When one considers the amount of military news which has been filling the American press, together with stories from the Mexican border, it is no wonder that dramatists reach there for material. Augusts Thomas proves to be the present victim and in "Rio Grande," now playing at the Hollis Theatre, he shows his thorough familiarity with soldier life. The plot, which is a complicated one, deals principally with the married life of Colonel and Mrs. Bannard. The latter being much younger than her husband and finding an army post existence weary, has secret relations with a certain Lieutenant Ellsworth, but she soon discovers her error and then attempts to readjust her position with her husband.

Probably the only thing which makes the play a valuable contribution to American drama is the clever dialogue, for several timely slaps are directed toward the present administration and its war policy. Too much emotion is exhibited too often to give any balance to the piece, and the free play of bullets falls very short of realism. The action takes place in Texas, but Texas is at least under the Constitution.

As for acting, the stellar honors easily belong to A. H. Van Buren, in the part of Colonel Bannard. He is exceptionally strong, and with a fine voice, an American stage anomaly, he carries through the "heavies" admirably. Elsie Rizer as the Colonel's wife, also has ability, but there is a lack of poise in her acting which is noticeable at tense moments. It is a surprise to see Frank Campeau in the small role of Bill, Hecht, when one remembers the remarkable Trampas he played in "The Virginians." Amelia Gardner as Mrs. Lane and Robert Frazer as Lieut. Ellsworth were capable supporters.