The Unmarried Mother

The Stage, 22 July 1915, reviewed C. Vernon Proctor’s drama The Unmarried Mother which was presented at the Elephant and Castle on Monday 19 July 1915. The cast was: Private Walter Newton, Sydney Grant; Lieut. Dennis Allen, Roland Hope; Gerald Blake, J. Scott Leighton; John Chalmers, Conrad Clerke; Martha Chalmers, Ella Sennett; Ethel Chalmers, Olive Jeffrey; Mrs. O’Goblin, Amy Wood; Jimmy O’Goblin, Sammy Johns; The Chaplain at the Hospital, Archie Grant; Eileen, the Unmarried Mother, Laurie Adair. The setting was: Sc. 1, A Room in Chalmer’s House, London; Sc. 2, Near the Dock, Porthampton; Sc. 3, Mrs O’Goblin’s Cottage, Porthampton; Sc. 4, A Room in Chalmers’s House, London; Sc. 5, A Street in London; Sc. 6, A Hospital in London. The review continued: ‘The author of The Unwanted Child, C. Vernon Proctor, has now attempted a eulogy, a regular panegyric, of the “Unmarried Mother,” in his new play of that supposedly topical title, brought out by Mr. Oswald Cray at the Elephant and Castle this week. It was received with much not altogether discriminating applause on Monday afternoon by a popular audience that took up with warm approval such assertions of the unfortunate heroine as that she became “the unmarried mother of a soldier’s child before she could be his wife,” because “the laws of Nature were stronger than the laws of man,” adding that “a mother is more sacred than a wife,” and that “It is every woman’s right to be a mother.” All the same, the sad case of Eileen, who had somehow been prevented from marrying Private Walter Newton, of the Porthampton Battalion of Kitchener’s Army, before he went to the War, whence he returned grievously wounded, a Sergeant, and a V.C., was scarcely paralleled by the happier lot of her quasi-stepsister, Ethel Chalmers, who was duly married by Lieutenant Dennis Allen, a genial young Irishman in the R.A.M.C., before he crossed the Channel. However, Eileen quite won the sympathy of the house in all her woes and vicissitudes, which included an attempt to poison her baby Walter’s milk made by her most unnatural father, Gerald Blake, who had wanted to marry Ethel himself, and had, before the action opened, made Martha (afterwards the second Mrs. Chalmers) the “unmarried mother” of Eileen. “Like mother, like daughter,” it may be said, though at the end Eileen is made “an honest woman,” and her child is apparently legitimised, by her being married to Newton on his supposed death-bed in hospital. He makes an astonishing speedy and complete recovery, for, after having been given up by the Hospital Chaplain, who, apparently in default of doctors, seems to be in charge of the case, Newton suddenly, in the middle of a harangue, bethinks himself of getting married at once to Eileen. Among the necessary appliances used are his prayer-book (which he had sent with his V.C. to Eileen, in a parcel which she had left unopened) and the wedding-ring, which he had bought in Flanders, and had been wearing round his neck. Less improbable and more interesting than this dénouement and Eileen’s preceding and semi-blasphemous tirade are the transformation wrought by love for Eileen in a lazy lout and loafer bearing the melodramatically familiar name of Jimmy (often used to denote a gold coin), who finally enlists and becomes a very smart lad in khaki, and some sayings of his lenient and sensible mother. Expressing doubts as to whether Eileen had behaved rightly, Mrs. O’Goblin, however, keeps an open mind, for she observes, “This War has changed one’s views about everything,” and “The whole world seems to have been turned upside down.” Blake, in the end, meets with his deserts [sic], for he is thrashed soundly by the indignant Mr. Chalmers, and is then run over by a taxi after trying to strangle the unfortunate Martha, who had been one of his many victims. Mr. Vernon Proctor, it should be noted, has been as ready as other contemporary dramatists, to catch the spirit of the time as it flies by, for, when Eileen is turned out of doors by Chalmers, and Ethel accompanies her into exile, he makes the former become a uniformed railway-ticket collector (though she loses her post through Blake’s machinations), and Ethel a similarly attired tram-conductor. Vigorously played by the members of Mr. Oswald Cray’s company, this “latest drama on the Burning Question of the Day,” seems quite to the hearts of the patrons of the Elephant ... The Unmarried Mother is pretty sure to do well on tour in the drama-houses’. The Stage, 29 July 1915, published a letter from C. Vernon Proctor: ‘To the editor of The Stage. Sir,- In your excellent criticism of [The Unmarried Mother] your correspondent talks of Eileen’s “semi-blasphemous tirade” at the end of the play. That the outburst is daring I do not deny; that it is blasphemous, I do. It jerks one out of orthodoxy, but that is a good thing, as the present times witness to the utter failure of religion. The fact that the heroine demands justice of God in passionate terms, and that that demand is answered in the unexpected ending of the play, is not only not blasphemous, but is intended to restore faith in the goodness of God, which the state of Europe is making us doubt. That there is something wrong somewhere in our practice of religion no one can deny, and The Unmarried Mother is a sincere attempt to bring us back to the faith of which we are all losing grip’. Also: ‘Mr. C. Vernon Proctor’s play should certainly be of some service to the recruiting sergeant as it contains many direct appeals to the patriotic sentiment’ (The Era, 28 July 1915). In an advertisement in The Stage, 29 July 1915, Oswald Cray claimed that The Unmarried Mother took £336 0s 1d the previous week at the Elephant and Castle: ‘£100 to anyone who can prove these are not my actual returns. Refer Charles Barnard, who has booked it to return in a few weeks as so many hundreds were turned away on the Saturday night'.

Mentioned in an advertisement in The Stage, 29 July 1915.

Mentioned in an advertisement in The Stage, 29 July 1915.

‘At the Bordesley Palace Theatre last night, Mr. Oswald Cray presented a play, “The Unmarried Mother,” dealing with a topical problem. Mr. Cray’s company is a capable one, and Miss Laurie Adair takes the part of Eileen, whose story provides the plot of a play containing many thrilling incidents’. Birmingham Mail, 10 August 1915.

When Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 12 August 1915, both The Unmarried Mother and Walter Saltoun’s The Abode Of Love, his address for the following week was the Elephant and Castle Theatre, London, but with an implication that The Abode Of Love was to be staged there.

‘A new play, described as “a drama dealing with the burning question of the day,” is to be presented for the first time on Merseyside at the New Theatre Royal, Birkenhead, next week. Coupled with the above-mentioned description, its title, “The Unmarried Mother,” may be said to speak for itself. There is a heroine in a lamentable plight, and a soldier-lover' (Birkenhead News, 21 August 1915). ‘What is described as Mr. Oswald Cray’s “latest drama on the burning question of the day” is being presented at the New Theatre Royal this week. It is entitled “The Unmarried Mother,” and is from the pen of C. Vernon Proctor. The play revives, in a very definite and unqualified way, the “war baby” question, which gave rise to considerable controversy a few months ago. Generally speaking, the author had no lack of dramatic precedents for dealing with the social and moral position of the young unmarried mother. Some of the more conspicuous examples of plays of this type will readily be called to mind. In the play under notice, however, Mr. Proctor has taken the “war” aspect of the subject. It is to be regretted that he has so openly exalted what he calls “the law of love” over the law of morality, and has thought fit to preach the doctrine that a girls [sic] commits no wrong if she brings on motherhood, so. long as her soldier sweetheart conies bask and marries her later on. He had good dramatic material without, for the play works up to denouements of considerable force and pathos. The story concerns a girl who is in the position of a servant in the house of a man of good social. standing. There is a secret, however, which, when revealed, shows a prior moral fall very much like her own, except that there was affection in one case, and villainy in the other' (Birkenhead News, 25 August 1915).

Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 16 September 1915, that the gross takings at the Theatre Royal, Chatham the previous week were £424 17s 10d with his South Company.

Mentioned in an advertisement in The Stage, 9 September 1915. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 16 September 1915, that the actual takings at the Prince’s Theatre, Bradford on the Saturday night were £114 1s 6d with his North Company.

‘“The Unmarried Mother” is being produced at the Darlington Theatre Royal this week. The author, Mr. C. Vernon Proctor, has treated a delicate subject in a delicate manner and though some of his views may not meet with the approval of many people, yet one spends a very happy two hours in witnessing the piece. Mr Oswald Gray’s [sic - Cray's] company is an excellent one, and last night they presented the piece in faultless manner ... It is a capital play, well produced and acted, and deserves better houses than it drew last night’. North Star (Darlington), 14 September 1915.

When J. H. Clyndes of The Unmarried Mother company inserted theatrical cards in The Stage, 9 and 16 September 1915, his address for the week beginning 13 September was the E., Southend.

‘Many points touching upon a problem much discussed at the present time are disclosed in Mr. Oswald Cray’s drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” which is making a first appearance at the Queen’s Theatre this week. The play, which is full of interest and surprises, deals chiefly with the hardships endured by a young girl-mother, whose marriage is postponed by the sudden call of her soldier lover to France' (Leeds Mercury, 21 September 1915). ‘A widely-discussed problem - that of the relationship between soldiers and girls - is ventilated in Mr. Oswald Cray’s initial presentation of “An Unmarried Mother” at the Queen’s Theatre this week. Private Newton is hurriedly called away to the front as he is on the point of marrying the heroine, and during his absence she becomes a mother. Meantime, she is jeered at and ridiculed when she refers to her lover’s loyalty, and of his good intentions, and Mr. Gerald Blake, a man of the world, plots unceasingly against her happiness, but, of course, he fails in his dastardly schemes. It is an absorbing play, and the plot is cleverly worked out' (Yorkshire Evening Post, 21 September 1915).

Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 30 September 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] Turned Away last Saturday Night at the Theatre Royal, Leigh with my South Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

‘“The Unmarried Mother” illustrates a story only too often told in real life. It is from the pen of C. Vernon Proctor, and is well acted at the Osborne. Laurie Adair, in the title role, is the most prominent member of Oswald Cray’s company’ (Manchester Evening News, 28 September 1915). ‘Mr Oswald Cray presents here this week an effective contribution to one of the burning social questions of the war, “The Unmarried Mother,” a pithy and sympathetic drama by C. Vernon Proctor' (The Era, 29 September 1915). ‘We are having a first visit from Oswald Cray’s company, with The Unmarried Mother, which won the sympathies of Monday’s audience. Laurie Adair appears in the title-rôle with pathos and womanly tact, scoring a success, and able support comes from a well-balanced company’ (The Stage, 30 September 1915). Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 7 October 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] Turned Away Last Saturday Night at the Osborne Theatre, Manchester, with my North Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 7 October 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] Turned Away last Saturday Night at the Grand Theatre, Halifax, with my South Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

The Stage, 7 October 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 4 October at the Empire, Edmonton. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 14 October 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] Turned Away Last Saturday Night at the Empire, Edmonton, with my North Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 14 October 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] Turned Away Last Saturday Night at the Prince’s Theatre, Blackburn with my South Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 21 October 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] turned away Last Saturday Night at the Theatre Royal, Yarmouth, with my North Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

Advertised in the West London Observer, 8 October 1915. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 21 October 1915, that ‘Zeppelin Raids [were] Defeated. All records [were] broken at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith, Last Saturday Night with my South Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

The Stage, 21 October 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 18 October at the Elephant, London.

The Stage, 14 and 21 October 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 18 October at the Royal, Bristol.

‘There is a strong drama at the Hippodrome, Accrington this week. It is “The Unmarried Mother” presented by Mr. Oswald Gray [sic], it deals with a present day social problem. It is the eternal triangle of a man, a woman and another man, but in this play it is all the more impressive as the scenes are woven round a topical social problem. The story of how Eileen, the unmarried mother, was spurned by John Chalmers, the man of the unbending will, because her soldier lover had gone to the war before they were made man and wife, is enacted in a gripping manner ... The play was well presented last night, and it made a popular appeal to two crowded houses’ (Accrington Observer and Times, 26 October 1915). Noted in The Stage, 28 October 1915.

The Stage, 28 October 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 25 October at the Royal, Macclesfield. ‘Oswald Cray’s company, with The Unmarried Mother, are here, receiving marked favour (The Stage, 28 October 1915).

‘Problem plays have created many huge sensations in the past, and a play that has created one of the biggest sensations of all is the “Unmarried Mother,” a thrilling pathetic drama from the pen of C. Vernon Proctor. This astounding play will be produced at the popular Palace Theatre during next week by Mr. Oswald Cray. The authorities tell us there are thousands of war babies expected in the United Kingdom. What is to be done with them? This vital problem of the moment is dealt with in a sympathetic, comprehensive manner in “The Unmarried Mother" ... Apart from the vital problem with which it deals, the play is a thrilling and interesting one, and can hardly fail to attract large houses’ (Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal, 29 October 1915). ‘Big houses assembled on Monday night to witness the production, at the Palace Theatre, of Mr. Oswald Cray’s latest drama, entitled “The Unmarried Mother,” a piece which has met with very great success wherever it has been seen' (Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal, 5 November 1915).

‘Vernon Proctor’s drama “The Unmarried Mother’” deals with a question which has gained much publicity. The story is ably presented by Oswald Crag’s [sic – Cray’s] company, and at the Grand Junction Theatre received a sympathetic hearing. Miss Daisy Cook in the title role gives an excellent show’. Manchester Evening News, 2 November 1915.

‘For next week the booking is one of the latest of Oswald Cray’s dramas. Miss Laurie Adair appears in the principal role of Eileen’ (Smethwick Telephone, 6 November 1915). Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 18 November 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] turned away last Saturday night at the Theatre Royal, Smethwick, with my North Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 18 November 1915, that ‘Hundreds [were] turned away last Saturday night at the Theatre Royal, Dewsbury with my South Company of “The Unmarried Mother”’.

The Stage, 11 November 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother in Calls for Monday 15 November at the Salford Royal Hippodrome. Noted in the Manchester Evening News, 13 November 1915. The Stage, 18 November 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 15 November at the Royal Hippo., Salford.

‘The Unmarried Mother, as presented by Oswald Cray’s company, is proving an attraction here. A capable cast includes Hugh Wallace, Roland Hope, J. Cook Hinton, Conrad Clarke [sic – Clerke], Ella Sennett, Pattie Dene, Amy Wood, Sammy Johns, Archie Grant, and Laurie Adair’. The Stage, 25 November 1915.

‘The tactful manner in which the latest war drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” written by C. Vernon Proctor and staged by Oswald Cray, is treated quite justifies its creation, and two capital audiences at the Preston Hippodrome last night appreciated fully the strong underlying motive of the plot and its novel characteristics. The presentation seems certain to make a wide appeal on a difficult social problem which has attracted more sympathetic attention during the past year or so. The generous infusion of healthy humour contributes not a little to the acceptability of the play as such. Presented in six scenes by a strong company, the play, some of the strongest points in which are the pointed recruiting hints to “slackers,” works up to an effective and happy climax - the wedding of a wounded soldier hero in the ward of a war hospital’ (Lancashire Evening Post, 23 November 1915). Noted in The Stage, 25 November 1915.

‘Although Eileen repeatedly proclaims the “rights” of the mother – married or unmarried – and the sacredness of motherhood, yet the play presents to the unmarried mother the way out of her difficulties – marriage. A thoroughly orthodox conclusion’. Huddersfield Daily Examiner, 30 November 1915.

The Stage, 25 November and 2 December 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 29 November at the Hippodrome, Keighley.

The Stage, 9 December 1915, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 6 December at the Rotunda, Liverpool.

‘There are many plays of the type of “The Unmarried Mother,” this week occupying the boards of the Royal Court, some of which border very closely to vulgarity, but the present production, we are pleased to say, may not be included in that category. C. Vernon Proctor has wound a fine plot on this burning question of the day, and Mr. Oswald Cray is fortunate enough in being able to have such a capable array of talent at his disposal as in the present production. This drama, judging from the attendance during the week, has met with enormous success ... A play of the type of “The Unmarried Mother” touches the audience, our pockets, and our handkerchiefs. Widnes Examiner, 18 December 1915. Also the St. Helens Examiner and the Runcorn Examiner, 18 December 1915.

Noted in The Stage, 16 December 1915: ‘The part of the unmarried mother is ably played by Laurie Adair, who gains the sympathy of the audience’.

‘”The Unmarried Mother” is the title of a drama staged at the Metropole. It is a story throbbing with human passion, weakness and strength, and is very capably presented by Mr. Oswald Cray’s Company. The cast includes Miss Daisy Cook as Eileen, the central character of the story. The play is most effectively staged and dressed’ (Daily Record, 28 December 1915). An advertisement in The Era, 12 January 1916, quoted Arthur Jefferson, managing director of the Metropole, Glasgow, as saying, ‘A. J. thanks Oswald Cray for bringing sauch an excellent cast and production, so materially responsible for the success achieved. The play is rebooked, as also various others which Mr. Cray intended to produce in due course’. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 13 January 1916, the ‘Record breaking “The Unmarried Mother.” Just finished Two Consecutive Weeks’ Phenomenal Business at the Metropole Theatre, Glasgow. Why did the above Attraction Break all Previous Records at the Metropole Theatre, Glasgow? Because, as Shakespeare says, “The Play’s the Thing.” A Perfectly Clean Play, without a Murder, Pistol Shot, or impossible Situation. That’s why it is Praised by the Press, Public, and the Clergy'.

The Stage, 6 January 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On Tour from 3 January at the Hippo., Mansfield.

The Stage, 6 January 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On Tour from 10 January at the Palace, Glossop. Noted in The Stage, 13 January 1916.

Advertised in the Shields Daily News, 10 January 1916, as ‘Mr Oswald Craig [sic] presents his latest Drama “TUM”’. Noted in The Era, 12 January 1916.

The Era, 19 January 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 17 January at the H., Bolton. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 27 January 1916, that ‘£120 10s 1d was my actual takings last Saturday night at the Hippodrome, Bolton, with “The Unmarried Mother.” … £100 reward to anyone who can prove this was not my actual return for Saturday night only'.

The Era, 19 January 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 17 January at the Olympia, Tredegar.

The Era, 26 January 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 24 January at the Pav., Morley. Similarly The Stage, 27 January 1916.

The Era, 26 January 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 24 January at the H., Stoke. Similarly The Stage, 27 January 1916. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 3 February 1916, that ‘£78 14s 3d was my Actual Takings last Saturday night at the Hippodrome, Stoke.’ With The Unmarried Mother. ‘To Unbelievers. £100 reward to anyone who can prove this was not my actual return for Saturday night only'.

The Era, 2 February 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 31 January at the Princes, Portsmouth. Similarly The Stage, 27 January and 3 February 1916. Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 10 February 1916, that ‘14,573 people paid for admission at the Prince’s Theatre, Portsmouth, last week to see “The Unmarried Mother"'.

The Era, 2 February 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 31 January at the Pal., Rochdale. Similarly The Stage, 27 January and 3 February 1916.

‘Mr. Oswald Cray presents this week at the Dalston Theatre, the drama entitled “The Unmarried Mother.” Dalstonians are always ready to follow a stage story of strong domestic interest, dramatically told and efficiently acted, and in this piece they have full opportunity of evincing their sympathy and appreciation'. The Era, 9 February 1916.

The Stage, 3 and 10 February 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On Tour from 7 February at the Imperial, Canning Town.

‘C. Vernon Proctor’s “The Unmarried Mother,” has been seen in Manchester before, but its visit to the Metropole is a most welcome one. In the title role Daisy Cook is exceedingly clever, and Oswald Cray’s company is one of considerable ability’ (Manchester Evening News, 15 February 1916). Noted in The Stage, 17 February 1916: ‘a play, bold in outline, and with sympathetic and sensational situations … capitally staged’.

‘A problem drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” will be presented next week at the Hippodrome by Mr. Oswald Cray. It is from the pen of C. Vernon Proctor, and is the greatest thing of the kind ever written. It has attractions peculiarly its own, and should draw large houses. It will be produced twice nightly’ (Surrey Mirror, 11 February 1916; also the Dorking and Leatherhead Advertiser, 12 February 1916). Noted in The Stage, 17 February 1916.

‘Mr. Oswald Cray ... is presenting a drama in six scenes entitled The Unmarried Mother, and on Monday evening the piece received a rousing reception from a large house. Some commotion was caused during the week-end by appeals being made to the authorities as to the staging of the play, and we understand that on Monday morning the Mayor (Alderman James White) had an interview with Mr. Cray, when his Worship was assured that there was nothing objectionable in the drama. The drama, which was written by C. Vernon Proctor, is cleverly constructed, and its object is vividly to portray the fact that some people are more sinned against than sinning. The company which had been engaged for its presentation is one that Mr. Cray has well selected, and, like the other which he has under its control, has been used to playing to crowded houses. It is of exceptional ability, a fact which was quickly recognised by the audience at the initial performance'. Worthing Gazette, 23 February 1916.

‘“ The Unmarried Mother,” a drama from the pen of Mr C. Vernon Proctor, is presented at the Palace Theatre by Mr Oswald Cray’s company. It deals with a question which has been the theme of much discussion, and the incidents in the lives of the girl and her soldier-lover, round whom the story is evolved, were followed closely by large audiences. The pathos of the piece is admirably portrayed, and throughout the six scenes of the production there is much to entertain and please patrons of the Haymarket house’. Newcastle Journal, 29 February 1916.

The Stage, 2 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother South) as On Tour from 28 February at the Pal., Battersea.

The Nelson Leader, 25 February 1916, advertised The Unmarried Mother at the Grand Theatre on Monday 6 March. The Era, 8 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 6 March at the Grand, Nelson. Similarly The Stage, 2 and 9 March 1916.

The Era, 8 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 6 March at the Grand, Stockton. Similarly The Stage, 2 and 9 March 1916.

‘At the Victoria Theatre next week, Mr. Oswald Gray will present a gripping drama, “The unmarried mother,” from the pen of C. Vernon Proctor, who replies to one of the burning moral questions of the day. The play has met with success everywhere produced, and has elicited favourable comment from all sections of the public, and also the clergy' (Burnley News, 4 March 1916). ‘A problem drama of unusual interest will be given at the Victoria Theatre next week in “The Unmarried Mother.” The drama will presented Mr. Oswald Grey [sic – Cray], and will be played by a very strong company, with Miss Beatrice Malvern in the role of heroine. Wherever this has been presented it has elicited the unstinted praise of the public and clergy, and should much people to arrive at a proper attitude towards the problem’ (Burnley Express, 4 March 1916). ‘A play which at once appeals strongly to the emotions and deals with the problem very often discussed in the press and pulpit, is “The Unmarried Mother,” which is presented by Mr. Oswald Cray. It is in three acts with seven scenes, and is admirably staged in every way. The play is really a doubling of the burning question of the status of the unmarried mother, and the working out of the plot is splendidly done not only illustrate that the sins of the parents are visited upon the children, but to enlist sympathy with those who have been unfortunate ... altogether the play is one effectively portraying real human nature in many phases’ (Burnley Express, 8 March 1916). ‘The drama of “The unmarried mother,” needs no more eloquent apology for its enactment in the light of modern facts, than the war, and though the moral problem which has been very vividly visualised, presents certain aspects which may shock conventionality, it must be admitted that the world's view on this burning question is changing with the changing times. The play, the title of which we have above quoted, has a distinctive mission - a mission which cannot but commend itself to the broadminded individual, for it expresses with telling force, the dictates of humanitarianism which demand woman's right to motherhood, and justice to an unnamed generation! Such a work as one saw dramatised at the Victoria Theatre on Monday night would scarcely have been tolerated in former times, but now, through such means are the public being educated to judge from an altered perspective some of the things for which the war is responsible. The play “An unmarried mother” was very favourably criticised by the audience on its first presentation to a Burnley audience. From the rise of the curtain to the closing scene, it gripped one’s interest, and appealed strongly to sentiment. The plot is a masterful one, and a tribute to the author, who has excelled with his wonderful delineation of the characters in this powerful story. As produced by Mr. Oswald Gray’s [sic – Cray’s] company, the play was thoroughly absorbing, and one soon realised the splendid talent of the artistes, all of whom were convincing in their respective parts, and often the crisp passages of dialogue left the audience with much to enthuse over. Indeed their hearty appreciation was frequently expressed in loud and spontaneous outbursts of applause, the strong patriotic note in the story being especially popular' (Burnley News, 8 March 1916).

The Era, 15 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 6 March at the H., Nuneaton. Similarly The Stage, 9 and 16 March 1916. ‘Oswald Cray’s company, with The Unmarried Mother, are attracting large audiences this week. In the cast are Hugh Wallace, Roland Hope, J. Cook-Hinton, Conrad Clerke, Maud Malvern, Pattie Dene, Amy Wood, S. Johns, A. Grant, and Beatrice Malvern’ (The Stage, 16 March 1916).

The Era, 15 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 13 March at the Grand, West Hartlepool. Similarly The Stage, 9 and 16 March 1916.

The Era, 22 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 20 March at the Alex., Hull. Similarly The Stage, 16 and 23 March 1916. Noted in The Era, 22 March 1916.

The Era, 22 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 20 March at the Emp., Rotherham. Similarly The Stage, 16 and 23 March 1916.

The Era, 29 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (North) as On The Road from 27 March at the Court, Wigan. Similarly The Stage, 23 and 30 March 1916.

The Era, 29 March 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother (South) as On The Road from 27 March at the Variety, Eastleigh. Similarly The Stage, 23 and 30 March 1916.

The Stage, 6 April 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 3 April at Brixton, London.

The Stage, 13 April 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 3 April at the Empire, Ashton-under-Lyne.

‘The Grand is occupied by Oswald Cray’s company, who are giving an excellent performance of the drama, The Unmarried Mother. Daisy Cook is distinguishing herself as Eileen, and other parts are well taken by Victor Millard, Mr. Lewis, Harry C. Robinson, J. H. Clyndes, Richard Lennard, Alan Carruthers, Mary Ainsley, Olive Jeffery, and Mrs. Henry Renouf’. The Stage, 20 April 1916.

‘Last night when “The Unmarried Mother” was presented Mr. Oswald Cray, the popular parts of the Opera House, at both performances, were crowded and people had to be turned away. The play has had a great run of success in London and the provinces and is now being toured by three companies. Many records have been broken. The author is Mr. Vernon Proctor … “The Unmarried Mother” had an enthusiastic reception last night, the audiences most sympathetically following the heroine’s fortunes, heartily applauding her acting and sentiments, and heartily disapproving of those who sought her injury. It is a very competent company, including a number of players accustomed to taking big parts ... All through the play was extremely well acted and the spectators very visibly showed the impression it made upon them - constantly cordially cheering the heroine and her friends, and as markedly demonstrating their dislike of the conduct of Blake. They were much stirred and at the close there was a furore of applause' (Coventry Evening Telegraph, 18 July 1916).

The Era, 2 August 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 31 July at the Grand, Luton. Similarly The Stage, 3 August 1916.

The North Star (Darlington), 7 August 1916, advertised Oswald Cray’s company in The Unmarried Mother.

‘A topic of which we heard a good deal at one time is revived in the play, “The Unmarried Mother,” presented at the Theatre Royal. It is not one of the happiest of subjects, but a capable company present it in an admirable manner' (Leeds Mercury, 15 August 1916). ‘As might be imagined from the title, the subject of “The Unmarried Mother,” which is at the Theatre Royal, is not one of the happiest, and while it may be in a sense topical, one can scarcely agree with the statement of the programme that it is the burning question of the day. The drama is certainly brought up to date, for in one scene we have the young mother doing war work. Whatever may be said of the subject matter, there is no mistaking the capabilities of the company’ (Yorkshire Evening Post, 15 August 1916).

The Era, 30 August 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 28 August at the T.R., Darwen. Similarly The Stage, 31 August 1916.

The Era, 30 August 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 4 September at the T.R., Liverpool. Similarly The Stage, 31 August and 7 September 1916.

‘“The Unmarried Mother” is being performed this week – a return visit – by Mr Oswald Cray’s company. There was encouraging indication last night in the large audience and the enthusiasm with which the play was received that its repetition is welcomed by patrons of this theatre. The story is a touching one, full of striking incidents, and embracing ideas on a social problem. The khaki flavour is also a popular feature, and altogether the drama is so up to date in conception and sentiment that its popularity is assured. It is presented by a thoroughly capable company. A very clever performance is given by Miss Winnie Rousby as the youthful unmarried mother, and the merit of the impersonation is that it is tactfully dealt with ... The drama should draw good houses during the week’ (Bristol Times and Mirror, 12 September 1916). 'Last night “The Unmarried Mother” was chosen, it being considered that the enthusiastic reception met with when the piece was first played here would be again forthcoming. Once more the stirring episodes in which some well-drawn characters figure aroused enthusiasm ... It will be repeated nightly during the week, and is certain be patronised largely’ (Western Daily Press, 12 September 1916).

‘“The Unmarried Mother,” presented here by Mr. Oswald Cray, has been seen on the same boards before. Its welcome lacked nothing in warmth on that account. Mr. Norman Edwardes is the juvenile lead, and Miss Lissa Young scores a success in the strongly emotional art of Eileen. Mr. Roland Hope, Mr. Wilton Richards, Miss Pattie Dene, and Miss Amy Wood also do well’. The Era, 20 September 1916.

The Era, 20 and 27 September 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 25 September at the H., Bilston. Similarly The Stage, 21 and 28 September 1916.

The Era, 27 September and 4 October 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 2 October at the H., Wednesbury. Similarly The Stage, 28 September and 5 October 1916.

The Era, 4 and 11 October 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 9 October at the Metropole, Gateshead. Similarly The Stage, 5 and 12 October 1916. Also noted separately in The Era, 11 October 1916.

The Era, 11 and 18 October 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 16 October at the O.H., Crewe. Similarly The Stage, 12 and 19 October 1916. Also mentioned in an advertisement by Oswald Cray in The Stage, 19 October 1916.

The Era, 18 and 25 October 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 23 October at the O.H., Burton. Similarly The Stage, 19 and 26 October 1916. Also mentioned in an advertisement by Oswald Cray in The Stage, 19 October 1916.

The Era, 25 October and 1 November 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 30 October at the Olympia, West Bromwich. Similarly The Stage, 26 October and 2 November 1916.

The Era, 1 and 8 November 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 6 November at the Prince’s, Portsmouth. Similarly The Stage, 2 and 9 November 1916.

The Era, 8 and 15 November 1916, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 13 November at the T.R., Woolwich. Similarly The Stage, 9 and 16 November 1916.

‘“The Unmarried Mother” is built on a case that has been disproved - the case of the war babies. It does not go very deep into this question, but it gives a number of thrills and sentiment in passing, which is perhaps all that many theatre patrons ask. There are in life some fine and pathetic instances of this condition; but the author of this play simply wallows in the pity he sees in Eileen - and puts her on an emotional throne which others more simple minded can only envy her. However, there is a saving speech in which she denounces the law that prevented her marriage with her soldier lover before he was drafted to France. The company which gives the play is a quite different one from that which was last here, and the following all do well:- Miss Lissa Young, Miss Marv Ainslie, Miss Pattie Dene, Miss Amy Wood, Mr J. Wilton Richards, Mr E. Norman Edwardes, and Mr Roland Hope’. Hull Daily Mail, 21 November 1916.

Advertising in the Birmingham Daily Gazette, 27 November 1916.

‘Next week’s attraction is The Unmarried Mother. This latest drama which deals; with one of the burning questions of the present day is sure to meet with great success. It will be produced by Mr. Oswald Cray’s Company of talented artistes’ (Barnsley Independent, 2 December 1916). Noted in The Era, 6 December 1916: ‘well acted by a capable company’.

‘At this theatre the attraction is “The Unmarried Mother,” presented by Mr. Oswald Cray. It is a problem play, and the stirring incidents which it includes evidently interested last night’s audiences. Miss Kitty Darling takes the title part with credit, and receives good support from Mr. E. Norman Edwards, Mr. Roland Hope, and Mr. J. Wilton Richards, and the other members of the company’ (Birmingham Mail, 12 December 1916). ‘The attraction at the Aston Royal this week is Mr. Oswald Cray’s company in his latest drama, entitled “The Unmarried Mother,” which was much appreciated. Miss Kitty Darling appeared with considerable success in the title role, and Mr. E. Norman Edwards was a capable exponent of the character of Private Walter Newton, the lover. The other parts are all well sustained’ (Birmingham Daily Gazette, 12 December 1916).

‘There were large houses at the Palace Theatre, Great George-street, last night, when Mr. Oswald Cray presented the drama “The unmarried mother.” The story is a strong one, and interest in the production was well maintained (Rochdale Observer, 27 December 1916). ‘Undoubtedly the management of the Palace Theatre have secured for the holiday week what is a very absorbing drama in The unmarried mother.” At last night’s performance the subject was openly yet wholesomely dealt with, the life of a charming young girl, who “wins through,” forming the basis of an intensely absorbing play. The dresses and scenery are very effective, and the cast is a strong one' (Rochdale Times, 27 December 1916). ‘“The unmarried mother,” an interesting drama, has attracted large houses to the Palace Theatre, Great George-street, twice nightly this week. The different characters have been presented in a very capable manner, and the character of the plot is such as to sustain interest throughout the six scenes’ (Rochdale Observer, 30 December 1916).

The Stage, 11 January 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 8 January at the Royal, Wolverhampton.

When Oswald Cray advertised in The Stage, 18 January 1917, for theatres for The Unmarried Mother for February 5 and 19, his address was the Palace Theatre, Newcastle.

‘Pathos and comedy arc cleverly blended in the drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” at the Metropole. The story is told in four acts, and the interest never flags. The trials of Miss Kitty Darling as Eileen, the unmarried mother, appeal strongly to the audience. She portrays the part very cleverly, and others who contribute to the success of the piece include Miss Vera C. Grafton, Miss Pattie Dene, Mr. J. P- Lallen, Mr. Roland Hope, and Mr. James Astor’ (Daily Record, 23 January 1917). ‘“The Unmarried Mother,” which is on a return visit to Glasgow at the Metropole Theatre, is meeting with the same success as on former occasions. Given in three acts, comprising seven scenes, the story details a girl’s life and ultimate triumph. Miss Kitty Daring plays the title role with every acceptance, and all the other parts are capably sustained’ (Glasgow Observer and Catholic Herald, 27 January 1917).

The Era, 31 January 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 29 January at the Grand, Nelson.

The Burnley News, 7 February 1917, lifted much of its review from the one published in the Burnley Express, 8 March 1916 (q.v.). The play is capitally produced, and will appeal strongly to the sentiments of all ... Altogether the play is one effectively portraying real human nature in many phases’ (Burnley Express, 7 February 1917).

Mentioned in the Liverpool Echo, 9 February 1917, as ‘said to be a thought-giving and strong story’. Also: ‘At the Rotunda last evening, Mr. Oswald Cray presented his latest drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” by Vernon Proctor. Miss Kitty Darling ably portrays the role of the Unmarried Mother, and Mr. J. P. Lallen takes the role of Private Walter Newton, her lover. Mr. Jonty Dewhurst is responsible for the humorous side as Jimmy O’Goblin, a shirker, but later a soldier and a man. The play is in six well-staged scenes, and provides an excellent entertainment’ (Liverpool Echo, 13 February 1917).

‘Another great attraction is provided by the Messrs Sherwood at the Opera House this week in the production of the great interest drama, “The unmarried mother,” a fine play dealing with an admittedly difficult social problem, but in such a tactful and sympathetic manner as to be absolutely void of offence, and withal of a high educational value. The author is Mr Vernon Proctor, and the production is in the experienced and capable hands of Mr Oswald Craig [sic – Cray], who brings a very fine and specially selected company. The cast includes Miss Vera Grafton, one of the most talented dramatic actresses of the day, and she is supported by a company of artistes of exceptional merit. Bookings have been heavy, and all wishing to see this fine play will be well advised to secure their seats early’. Wakefield Advertiser & Gazette, 20 February 1917.

‘“The Unmarried Mother,” which is being performed at the Hippodrome this week, discusses what the programme describes as “the burning question of the day” with but little reserve. “Motherhood is more sacred than wifehood,” a sentence uttered by one of the characters, gives the key to Mr. C. Vernon Proctor’s play. It is open to serious question whether this is a doctrine that can be preached even in these days, when, as another character tells the audience, “The times we live in have changed our views on everything.” In the play a soldier is prevented by a sudden call to the front from marrying the girl he loves, and it is only in the last act, after his child is born, that he goes through the ceremony on a bed in hospital where the deed by which be won the Victoria Cross has landed him. The ceremony, by some mysterious process, steadies and strengthens the action of the heart, and in a remarkably sort space of time he is on the road to recovery, and all ends happily for the good folk in the play ... As is so often the case, the real problem is shirked by a happy ending, which perhaps partly accounts for the fact that the sentiments given utterance to were received with considerable favour by the audience which assembled at the first house last night’. Huddersfield Daily Examiner, 27 February 1917.

‘Grand Theatre. “The Unmarried Mother,” Mr. Oswald Cray’s latest production, occupies the boards during the current week at this popular drama house. As the title implies, the story concerns one of the greatest problems Society has to face. Miss Kitty Darling, who plays the role, has already won her spurs, and her fine portrayal in this piece seems to increase her reputation as an emotional actress. The other parts are all in safe and tried hands’. Halifax Evening Courier, 6 March 1917.

‘After an absence of a little over twelve months, the drama entitled “The Unmarried Mother” makes its reappearance at the Theatre Royal, South Shields, and had an excellent reception from well-filled house on the opening night. The chef character is Eileen, a young woman, the betrothed wife of a soldier who has been called to the front before the marriage ceremony can be performed. A child is born out of the bonds of wedlock, and she voices the plea of all women who are looked at askance by the world because the marriage ceremony has been honoured in the omission rather than in the observance. She claims it a greater honour to be a mother than a wife, and that this will come to be recognised by an alteration of the law at no distant time. This is rather a big order, as the saying is, but it is a sentiment which seems to find some degree of support from the audience who assemble at the playhouse'. Shields Daily News, 13 March 1917.

The Stage, 22 March 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 19 March at the Royal, West Stanley.

‘A fairly good audience witnessed the production of Vernon Proctor’s drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” by Mr. Oswald Cray’s company, in the Theatre Royal’ (Sheffield Daily Telegraph, 27 March 1917). ‘“The Unmarried Mother,” a drama on a burning question of the day, with Miss Murie [sic - Muriel] Monteath in the leading part, is staged at the Royal’ (Sheffield Independent, 27 March 1917). ‘Oswald Cray’s company occupy the boards here with an interesting production of the drama “The Unmarried Mother.” Murie [sic - Muriel] Monteath is the leading lady’. The Stage, 29 March 1917.

Advertised in the East Kent Gazette and the Kent Messenger & Gravesend Telegraph, 28 July 1917.

The Stage, 9 August 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 6 August at Pontnewynydd.

The Era, 29 August 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from both 27 August and 3 September at the Grand, Pentre. When Muriel Monteath, star lead in The Unmarried Mother, inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 30 August 1917, her address for that and the following week was in Pentre.

The Stage, 27 September 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 24 September and 1 October at the Royal, Stratford. When Muriel Monteath, star lead in The Unmarried Mother, inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 27 September 1917, her address for that and the following week was the T.R., Stratford.

The Era, 17 October 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from both 15 and 22 October at the New T., Bargoed. Similarly The Stage, 25 October and 1 November 1918.

The Stage, 25 October 1917, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 22 October at the Prince’s, Blackburn.

‘Two of C. Vernon Proctor’s dramas, “The Unmarried Mother” and “Back To Wife and Blighty,” are ably presented by Oswald Cray’s company’. The Stage, 8 November 1917.

‘Mr Oswald Cray’s company will appear in “The Unmarried Mother,” next week. This play has caused a great sensation wherever shown, and a strong fact is that only adults are admitted to see it, and even then not under sixteen years of age' (Leven Advertiser & Wemyss Gazette, Thursday 20 December 1917). Also the Leven Advertiser & Wemyss Gazette, Thursday 27 December 1917, advertised at the Gaiety Theatre, Methil, that night and during the week, 'Extra Special Attraction! For Adults Only. No person under the age of 16 admitted to see this Play. Mr Oswald Cray presents his Latest Drama on the Burning Question of the Day, entitled, The Unmarried Mother by C Vernon Proctor'.

Advertised in the Daily Record, 7 January 1918, as ‘ the greatest problem play of the age … the play which caused such a sensation on its previous visit, and smashed all Met. Pay-box records, scoring an unparalleled triumph. Was she married? This Splendid Play for Adults only’. Also: ‘Mr. Oswald Cray presents the problem play, “The Unmarried Mother,” at the Metropole. The piece last night proved a strong attraction. The company is a capable one, while the stage effects and scenery are up-to-date. The story is cleverly told, and grips from start to finish’ (Daily Record, 8 January 1918). Advertised in the Daily Record, 14 January 1918: ‘Owing to the huge success of this remarkable play, and at the request of many who were unable to obtain admission last week, The Unmarried Mother will be continued for one week longer in place of “The Man Who Made Good,” postponed until Monday next’. Also: 'The fine drama, “The Unmarried Mother,” remains at the Metropole for another week. It has had remarkable success, and the extension of the engagement is in response to the desire of the patrons. The story is cleverly portrayed by an all-round company of capable artistes’. Daily Record, 15 January 1918.

Advertised in the Coatbridge Leader, 26 January 1918: ‘Extra Special Attraction! For Adults Only. No person under the age of 16 admitted to see this Play. Mr Oswald Cray Presents his Latest Problem Play on the Burning question of the day, entitled, The Unmarried Mother by C Vernon Proctor’. Also: ‘This week Mr. Oswald Cray is presenting the great problem play, a charming drama from the pen of C. Vernon Proctor, entitled “The Unmarried Mother.” It is one of the greatest plays of the age, and attracts crowded houses everywhere, Every night this week standing room has been at a premium in the Coatbridge Theatre, and another great gathering is expected to-night (Saturday), at seven The character of Eileen, the unmarried mother, a woman with a heart of love, is a part which needs an actress of great emotional powers in order to make it a success, and Miss Adair succeeded in bringing every particle out of a difficult and delicate role' (Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser, 2 February 1918). ‘Fresh from a most successful season at the Metropole, Glasgow, Mr Oswald Gray [sic] presented at the Royal this week one of life’s problems dramatised, namely, “The Unmarried Mother.” That Mr Gray [sic] has again met with success is certain, for the building has been filled every night so far. In the title role Miss Adair makes play with all the emotional powers at her command and never fails to awake an echo in the hearts of her responsive audience' (Coatbridge Leader, 2 February 1918).

‘“The Unmarried Mother,” and the famous “Allington Opera Company” will divide the week at the Opera House’. Fife Free Press, & Kirkcaldy Guardian, 2 February 1918.

‘At the Grand Theatre next week, Mr. Oswald Cray will present the famous up-to-date drama, founded on facts, and entitled “The Man Who Made Good.” On Friday night the same company will, by special request, produce “The Unmarried Mother,” by C. Vernon Proctor, being the latest problem play on the burning question of the day’. Halifax Guardian, Saturday 23 February 1918.

The Huddersfield Examiner, Monday 4 March 1918, advertised The Man Who Made Good at the Hippodrome all that week except Friday when The Unmarried Mother would be played.

Advertised in the West London Observer, 29 March 1918, as ‘Special Holiday Attraction … For Adults Only’.

Advertised in the Dover Express, 5 April 1918: ‘Extra Special Attraction! For Adults Only. No Person under the age of 16 admitted to see this Play. Mr Oswald Cray presents the Great Problem Play on the Burning Question of the Day - The Unmarried Mother by C Vernon Proctor'. Also: ‘The experiment of producing a problem play was tried this week at the Hippodrome, where Mr. Oswald Cray presented “The Unmarried Mother,” by C. Vernon Proctor. The subject deals with one of the serious problems of the hour, and is ably acted by a cast which includes the following well-known artistes:- Mr. Archie Grant, Mr. Frank V. Venn, Mr. H. A. Langlois, Mr. Conrad Clerke, Miss Edna Lester, Miss Amy Wood, Miss Florrie MacInnes, Mr. Allan Carruthers, Mr. James Astor, and Miss Laurie Adair’ (Dover Express, 12 April 1918).

The Stage, 9 May 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 6 May at the Royal, Leicester.

The Era, 5 June 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 3 June at Brixton. Similarly The Stage, 6 June 1918.

Listed in the Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 24 June 1918.

Advertised in the Western Evening Herald, 1 July 1918.

‘The many patrons of Palace appreciate a good strong drama, and they expressed their approval in no half-hearted manner of the problem play “The Unmarried Mother” when it was presented at the opening of the week’s performances on Monday night. C. Vernon Proctor is the author, and for its presentation Mr. Oswald Cray has secured a strong cast, the members of which bring out to the full extent the powerful drama and the great pathos of the play ... The play is in six scenes, full of incident and interest, and it all ends on the right note’. Derby Daily Telegraph, 2 July 1918.

‘Exceptionally large audiences visited the Grand Theatre last night to witness a drama, entitled “The Unmarried Mother.” The work proved a most interesting one. In the title role Miss Dora Weber, by her fine acting, enlisted the sympathies of all. As the lover, Mr. Alfred D. Adams also treated his audience to some clever acting, whilst. to Mr. Frank V. Fenn must be accorded the highest praise for his exposition of the role of Lieut. Allen. Mr. H. A. Langlois does the heavy work well, and Miss Florrie MacInnes is an accomplished actress. Other characters are in good hands, and capital humour is introduced by Miss Amy Wood and Mr. Allan Carruthers’. Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail, 23 July 1918.

Advertised in the Shields Daily News, 27 July 1918, as ‘the great Problem Play on the burning question of the day … Note.- This Play is for Adults Only. No person under the age of 16 will be admitted’. Also: ‘What is described as “the great problem play on the burning question of the day” is presented this week at the Theatre Royal, North Shields. Mr Oswald Cray’s company appears in “The Unmarried Mother,” by C. Vernon Proctor, a play which has excited much interest in different parts of the country, and in certain towns has met with hostile criticism. The title suggests the nature of the story which is unfolded. The company is an exceptionally good one all round, and the acting, which included light comedy, was received with frequent applause by a large gathering at each performance last evening' (Shields Daily News, 30 July 1918).

Advertised in the Leeds Mercury, 12 August 1918, as ‘Oswald Cray’s Problem Drama’. ‘At the Theatre Royal “The Unmarried Mother” pays a return visit, and the many powerful situations are capably interpreted by Mr. Oswald Cray’s Company. Miss Dora Weber and Mr. Frank V. Fenn take the leading parts with much success’ (Leeds Mercury, 13 August 1918).

‘A problem play, “The Unmarried Mother,” will be presented to adults only at the Grand Theatre [sic], Middlesbrough, by Mr Oswald Gray’s [sic] Company The principal characters will be undertaken by Miss Dora Weber, Mr Frank Venn, Mr. Alfred Adams, and Miss Florrie Macinnes’ (North Star (Darlington), 17 August 1918). ‘Two crowded holiday audiences were highly delighted last night, at the Theatre Royal, Middlesbrough, with the play, “The Unmarried Mother,” which was capitally interpreted by Mr Oswald Cray’s Company. Leading parts are admirably sustained by Alfred D Adams and Dora Weber’ (North Star (Darlington), 20 August 1918).

The Stage, 22 and 29 August 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 26 August at the R., Stratford. Advertised in The People, 25 August 1918.

The Stage, 5 and 12 September 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 9 September at the E., Southend.

‘One of the burning problems of the day is skilfully and delicately tackled in Mr. Vernon Proctor’s drama, which is to be performed next week. “TUM” is a war drama that will grip the interest of all those who witness it. Mr. Oswald Cray has secured a company who sympathetically interpret the spirit of the play. Miss Betty Emery takes the rôle of the unfortunate girl, and Private Walter Newton, the lover, is depicted by Mr. Alfred D. Adams. No children will be admitted to the performances, which will take place at the usual hours’ (Eastbourne Chronicle, 21 September 1918). Also advertised in the Eastbourne Chronicle, 21 September 1918: ‘Extra Special Attraction. For Adults Only. No children under age of 16 admitted to see this Play. Mr. Oswald Cray presents the Great Problem Play on the Burning Question of the Day – “The Unmarried Mother,” By C. Vernon Proctor’.

The Stage, 3 October 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 30 September at the R., Stratford.

The Stage, 3 and 10 October 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 7 October at the R., Edmonton. And when Betty Emery, playing the title rôle in The Unmarried Mother, inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 10 October 1918, her address was the Theatre Royal, Edmonton.

The Coatbridge Express, 30 October 1918, advertised The Unmarried Mother at the Airdrie Hippodrome, on Monday 28 October and during the week: ‘Extra special attraction. For adults only. No person under the age of 16 admitted to see this Play … the Great Problem Play on the Burning Question of the Day’.

The Stage, 7, 14 and 21 November 1918, between them listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 11 and 18 November at the G., Edinburgh. Also: ‘There were full houses at the Garrick last night when Mr Oswald Gray presented “The Unmarried Mother.” The chief part, which introduces plenty of emotional acting, is excellently undertaken by Miss Betty Emery. The part of Walter Newton, the man in love, is cleverly carried through by Alfred Adams. The villain of the play, Gerald Blaik [sic - Blake], is skilfully performed by H. Langlois, while the numerous amusing touches are given by Allan Carruthers as Jim Goblin and Miss Amy Wood as his mother’ (Edinburgh Evening News, 12 November 1918).

‘An extra attraction is appearing this week in the Empire Theatre, in the shape of a problem play. Under the title of the “Unmarried Mother,” a delicate subject is well treated and finely presented. This topical play and the artists and general presentment of the play are all that can be desired’. Motherwell Times, 29 November 1918.

The Stage, 28 November and 5 December 918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 2 December at the G., Methil. However, the Leven Advertiser & Wemyss Gazette, Thursday 5 December 1918, advertised that night and during the week the ‘Latest Problem Drama on the burning question of the day’ The Plaything Of An Hour (for adults only) by C. Vernon Proctor, author of The Unmarried Mother. Perhaps The Unmarried Mother was played on Monday-Wednesday, 2-4 December.

The Stage, 5 and 12 December 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 9 December at the Al., Stirling.

The Hawick Express, 13 December 1918, advertised: ‘For Adults Only. No person under the age of 16 admitted to see this play. Extra Special Attraction. Mr Oswald Cray presents the great problem play on the burning question of the day - The Unmarried Mother by C Vernon Proctor’. The advertisement listed the cast: Private Walter Newton, the lover, Alfred D. Adams; Lieut. Dennis Allan, in love with Ethel, Frank V. Venn; Gerald Blake, a man of the world, H. A. Langlois; John Chalmers, just a man, Conrad Clerke; Martha Chalmers, his wife, Edna Lester; Ethel Chalmers, his daughter, Florrie MacInnes; Mrs O’Goblin, a good old soul, Amy Wood; Jimmy O’Goblin, her son, Allen Caruthers; The Chaplain at the hospital, James Aster, Eileen, the unmarried mother, Betty Emery; the baby, himself. The setting was as follows: Scene 1, A Room in Chalmer’s House, London. Her secret discovered. Scene 2, Near the Docks, Porthampton. Too late to be married. Scene 3, Mrs O’Goblin’s Cottage, Porthampton. Working for herself and child. Short interval. Scene 4, A Room in Chalmers’s House, London. The wickedness of men. Scene 5, A Street in London. News of the lover. Scene 6, A Hospital in London. Are they married??? Also the Hawick News and Border Chronicle, 13 December 1918. Also: ‘With the exception of an instalment of the serial, the usual picture programme at the Pavilion has been substituted by drama. Mr Oswald Cray’s great problem play, “The Unmarried Mother” is being presented nightly. The caste includes a number of able actors, and the play is presented in a very satisfactory manner, the pathos of the subject handled being relieved by the humour, created by Mr Allan Carruthers in the role of “Jimmy O’Goblin.” Miss Betty Emery as “Eileen” portrays her part with discretion and tact, and she is well supported by the remaining principals. The retribution which overtakes the stern, unrelenting Mr Chalmers, calls for dramatic ability, and Mr Conrad Clerke fulfils the role very successfully. The company are presenting an up-to-date drama, founded on facts, and entitled “The Man who made Good.” This play will be staged to-night and to-morrow night ...' (Hawick Express, Friday 20 December 1918).

The Stage, 27 December 1918, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 23 December at the E., Cowdenbeath.

The Metropole, Glasgow, advertised in The Stage, 9 January 1919, ‘December 30, January 6 and 13. Mr. Oswald Cray’s season. First week: The Plaything Of An Hour. Breaking all the New Year records by a significant amount. This week: The Unmarried Mother, which on its last visit (two weeks, same period) played to well over £1,000’. The Metropole, Glasgow, advertised in The Stage, 23 January 1919, ‘Saturday last, termination of Mr. Oswald Cray’s New Year season. (Three weeks)-- The Plaything of An Hour, Unmarried Mother, and Mormon and His Wives. “Smashed all previous records by a substantial amount’. So it appears that The Unmarried Mother was played in the middle week of a three week season, beginning 6 January.

The Stage, 6 February 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 3 February at the E., Bishop Auckland.

The Stage, 13 and 20 February 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 17 February at the Imperial, Canning Town. The Unmarried Mother was also listed at the London Imperial in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 13 February 1919.

‘During the present week the problem play, “The Unmarried Mother,” is being presented every evening, and at a matinee on Saturday afternoon. The part of Eileen, the unmarried mother, is sustained by Miss Betty Emery, whose views on the question raised by the play are very outspoken’. Surrey Advertiser, 26 February 1919. However, when Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Wallace (Miss Muriel Monteath) inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 27 February 1919, she was playing the title-role in The Unmarried Mother at the Royal, Guildford.

‘Mr. Oswald Cray is adopting the unusually bold and ambitious course of presenting this week at two London theatres, the Dalston and the Elephant and Castle, C. Vernon Proctor’s latest drama, The Plaything of an Hour’ (The Stage, 6 March 1919). The Stage, 6 March 1919, and The Era, 12 March 1919, reviewed C. Vernon Proctor’s The Plaything Of An Hour, presented at the Elephant and Castle on Monday 3 March. So The Unmarried Mother may have been played at Dalston that week.

The Stage, 27 March 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 24 March at Dalston, N.E. (listing The Plaything Of An Hour separately at other theatres). When Jack Murtagh inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 27 March 1919, he was the juvenile lead in The Unmarried Mother at the Dalston Theatre.

The Stage, 10 April 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 7 April at the Pal., Ramsgate.

When Jack Murtagh inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 15 May 1919, he was the juvenile lead in The Unmarried Mother at the V., Walthamstow.

When Jack Murtagh inserted a theatrical card in The Stage, 22 May 1919, he was the juvenile lead in The Unmarried Mother at the H., Rotherhithe; next Bordesley. Oswald Cray claimed in an advertisement in The Stage, 29 May 1919, that £643 4s 9d was ‘the exact amount I took last week without tax, heat included, at the Hippodrome, Rotherhithe with my Record Breaker’ The Unmarried Mother.

The Stage, 29 May 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 26 May at the Pal., Bordesley.

The Stage, 29 May and 5 June 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 2 June at the G., Nottingham.

The Stage, 24 July 1919, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 21 July at the Pal., Llanelly.

‘Oswald Cray presents “The Unmarried Mother” for the second time. Edna Lester (Martha Chalmers) and Conrad Clerke (in his original part of John Chalmers) repeat their impersonations of September, 1918; and the new members are Hugh Wallace (Private Walter Newton), Laurie Potter (Eileen), Harry Lewis (Lieut. Dennis Allan), Pattie Dene (Ethel Chalmers), John Talford (Gerald Blake), Phyllis Vaughan (Mrs. O’Goblin), and Tom H. Solly (Jimny O’Goblin)’. The Stage, 13 November 1919.

Listed in The Stage, 20 November 1919, in Calls For Next Week, and also as On Tour from 24 November, at the New, Salisbury.

Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 1 January 1920, but apparently only for January 5, 6 and 7, presumably the first half of a week split with Yeovil.

The Stage, 8 January 1920, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 5 January at the P., Yeovil (3), presumably the second half of a week split with Barnstaple.

The Stage, 8 January 1920, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 12 January at the Pal., Chepstow (3) and the Pal., Treharris (3), i.e. a week split between the two theatres.

‘This week the Metropole features a problem play entitled “The Unmarried Mother,” another of C. Vernon Proctor’s dramas. Laurie Potter is the leading lady’. The Stage, 15 January 1920.

The Stage, 8 January 1920, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 12 January at the Pal., Chepstow (3) and the Pal., Treharris (3), i.e. a week split between the two theatres.

Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 15 January 1920.

Listed in Calls For Next Week in The Stage, 15 January 1920.

Advertised in the Somerset Standard, 23 January 1920 as ‘For Adults Only’. The cast was Private Walter Newton, the lover, Alfred D. Adams; Lieut. Dennis Allan, in love with Ethel, Frank W. Fenn; Gerald Blake, a man of the world, N. A. Langlois; John Chalmers, just a man, Conrad Clerke; Martha Chalmers, his Wife, Louis Adams; Ethel Chalmers, his daughter, Hilda de Pass; Mrs. O’Goblin, a good old soul, Audrey Canning; Jimmy O’Goblin, her son, Allan Carruthers; the Chaplain of the Hospital, Claude Macdonald; Eileen, the unmarried mother, Betty Emery; The Baby, by himself. Scene 1, a room in Chalmer’s house, London, her secret discovered. Scene 2, near the docks, Porthampton, too late to be married. Scene 3, Mrs. O’Goblin’s cottage, Porthampton, working for herself and child. Short Interval. Scene 4, a room in Chalmer’s house, London, the wickedness of men. Scene 5, a street in London, news of her lover. Scene 6. A Hospital in London, are they married???’.

‘Oswald Cray’s company are here for another week with “The Unmarried Mother.” Capital acting is displayed all round, with Laura [sic] Potter in her leading part’. The Stage, 29 January 1920.

‘This week the repertory company present “The Unmarried Mother.” The leading characters are ably interpreted by Madge Hope in the title- rôle, Stephen M. Nicholls and Rica Miller (Mr. and Mrs. Chalmers), and Digby Hayes (Gerald Blake)’. The Stage 24 June 1920.

The Stage, 24 June and 1 July 1920, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 28 June at the R., York.

‘Although “The Unmarried Mother” deals with a subject which was prominent two or three years ago it still makes an appeal to many, as was shown by the keen interest with which every detail of Mr. Cray’s play was followed by the Palace audience. The doctrine professed by the unmarried mother is rather dangerous, but Mr. Vernon Proctor, the author, has wrapped it up in a manner which wins the entire sympathy of. those who follow the trials and difficulties which beset the footsteps of his heroine. Loving “not wisely but too well,” Eileen, herself of unfortunate birth, finds herself in trouble, and the immediate departure of her fiancee to the Front prevents the application of the proper remedy. Her employer, one of the hard-hearted kind, turns her adrift, but his daughter stands by Eileen and the two support themselves by war-work. Ethel has previously refused to marry Gerald Blake, the villain of the piece, but he hunts the girls down and obtains the dismissal of Eileen. This, however, leads to the avowal by her former employers’ wife that she, Eileen, is her child, and that Blake is her father. The final scene is an intensely dramatic one in which Eileen is taken to her fiancee whilst he is lying unconscious on what is supposed to his death bed. He rallies and they are married by the chaplain, a circumstance which gives the husband a new lease of life, and everything ends happily. Miss Betty Emery (Eileen), Miss Hylda Depass (Ethel), Mr. Will Beasley (Blake), Mr. Alfred D. Adams (John Chalmers), Mr. Jack Terry (Lieut. Denis Allan), Mr. Archie Grant (Pte. Newton), Miss Louie Adams (Mrs. Chalmers), take the principal parts, Miss Aubrey Canning and Mr. Cecil Mercer providing the comedy’. Gloucester Journal, 20 July 1920.

The Stage, 29 July 1920, listed The Unmarried Mother as On Tour from 26 July at the H., Chesterfield.

‘Mr. Oswald Cray is presenting C. Vernon Proctor’s dope drama, “The Plaything of an Hour” … Tomorrow (Friday) “An Unmarried Mother” will be played’. The Stage, 10 February 1921.

‘Any of Mr. Oswald Cray’s productions are always assured of a hearty welcome in South London, hence the large audience which assembled at the Surrey Theatre to which he has gathered round him, and in Mr. Vernon Proctor’s drama, “The Unmarried Mother.” Mr. Cray is to be congratulated upon the excellent company which has gathered round him, and in no less a degree upon his leading lady, Miss Madeleine Burnette, who as Eileen, the unmarried mother, gets every bit of pathos from a somewhat trying part. Miss Hilda Malcolm makes a winsome Ethel Chalmers, and receives excellent support from Mr. Jack Terry as Lieut. Dennis Allan. To Mr. Eric Page falls the unsympathetic rôle of Gerald Blake. As the hard-hearted John Chalmers, Mr. Alfred Adams (the business manager) did exceedingly well, and Miss Louie Adams was sufficiently subdued as his wife, Martha. Miss Daphne Delorme and Mr. Todd Squires as Mrs. O’Goblin and Jimmy, of that ilk, provided plenty of boisterous humour, whilst Mr. Peter Tyson was earnest as Private Walter Newton, Eileen’s lover’. The Era, 22 June 1921.

‘Oswald Cray is presenting the problem play “The Unmarried Mother” this week. Audiences are gripped by the acting of Laurie Potter, Allan Carruthers, and Stanley Marsh’. The Stage, 21 July 1921.

The Era, 24 August 1921, Listed The Unmarried Mother as On The Road from 22 and 29 August at the Pal., Gloucester. Also: ‘Another company of Mr. Oswald Cray’s are appearing this week, in the problem drama, “The Unmarried Mother.” The presentation is on excellent lines, and the play well received’. The Era, 31 August 1921.

At the Queen’s “The Unmarried Mother” is presented by the Queen’s own stock company, who conclude a four weeks season here’. The Era, 14 November 1923.

‘Mr. Vernon Proctor is next week reviving at the Prince’s Theatre one of his biggest successes, “The Unmarried Mother.” It has not been played in Portsmouth for many years, though it has been touring the provinces ever since its production in 1915. It is a very human drama, telling the story of human frailty in a very human way, and with Ethel Bracewell in the title role, the play is sure of an enthusiastic reception’ (Portsmouth Evening News, 29 December 1923). Advertised in the Portsmouth Evening News, 29 December 1923: 'Great Success of the C. Vernon \Proctor Season. By Special Request. “The Unmarried Mother.” The Drama that for Five Years Broke all Records. A Human Play of Human Frailty’.

‘At the Grand, Mr. Oswald Cray’s repertoire company continue their success, this week’s play being the “Unmarried Mother.” The name part is played by Miss Maude Stewart Drewry, with her usual brilliance; and Eric Portman makes a dashing hero. Richard Ferris achieve success in his accustomed heavy rôle, and the comedy is safely handled by H. Lloyd Parker’. The Era, Saturday 1 August 1925.

Advertised in The Era, 12 September 1925, performed by the South London Players (direction, Dorothy Mullord) with Michael Woods as Lieut. Dennis Allan and Winifred Felix Pitt as Eileen Liscombe.

‘It speaks volumes for the popularity and ability of Mr. Glaze’s company that after a stay of some five months in the town the interest in their performances shows but little sign of waning, and people roll up in large numbers to the Globe Theatre every evening. The attraction for the opening nights of the present week was an original play of modern life, entitled “The Unmarried Mother,” by C. Vernon Proctor, which deals with a much-discussed subject. It is well-nigh superfluous for us to add that Mr Glaze’s company gave it a most capable and intelligent interpretation, the various parts being in the safe hands of Mr Jerry Neldon, Mr Bernard Fox, Mr Leo Rodway, Mr Harry Harrop, Mr A. H. Harris, Mr Vincent Stanley, Miss Queenie Barrett, Miss Adeline Raby, Miss Maudie B. Douglas and Miss Violet Manley. We suppose that most of our readers have, at one time or another, heard of the infamous doings of Sweeney Todd, the demon barber. of Fleet Street. This is a play that has stood the test of over a hundred years, and, by special request, it will be produced the last three nights of the present week’. Consett Guardian, 8 January 1926.

Advertised in The Era, 20 January 1926, performed by the North London Players (direction, Dorothy Mullord). ‘The story of [sic] which forms the attraction at Collins’ next week commencing Monday, January 25th. deals with one of those problems which were so common during the days of the Great War - the problem of the girl whose lover was suddenly summoned back to the front before a marriage could be performed, after they had loved not wisely but too well - and how fate intervened and the woman was left to bear her shame alone. Miss Winifred Felix-Pitt will appear as Eileen Beahe [sic], the unmarried mother, and Mr. Victor Lorraine as the father of her child. The part of her true friend in her misfortune will be taken by Miss Nancy Newell as Ethel Chalmers, while Mr. T. Arthur Ellis will appear as her jovial Irish sweetheart, Lieut. Dennis Allen, R.A.M.C. The stern father, John Chalmers, and his long suffering wife will be assumed by Mr. Wingold Lawrence, and Miss Gladys Gaunt, while the dirty dog of the play, Gerald Beahe [sic], will find a sound exponent in Mr. Herbert Evelyn. The comedy will be in the clever hands of Mr. Billy Owen as Jimmy, a student of the noble art, dodging work, and Miss Hargaret [sic] Taylor as his doting wife. Drama and comedy are cleverly mingled in this play that had a very successful run on its presentation at the Hippodrome, Rotherhithe, and it should be seen by all those in want of an evening’s good entertainment at Collins’ next week’ (Holloway Press, 22 January 1926). Also noted with a cast list in the Holloway Press, 29 January 1926.

The Stage, 15 April 1926, listed the Broadhead Players in The Unmarried Mother at the Bury Hippo. in Calls For Next Week. Noted in the Manchester Evening News, 20 April 1926, as a ‘drama of the strongly sentimental sort’.

The Manchester Evening News, 17 May 1926, advertised at the Crown Theatre, Eccles, ‘Doreen Whitten, Betty Emery, Harry J. Clifford, Chas. Brandon and Harry Benson, supported by the Broadhead Players, present The Unmarried Mother’.

The date is a surmise based on the following newspaper report. At Campden Petty Sessions ‘Jeffrey John Bourke, The Limes, Blockley, was summoned for allowing the Northwick Institute, Blockley, to be used as a theatre for dramatic performances on July 8th and for eight successive days. P.C. Wensley said he was instructed to attend the Northwick Institute on June 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 14th, and 17th. He visited the place, and saw stage plays performed on those nights, viz., “The Midnight Terror,” “The Unmarried Mother,” “The Miser of Blockley,” and others. Several people took part, who were all made up to represent different characters. P.S. [sic] Wall said he asked defendant if had a license for the performance of stage plays, and he replied, “No, I don’t know anything about it.” Fined 10s. for each night, total £4 10s’. Gloucestershire Echo, 23 July 1926, and Cheltenham Chronicle, 24 July 1926.

Advertised in the Staffordshire Sentinel, 17 July 1926, performed by ‘Miss Gertrude Vicker’s famous stock co.’. ‘For the last three days of the week there will be staged “The Unmarried Mother,” which has met with considerable success wherever played. It is a drama of life during the days of the War’ (Staffordshire Sentinel, 20 July 1926).

‘The Hippodrome, Clay Cross.- Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, the drama. “The Plaything of an Hour”: Thursday. Friday and Saturday, “The Unmarried Mother.” These two are plays, not pictures’. Derbyshire Times, 9 October 1916.

‘The success of Miss Ruby Kimberley’s company at the Playhouse for some mouths now has been largely due to the attractive manner in which she has blended her programme with old favourites and plays of present-day popularity. Next week Miss Kimberley will stage E. Vivian Edmunds’s stirring drama, “The Maid of the Mill” … On Friday night only Vernon Proctor’s outspoken play, “The Unmarried Mother,” will be presented at both performances … Miss Phyllis Claude will appear in the principal part’. Western Mail, 9 August 1930.

Advertised in the Hartlepool Northern Daily Mail, Saturday 14 February 1931, as ‘for adults only’ on Thursday-Saturday of the following week.

‘The Vickers Super Stock Company will celebrate their hundredth night at the Theatre Royal, North Shields on Thursday … Last night’s play was a drama by Vernon Proctor, entitled “The Unmarried Mother.” It was splendidly acted entertainment, and showed the entire company at its best. The play was true to life, and portrays a young servant girl whose lover was torn away from her by the world war. Whilst was away, however, she had a child and her subsequent hardships, caused by people who did not understand, were terrible. It was a play in which Miss Vickers excelled in her role as Eileen Liscombe (the unmarried mother)’. Shields Daily News, 14 September 1931.