing
In the region of your heart;
You feel a lump within your throat—
You don’t know what to say,
When a hand is on your shoulder
In a friendly sort of way.

This world’s a curious compound,
With its honey and its gall,
Its hopes and disappointments,
Rut a good world after all;
And a good God must have made it,
At least that’s what I say—
When a hand is on your shoulder
In a friendly sort of way.
GRAND CHAMBERLAIN after a brief pause: Prophet Monarch the candidates are in proper position.
MONARCH: Everyone will rise, the Prophets will remove their Fez, and the Candidates will give their attention and follow closely while our Chief Justice administers the Grotto Obligation.
CHIEF JUSTICE: Candidates, you will each say I, pronounce your name and repeat the words of your Solemn Obligation after me.
I, ..., on my faith and honor as a Master Mason, do solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, that I will never willingly or knowingly, reveal to any person, not a member in good standing in the Order, the secrets of the Mystic Order of Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Realm, except to duly elected candidates, under the restrictions of the Supreme Council of the Order for initiatory purposes.
I do also promise and swear that I will never recommend as a candidate for the Order, any person, unless I am satisfied that he is a worthy Master Mason in good standing, nor will I ever be present at the conferring of the Order on any person I know not to be such.
I do also promise and swear that I will never affiliate with, nor visit any body of this Order, nor recognize in any way, as a Veiled Prophet of the Enchanted Realm, any person, unless it, or he, shall recognize the Supreme Council organized at Hamilton, New York, on June 13, 1890, as the Supreme Body of the Order.
To all of which I do solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, binding myself under no less a penalty than the infliction of all the penalties of my Masonic degrees, up to and including that of a Master Mason, should I ever knowingly or willfully violate this, my solemn Obligation, as a Veiled Prophet of the Enchanted Realm. So help me God.
MONARCH: Candidates, drop your hands and all be seated.

Ceremonial Drama
Scenes

1. COURT OF MOKANNA— Mokanna, seated on throne, surrounded by Guards, Magician and other entertainers.
2. THE HAUNTED FOREST—
3. EARTHWARD BANK OP THE STYX or CALDRON SCENE—
4. THE SILENT TOMB—
5. THE FURY OF THE ELEMENTS—STORM SCENE— “The point just above the awful whirlpool,” still on the earthward bank of the Styx. Dialogue in the Ritual followed. Wind and rain machine or phonograph records may he used.
Wind and storm record for this scene can be obtained through the Executive Secretary’s office. Record runs about four minutes.
6. THE IMPERIAL COURT— His Majesty on throne, surrounded by Imps and other characters. Red lights, etc.
7. COURT OF MOKANNA— Same as Scene 1.
After obligation, Monarch says: Candidates, be seated.
The lines to follow are new; they are spoken by the Narrator. If you decide to use them do not use any part of the lines spoken by “Goodfellow,” throughout the rest of the Ritual.
As candidates are seating themselves, lights are dimmed to a blackout—Officers leave stage and Narrator enters in the dark—slips in on either side or in center, with the curtain itself for a background, a small green spotlight is slowly focused upon him. He should be clothed in a long dark robe, there should be a hood on the robe with a slight peak in the rear, and the front should be drawn so that merely the face shows, with no makeup. Remember the Narrator is not a character playing a part, but recites his lines as a reader giving an historical lecture or explanation.

Synopsis

NARRATOR: Prophets and Neophytes. The drama, we are about to portray for you is neither a myth nor a legend, but is actually based upon the early history of Persia, at a period when, through dissension there came into power the second dynasty, controlled by the Sassanian Kings, under Chosroes II. During this period many strange cults of fire-worshippers sprang up in Persia, and one with a large following was that of the Prophet Mokanna. This Prophet had been afflicted with a terrible disease known as the black small pox, but so that his followers would not see his affliction, he covered his face with a veil, and told them that he was descended from God and that his eyes were so dazzling that humans, until purified, could not look upon his face.
To Enable the Neophyte to join the ranks of this Prophet, it was necessary that he undertake a long and dangerous journey, overcome all obstacles and return with the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm, which the Prophet dedicated as Truth. Neophytes, soon you will be introduced into the presence of the Veiled Prophet, the Great Mokanna One of you will be chosen lo venture forth in quest of the Priceless Jewel! His journey will take him through the haunted forest to the borderland between earth and hell into the land of Erebus, the God of Darkness, where he is beset by Melancholy and Despair and other dwellers of this Realm of shade. A stranger in a strange land, he is warned to depart, but heedless of all warnings, he wanders near the borders of the forbidden land where he is discovered by Cerberus, the Watchdog, who guards the entrance to Hades, and is taken before Minos the Chief Justice and Executioner of the Underworld.
His Satanic Majesty is summoned, and the mortal condemned to the usual tortures from which he is saved by Rhadamanthus, the kind and just judge, who discovered that he had stood in the northeast corner of the lodge. The Neophyte is put to the Supreme Test. He makes a perilous journey, beset by all the horrors of the underworld but finally with the assistance of old Charon, he safely crosses the River Styx, where he is again met by his Satanic Majesty, who congratulates him upon his successful journey, and tries to reward him by making him a full fledge Imp. However, because the light of good-fellowship is discovered shining on his brow, he is driven from Hell at the order of his majesty who gives him the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm which was all that remained to remind him of his lost estate. The quest is ended. The powers of evil have been overcome by a heart glowing with sympathy and a countenance beaming with the war of goodfellowship.
The purpose of this drama is primarily initiation, but it also serves as a noble example of the Neophyte overcoming all obstacles and returning with the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm, and culminates in a grand climax, when the Neophyte returns triumphant and is hailed with joyous enthusiasm and acclamation amid the splendor of Mokanna’s court. And now on with the play.
Spotlight off and curtain up on the Mokanna Court Scene.
Goodfellow: Ha! Ha! Ho! Ho! so this is earth, where mortals dwell,
The place they leave when they go to Hell!
And there tonight, if you’d like to know,
Is exactly where you indicating all candidates are going to go.
Yes, good friends—and I have many, many such—
Who treat me rather well—and, I hope—love me much.
So, ere the descent we really start,
My name—to you I shall impart—
Well—I am—just a “Goodfellow”
Whose duty is for you to arrange
A journey thru regions mystic and strange.
So then—In the name of our Mighty Mokanna, our Veiled Prophet Chief, I ask that you imagine yourselves living about 1200 years ago, when this Mighty Mokanna conquered and ruled the land of Persia. You will be commanded by him to set forth on a quest—to proceed on a journey—and seek the Priceless Jewel of The Enchanted Realm. One of you will be designated—specially chosen—personally honored to physically make this journey, which will be a thrilling and dangerous one. So now—let us go back—back 100 years—another hundred—500 years—1,000 years—1,200 years. Behold! We find ourselves in the court and in the presence of the Veiled Prophet Mokanna himself.
Spotlight off and curtain up on Mokanna scene.

SCENE 1
MOKANNA COURT

This can be as elaborate an ancient Persian Court as you care to make it. It is recommended, however, that it be confined, if possible, to only half-stage depth, thus permitting the main part of the Caldron or Grotto Scene to be pre-set. This also permits the Haunted Forest drop to be lowered in front of the main properties of this scene, and then removed QUIETLY while the Haunted Forest scene is in progress. The Veiled Prophet is seated on his throne in rear of stage, left of center, the shrine can be upstage in center, or it can be a little to the right, of these positions. Mokanna’s throne and shrine can be reversed. These scenes can be dressed up with courtiers, guards, magicians, entertainers, etc. Music and entertainment can be in progress as curtain rises and continues for a few minutes, then Sarpedon, down right addressing Mokanna, says: Oh, Mighty Mokanna! These Neophytes, all bravoy and belief, bow in suppliance before thy throne, and vow subservience to thy laws and mysteries till in the grave.
MOKANNA: Neophytes, we greet ye! Welcome to our glorious standard.
Standard can be on stage and referred to by indication, or brought in by guard and placed and referred to at the time.
From this hour ye are forever bound to my service. Yet, ere ye can enter into my Fellowship and stand with the faithful of the Realm, ye must be proved worthy by supreme tests. He on whom the lot shall Fall must make the quest through Earth and Air, through grisly paths of black despair, the flaming depths of Hell must dare, for the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm. Are ye, all bravery and belief, still minded to join my faithful host?
NEOPHYTES: I am.
MOKANNA: Then bow thy luckless heads, the lot shall fall. Sarpedon, cast the fateful lot.
Sarpedon draws name from urn or vase and reads slowly the name of the candidate selected. Grand Chamberlain brings him on stage and places robe on him.
A very effective way to get name is to have iron kettle on stage with small electric heating unit in same. Sarpedon has small can with a little ‘black powder in it which he throws into iron pot as the powder hits the heat unit, up comes a cloud of smoke, out of which Sarpedon appears to read the name of candidate.
MOKANNA: When fell the fateful lot, Neophytes, ye faltered not. Thus proven, all bravery and belief, I take ye for mine own, bounden forever to my throne. Go forth at the trumpet’s call, my glorious banner to uphold.
Then turning to Neophyte But woe to see thou luckless wight, clothed in pilgrim garb. Seek thou alone the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm. Thy quest will lead thee to the depth of Hell, to that place of horrors, where demons dwell. May the genial glow of a vision splendid attended thy quest in triumph ended.
Ere thou depart, I present thee an amulet.
Sarpedon procures the amulet, which is a Grotto emblem on a cord. It can be on a small stand near Mokanna. He hands it to Mokanna who places it around the Neophyte’s neck like a necklace.
Wear thou it constantly, for it holds a charm to shield thee from all danger and harm.
And now, Sarpedon, conduct the bewildered hopeful to the edge of the Haunted Forest, that mystic and gruesome domain, betwixt earth and hell. Thou wilt there leave him alone. Then addressing Neophyte: Thou wilt be dolorously and ghoulishly greeted by gloomy denizens and demons that inhabit the regions through which thou wilt pass. Dependent upon thy deportment, courage, cheerfulness, depth of sincerity and honesty of purpose will be the reception and personal treatment which thou wilt experience through the ordeals which will surely follow. And so, farewell!
Trumpet blows, and Sarpedon slowly conducts Neophyte off stage as curtain falls.
At end of Mokanna Court Scene curtain closes and lights dim out, then green spotlight upon Goodfellow, who has taken his place in front of curtain as before. Note: Stage crew should now QUIETLY remove or “Strike” the Mokanna scene and place the Haunted Forest drop in place. This drop should be “down stage.” i e, towards the audience and about four or five feet if possible behind the front curtain. This change can be made in a fraction of a minute. The Mokanna scene should be set in not more than half stage—i e., about half way back This arrangement also enables the Caldron and Caldron drop be pre-set. That is all set before the show starts. In this way you merely “take away” for the first few scenes, or set while one scene is being played. (QUIETLY, of course.)
Stage crew prepares Haunted Forest scene. Good-fellow on and green spotlight on him.
GOODFELLOW: Leaving the court of Mokanna you will again use your imagination and we will go far—far—faraway to the land of Mythology—This line should be done slowly and impressively with a slow sweeping gesture and with the proper expression on the face and with the eyes, indicating the mental transportation to the realms of mythology where you will find strange creatures mocking at you—Melancholy and Despair will grip your soul—but—with your hope, determination, laughter and reason—you persistently journey on—so—again let us travel farther—farther on into the realm of phantasy—into the land of Mythology—to that region of horrors—betwixt Earth and Hell—the Haunted Forest!
Spotlight out—Goodfellow slinks off and curtain up on Haunted Forest Scene—in blue or green light—at end of scene as Melancholy drives Neophyte to his “doom”—lights slowly out—curtain down—Goodfellow in place and green spotlight on him—remove Haunted Forest drop and have Caldron ready—lighted in red.

SCENE TWO
THE HAUNTED FOREST

This should be set in what we call one or one and one-half. Which means down stage, utilizing about one-third or one-fourth of the stage depth. This enables the stage crew to QUIETLY strike or remove the Mokanna Court scene and set the Caldron or Grotto scene.
The Haunted Forest should be dimly lighted in blue with a green spotlight focused upon MELANCHOLY, who should be squatted left of center as far back as possible. If the spotlight is used, it can be switched to catch and follow DESPAIR when he enters from left.
Remember right and left means the right and left as the actor faces the audience. Curtain up slowly, when it is up, MELANCHOLY speaks gloomily, disdainfully, slowly and with pessimistic conviction—sort of thinking out aloud.
MELANCHOLY: O! dismal abode of grief and woe, through all eternity, am I destined to linger harrowing here, stealing away the effulgence of HUMAN ASPIRATIONS endlessly the pilgrims come, endlessly I strive to disillusion them, with the philosophy of bitter truth. But all in vain, they will not heed. Shake head in disgust and apparently doze off repeating THEY will not heed. Neophyte slowly enters right, DESPAIR enters from left, sees candidate, approaches with a few steps, indicating with right hand and arm the appropriate gesture in an exaggerated manner as he speaks slowly with a huge SARDONIC self-satisfied and sarcastic grin.
DESPAIR: Come, come, my dear fellow, come! I am DESPAIR, you know—and may take ANYONE. Nodding head. Yes, I torture and twist the mind—thwart worldly ambitions, cajole into madness, even lead to SUICIDE, Ha-Ha-Ha-Ha! I have been lurking, in the background of your being for a long, long time, and have followed you closely since Sarpedon left you at the edge of this forest. You have been hopelessly, aimlessly, wandering for many days, and, I ask you, what for! WHAT FOR, I ask! Why? stepping closer to him and smiling. I am getting closer, closer, with hopelessness, despondency, desperation. These, I give you getting a closer look at his face, then with a change of intonation and a slight step backward What? Thou fearest me not but appear joyous and contended, BAH! I like this not in thee. Smiles, laughter, the joy of doing for others, contentment, happiness, these characteristics in mortals are not to my liking! They only frustrate the aims of despair. Angrily seizing him—on the last few words above—menacingly steps up to candidate, looking him in the eye and seizing him fiercely by the right arm, holds the position a few seconds without moving, then with a satisfied grin): Ah! That is better, now come, come with me to the cave of DESPAIR. Take Neophyte by left arm and start a few steps toward center, as WIZARD enters from left, sees DESPAIR and Neophyte, peers at them with astonishment and wonder, then speaks.
WIZARD: Despair!
DESPAIR: Ah! You old WIZARD, you here again. You who fear not DESPAIR.
WIZARD, laughingly: Yes, ‘tis I, the old WIZARD, who have mastered thee and fear thee not, I laugh at thee, Ho! Ho! Ho! Get thee gone, go join thy companions Melancholy and Confusion.
WIZARD: Away with you. Away!
DESPAIR leaves and slinks off right first entrance, WIZARD then approaches Neophyte, scrutinizes him from all sides, feels him, then, apparently satisfied, nodding his head, speaks. WIZARD should not show anger, but rather kindly advice.
Thou are indeed flesh and blood, another mortal that has dared to enter this dread domain twixt earth and hell, where spectors dwell, and fearful Despair, and brooding Melancholy warps thy very soul, Mortal, heed my warning, thou are not welcome here. Depart, ere vials of wrath break upon thy defenseless head and overwhelm thee with unutterable woe. I tell thee go. Turns back to Neophyte and starts to walk away, stops, looks over shoulder, acts surprised to see Neophyte still there. What, thou wilt not? Ah, well, be it so. Fools were ever bold and rush in where angels fear to tread. List, Oh, Neophyte! I could to thee a tale unfold, whose lightest word would harrow up thy soul, freeze thy young blood, make thy two eyes like stars start from their sockets, thy knotted locks to part, and each particular hair to stand on end like quills of the fretful porcupine looking hint over with a knowing smirk. But—nay—I will not! I leave thee to thy fate seeing and indicating Melanchol. Yea, e’en now brooding and mournful Melancholy hovers near. Fare thee well, fare thee well. Exits right gleefully, chuckling.
MELANCHOLY, rising and crossing to Neophyte, looking him over and to him: Alas, as I thought, another pilgrim, and as usual, rosy with hope’s glowing fire.
O child of hope, turn back! While there is yet time and opportunity, turn from yon unattainable goal toward which thine unreasoning, over-mastering ambition impells thee. Behold the perilous path thou must tread, the dangers thou must meet, the obstacles thou must surmount to win the golden goal of thy dreams, behold, and TREMBLE! Oh, I implore thee, heed well the solemn admonition they afford and turn from this fatal threshold. And what if thou succeed? What if thou win the reward of thy quest and hear the cheers of victory? Of what avail? What, fool, thou smilest? Knowest that laughter and smiles are mine enemies? Thou art endeavoring to conquer and frustrate MELANCHOLY? Short pause. Thou disdainest my advice? Thou fool, FOOL, blind and obstinate FOOL! On then, to thy destruction, I’ll test well the mettle of thy will, and he of the skull and cross bones, he of the scythe and coffin will vanquish thee at last. On to thy doom, ON TO THY DOOM! ON TO THY DOOM! Lights dim down and slow curtain.
When curtain falls on Haunted Forest Scene—GREEN spotlight on for Goodfellow—stage crew removes Haunted Forest drop and should be ready for Caldron scene, which has been pre-set.
GOODFELLOW: Thy doom! Thy doom! Ha! Ha! Ho! Ho!
Soon you will truly find yourself in the Infernal Regions—at the borders of Gehenna—that place of terror and torture—demons will discover and torment you—the great Lucifer himself will quiz you. Spotlight off Goodfellow. Lights and curtain up on Caldron scene.

SCENE THREE
EARTHWARD BANK OF THE RIVER STYX OR CALDRON SCENE

A cavern or cave scene makes an excellent setting for this act. With the Caldron back in center, this should be so constructed that a person can be placed in it and later removed, flame and fire effects under and about the Caldron, these effects can be worked out by those interested in lighting and stage mechanics. The stage lighting should be predominantly RED. Flash effects for the entrance of His Majesty are also effective.
At the rise of the curtain, the Grand Marshal is discovered. He gazes inquiringly off stage, left—crosses to left, peers warningly, decides the red light is glaring, then hurriedly crosses to right and calls.
GRAND MARSHAL: Dwellers of the realm of shade! crosses to left and calls off stage in that direction.
Dwellers of the realm of shade! crosses back to center and facing front, continues as Imps, and Charon, enter from both sides.
Assemble in grim mysterious council. The red lights glare and mortals wander near our borders.
To Chief Justice who has entered from left: To you, most mighty Chief Justice, who knows not what mercy is, His Majesty has proclaimed that you carry out his mandates and that you execute his commands on the victim last brought before him.
CHIEF JUSTICE: Are our borders securely guarded?
GRAND MARSHAL: Bravest sentinels are now guarding all our borders.
MINOS (C. J.): ‘Tis well, come, ye Imps of Torture, turn on your fiercest flames Busy imps at Caldron, flames roaring, etc. And armed with burning tridents, gleaming forks, and barbed spears, execute His Majesty’s commands, unseasoned with mercy, until the luckless mortal shall howl and curse the hour that brought him here. Bring forth the victim.
Victim is dragged out by Imps, he escapes, is captured, then placed in Caldron. Drive deep your forks into his q-u-i-v-e-r-i-n-g flesh, Ha! Ha! Ha! The above speech or something similar can be “ad libitum” a time or two, with appropriate action and gestures from Imps. Drive deep your forks of F-I-R-E into his quivering flesh. Wind round him RED HOT CHAINS. Then gleefully chuckling, turn front and towards left and see Cerberus and Neophyte about to enter from down left, then with a change of expression to sternness, read following line with stern sarcasm, burn it right in, to Neophyte, eye to eye, while taking a few steps in his direction, as you do this, Imps, etc., notice where your eyes are focused. Charon also notices the intruder and ‘springs forward to meet him and Cerberus Cross axes and stop them down left, or down right should you prefer they make their entrance from that spot. If so, the Chief Justice must change gaze, etc., accordingly.)
CHARON: Back! Back! I say, upon your lives, turn back! There are sights and scenes here that no mortal may look upon.
CERBERUS to CHARON: Stand from my path and let me pass. I have a duty to perform, which brooks not of delay. Stand back, I say. Attempts to pass, is resisted by Charon.
CHARON: Once more I warn you back, another step and I will hurl you to destruction.
MINOS: Cerberus, what means this untimely interruption of our duty? Are you mad that you would bring another victim here, ere this one is disposed of? Speak, if thou has ought to say.
CERBERUS: Most mighty Chief Justice, this vase is dire and urgent, and brooks not delay. While keeping watch and ward upon the outmost borders of our Realm. my faithful Imps suddenly surprised this monster of the upper air. Summoned by them I made a swift examination, and found him as you see, a hoofless, hornless, tailless anthropos. Whereupon. I seized and brought him to this dread presence. Behold, he awaits your will.
MINOS: ‘Tis well. And yet, it may be ILL for him. Cerberus, you were faithful to your duty and none too quick in its discharge. What seeks he?
CERBERUS: From being found within our borders, we judge he seeks to gain an entrance to our Realm.
MINOS:
What purpose can he have in this?
CERBERUS: From the manner in which he is clothed, we judge his purpose is to gain a knowledge of our mysteries.
MINOS: His curiosity may cost him dear. Can you avouch his sincerity?
CERBERUS: I cannot.
MINOS: Will you say he is no spy?
CERBERUS: I will not.
MINOS: Dare you recommend him to our mercy?
CERBERUS: I dare not.
GRAND MARSHAL, from Caldron and indicating victim therein: Most, mighty Chief Justice, our victim here is in a swoon. What shall we do with him?
MINOS: Remove him—to—to the torture chamber. Victim is removed and placed on floor, and carried off at the word “Go”. Pour molten brimstone down his throat till he revives, and then proceed. But stay, Grand Marshal looking at Neophyte let ten fold keener tortures be prepared for fresher victims. Go!
GRAND MARSHAL, as victim is removed from stage: Turn on your fiercest flames, until this Caldron roars and these chains grow white with heat. During the above Cerberus should edge the Neophyte about center stage and leave him there, then the Chief Justice goes towards him, looks him over, as he laughs.
MINOS: Ha! Ha! Ho! Ho! Crossing to left of Neophyte. Come, ye Imps. Imps come down, two on each side of Chief Justice.
MINOS (pointing to victim): Heat up the Caldron with flames of fire—
And make this guilty wretch expire.
We’ll steam up his flesh and heat his bones—
Laugh at his cries and hiss his groans.
IMP NO. 1 steps forward and points at victim: We’ll scratch out his name—his footprints hide—
And forget that he ever lived or died.
IMP NO. 2, steps forward and points at victim: Leave not one mark or spot to show
That he entered Hades here below.
IMP NO. 3, steps forward and points at victim: So foul and vile a wretch as he—
Should burn and then forgotten he.
IMP NO. 4, steps forward and points at victim: So throw on the fuel—stir up the fire—
And let the guilty wretch expire.
CHIEF JUSTICE, walking down stage and pointing to Neophytes: And now you know what’s in store for you—
If you are not faithful brave and true.
So Mortals all consider well—
Before you start that path to hell.
MINOS: Demons, this interruption of our duty and this last invasion of our Realm demands our swift attention. But the case transcends our powers and necessitates the presence of His Majesty. Let the grand alarm be given.
The grand alarm is given by three strokes on a loud sounding gong or bell. It could be done by the Grand Marshal on stage or by someone off stage. His Majesty appears in a glory of red light, all salute His Majesty, then after a moment of silence, he proceeds, with stern and solemn tone, as follows: Minos, Chief Justice of the Realm, what dire necessity has come that you should call me to this throne of judgment?
MINOS: Your Majesty, while carrying out your mandate on him last brought before you, we were suddenly surprised and interrupted by Cerberus, who on the outmost borders of our Realm, had captured yonder luckless mortal. Behold, he awaits your will.
HIS MAJESTY: Has he been avouched for?
MINOS: He has not.
HIS MAJESTY: Cerberus, faithful watch-dog of the Realm, had he no word, nor sign, nor rare endowment by which he gained a rightful entrance to our Plutonian Shades?
CERBERUS: Your Majesty, he had no word, nor sign; and, as for rare endowments, umph! He had neither hoof, horns, nor tail.
HIS MAJESTY: What! Caught within our borders thus! His doom and destiny are self-pronounced. Short shrift we’ll make of him. Seize and bind him for the caldron. Let all the furies of the Realm assemble. Let fiercest fires ...
RHADAMANTHUS, rushes on stage and interrupts His Majesty: Your Majesty! Your Majesty!
HIS MAJESTY, impatiently: Well?
RHADAMANTHUS: Lend me your ears for one brief moment. I know this hoofless, hornless, tailless Anthropos and have his record here. Throws out roll of paper or scroll of black cloth, about 12 feet long and 1 foot wide, so that it will unroll on floor. ‘Tis dark and dubious, but one thing may be said of him, he has stood in the Northeast Corner of the Lodge.
HIS MAJESTY: Has stood in the Northeast Corner of the Lodge? Said slowly and impressively, then a pause, as if considering.) If this be true, it only gives him respite for further trials. Release him. Neophyte is released, Demons and Imps gather round caldron and fix their eyes on Neophyte, profound silence for a moment, then His Majesty proceeds. Rhadamanthus, is there anything further we should know before proceeding?
RHADAMANTHUS: There is, Your Majesty. First, his presumption soars so high that he regards himself the peer of any in this Realm. All whistle. Second, his ambition is so vaulting and o’erleaping that he will not be satisfied until he is possessed of the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm. All groan and last, his egotism is so towering and top-lofty that, among the beings of the upper lair, he accounts himself a very devil of a fellow. Ha! Ha! Ha!
HIS MAJESTY: Miserable Anthropos, among the being of the upper air you have a fable of a frog which ambitioned to become an ox. Its fate should make the bravest hesitate. Ambition, Presumption, Egotism spell out destruction to a mortal. To which of these do you plead guilty?
CERBERUS, after consulting with Neophyte: To all of these, Your Majesty, and indeed much more.
HIS MAJESTY: To all and much more. This is the very climax of bravado. Mortal, attend my words, You are now in the Realm of Darkness, situated on the earthward bank of the River Styx whose deep dark waters surge between you and the lurid shores beyond. You are soon to be ferried across the Stygian flood, at a point just above the awful whirlpool, by old Charon himself. Summon to your aid all your fortitude, gather up your mightiest powers, for you are now called upon to meet the supreme moment of your life. But remember, henceforth, you must act and answer for yourself. Are you ready?
NEOPHYTE: I am. If Neophyte does not answer promptly, Cerberus should answer for him by saying, “He is”.
HIS MAJESTY, reading scroll: It stands recorded here that he deems himself the Peer of any in this Realm; that it is his ambition to obtain the Priceless Jewel of the Enchanted Realm, and that he thinks himself a very devil of a fellow. Rhadamanthus, can all this be true?
RHADAMANTHUS: Your Majesty, it not only can be, but is. Whistle.
HIS MAJESTY: On looking him over from head to foot, then back to his face what does he base this high opinion of himself?
RHADAMANTHUS: He could say more of himself, Your Majesty, but his modesty forbids. Ha! Ha!
HIS MAJESTY: Can he give us a reason why we should think him a devil of a fellow?
RHADAMANTHUS: Reason! He has lost his reason, Your Majesty. That is the reason he is here. All groan.
HIS MAJESTY: Has lost his reason — ‘Tis enough. Addressing Neophyte: We are satisfied that you are in some respects what you claim to be, but—before you can succeed in your quest, it will be necessary for you to make the dreadful journey to Realm of Shades. It is dark and dangerous passage, but, assisted by old Charon, we hope you may succeed. You will therefore suffer yourself to be conducted to a place remote from this, known only to ourselves. There you will be met with kindly greetings, soothed by gentle ministrations, and conducted to your journey’s end as softly and tenderly, we hope, as tho borne on the fleecy bosom of a sunset cloud. Grand Marshal of the Realm, let bravest sentinels keep watch upon all our borders, while we retire to deeper shades and more important duties. Momentous is the hour. Our watch words: Silence and Eternal Vigilance.
All on stage repeat solemnly: “Silence and Eternal Vigilance.”
On lines “Silence and Eternal Vigilance”—done slowly and in deep voice—gradually getting deeper and slower—dim lights slowly and close curtain likewise to blackout, then Goodfellow in place and green spotlight up as before. Strike Caldron scene and put Tomb scene on. This is also well down stage, towards audience, so that Storm scene can be set QUIETLY, OF COURSE—while Tomb scene is being played.
GOODFELLOW:
Ha! Ha! Ho! Ho! Tortures, painful tortures, are non being prepared for you. Pluto will sentence you to the tomb—the tomb—Oh yes, that rhymes with DOOM. Remember—”to thy Doom?” Ha! Ha! Cerberus, the faithful watch-dog of the Realm, will conduct you to that gruesome abode. In due time the order will be given for your release, and you will emerge therefrom only to be warned of further and more dismal and FATAL terrors that await you if you persist in your quest. Your determination is adamant—you—being the “master of your fate,” cheerfully press on. Then it is that old Charon, the faithful ferryman of the river Styx, is summoned— But first: on to the ghoulish domain, that final and dismal abode that awaits you all—the clammy, clammy tomb. These last words very slowly and with a grin.
Goodfellow off and tomb scene on.

SCENE 4
THE SILENT TOMB

Opens with tomb scene, to be worked in front of drop immediately back of first entrance. While stage crew is preparing storm scene.
CERBERUS, enters stage from left wing down stage opposite tomb with Neophyte, then proceeds as follows: Mortal, you have but a few brief moments to prepare for that which awaits you. Swiftly and silently the powers of darkness are gathering for your destruction. Repair to yon lonely tomb, where, shut within its dark and loathsome walls, in company with ghastly forms of death, prepare your mind in silent meditation to endure the terrible ordeal that awaits you.
Cerberus conducts Neophyte to tomb.
CERBERUS, reading inscription over tomb entrance: “Abandon hope all ye who enter here.”
Neophyte enters tomb.
HIS MAJESTY, enters from right, impressively: ‘Tis now the witching time of night when graveyards yawn, and Hell itself breathes out contagion to the world. This is the time when screech-owls cry and ban-dogs howl; when dead men’s graves are opened and the sheeted dead do squeak and gibber in the streets. ‘Tis the time when Melancholy sets a-brooding on the hearts of men, when black-robed Conscience wrings their souls and makes them cry in anguish for light to end the torments of the night. Groans off stage. Hark, what sound was that?
CERBERUS: ‘Tis the wailing of a tormented soul.
HIS MAJESTY: A tormented soul, how I love the wailing of a tormented soul.
Demons, let down more closely the sable shades of night, that we may be undisturbed, for we have wild and dreadful work to do. Pauses. Cerberus, if the mortal still lives, bring him forth from the tomb.
Cerberus brings Neophyte before His Majesty.
HIS MAJESTY: Charon faithful ferryman of the Styx enter Charon from right prepare your craft, summon your bravest crew, for the waves roll heavily tonight, and this luckless mortal must cross the Stygian flood pointing to Neophyte.
CHARON, in loud voice: