tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75578733324746301172024-03-13T17:48:40.215-07:00Criminal MischiefAn ongoing blog about my writing process.lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-7752030910747887632017-09-08T14:04:00.002-07:002017-09-08T14:04:36.991-07:00Run Run Run Run Runaway!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEz-Dha3taZhEHPE28hC1FpQO4zwSWEjkb7roi9eqO2Ef5rhN7toKqGmyBEiGo8xWZcYSXMKOIRrkIU0PuVJn37WghJllZVYmtMpFkN6BztXMSYZQ0LNycl4zR8AJhdRSUn-OFhGRBBOud/s1600/joshua-ness-189165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEz-Dha3taZhEHPE28hC1FpQO4zwSWEjkb7roi9eqO2Ef5rhN7toKqGmyBEiGo8xWZcYSXMKOIRrkIU0PuVJn37WghJllZVYmtMpFkN6BztXMSYZQ0LNycl4zR8AJhdRSUn-OFhGRBBOud/s320/joshua-ness-189165.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm running away. Or the blog is.<br />
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I've moved this blog and my other ones over to Wordpress. The link is https://williamraincrow.wordpress.com<br />
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Everything that was here is there as well, and I won't be updating this one.<br />
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Cheers.lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-42716443781028815582017-04-12T14:35:00.000-07:002017-04-12T14:35:57.686-07:00Book review - Mother's Little Helper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivD8wxK8D-4u6V6dTIDTweqwQs7zqGusXj8-nKCCYZpF5CfSVyopRWuSBx253yuiqe0G_nFFaRL8Ne4Pw9jJox4SNU9Sa9GXAdlP0H9rmZrCGPmgDU2N2kqj6UuXqfyqSGBGm3oaN4Nir2/s1600/51av1agQaPL._SY346_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivD8wxK8D-4u6V6dTIDTweqwQs7zqGusXj8-nKCCYZpF5CfSVyopRWuSBx253yuiqe0G_nFFaRL8Ne4Pw9jJox4SNU9Sa9GXAdlP0H9rmZrCGPmgDU2N2kqj6UuXqfyqSGBGm3oaN4Nir2/s200/51av1agQaPL._SY346_.jpg" width="133" height="200" /></a></div>
<br /><br /><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33291572-mother-s-little-helper" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px"><img border="0" alt="Mother's Little Helper" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1486614061m/33291572.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33291572-mother-s-little-helper">Mother's Little Helper</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/94892.Karen_MacInerney">Karen MacInerney</a><br/>
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1967045537">5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Margie Peterson is a private eye with some of the same real-world problems most of us have. Don't read "Mother's Little Helper" if you want to read about a tough as nails spit-polished detective who always knows the answer. DO read it if you want to snort your soft drink out your nose when Single-Mom Margie tries to bring the miscreants to justice while dealing with dysfunctional people, in-laws, unpredictable kids and pets, and well meaning friends and relatives. I admit, sometimes it is all so realistic it aggravates me, but I still cheer on Margie to persevere in her own unique way. Mike Hammer couldn't handle it!
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/1515795-william">View all my reviews</a>
lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-42667517412206530472016-10-06T12:47:00.001-07:002016-10-06T12:47:12.830-07:00Book Review: When You're The Only Cop In Town<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0f74z5McAAaV40xmdrgh5KG6HoNBXYvbmDFelsm9HW3s2-QVFMj5u3EQu36hRYFg33VCP0RwPDKNaTPY3cAi7M9xL6waVjPjFDdJljQPJeCfaJmfoKFfSNAvQhpBBfi7GYcogcZnCYqc/s1600/cover96815-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0f74z5McAAaV40xmdrgh5KG6HoNBXYvbmDFelsm9HW3s2-QVFMj5u3EQu36hRYFg33VCP0RwPDKNaTPY3cAi7M9xL6waVjPjFDdJljQPJeCfaJmfoKFfSNAvQhpBBfi7GYcogcZnCYqc/s320/cover96815-medium.png" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">A fascinating book. This literally runs a close second to having an actual ride-along with a small-town police chief. It has the same feel of "here's how it is". Jack Berry had extensive experience as a cop in a larger city, then he took on the job of small-town chief. For a time, he really was the only cop in town. His experiences are a wonderful resource for any writer such as myself who is writing anything that involves small town police work. </span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-42535916745729373062016-10-05T15:23:00.001-07:002016-10-05T15:23:21.050-07:00The Shamanic Powers of Rolling Thunder: Review<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5_qgzRHRuU8CmkRhxRJnOBbWp1z3xv-wMBCEIR9Hr9SHLHimTyj83wVY0PCgmBuqsSsykoFOQF7xwXwb3t1rez9Z561ptE-UcvDZOXZci6bZj0NB2RPSys_t32jpd_aLW8v7fTb7jHkS/s1600/cover97585-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5_qgzRHRuU8CmkRhxRJnOBbWp1z3xv-wMBCEIR9Hr9SHLHimTyj83wVY0PCgmBuqsSsykoFOQF7xwXwb3t1rez9Z561ptE-UcvDZOXZci6bZj0NB2RPSys_t32jpd_aLW8v7fTb7jHkS/s320/cover97585-medium.png" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I had forgotten about Rolling Thunder. I had read an interview with him back in 1981 in Mother Earth News magazine. I was intrigued since I was interested in shamanism of different kinds at the time. Things happened, though, and I lost track of him. I was delighted to come across this new book with numerous interviews of people sharing their experiences around him. If you have any interest in contemporary shamans, this is a good place to start.</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-67411098453113528212016-10-05T14:55:00.001-07:002016-10-05T14:55:50.609-07:00Night School - New Jack Reacher!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUyvJTRia7mfowg_y6th_y2lBldCXz6mKecNubxRpeDf1YHWRWEyJxNWQJgo8ZpoKslikkMSI4co9QWF7H_X03u2k9IcuL_tW5dq87sPkG6K2VMNDkyiLR29a9PTIOWRYGmS2nH8U7k1b/s1600/cover94276-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUyvJTRia7mfowg_y6th_y2lBldCXz6mKecNubxRpeDf1YHWRWEyJxNWQJgo8ZpoKslikkMSI4co9QWF7H_X03u2k9IcuL_tW5dq87sPkG6K2VMNDkyiLR29a9PTIOWRYGmS2nH8U7k1b/s320/cover94276-medium.png" width="211" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">A new Jack Reacher novel by Lee Child is reason enough to celebrate. Night School is a bit of a flashback into Reacher's army days when he is rewarded for finishing a sensitive hush-hush case for the government by being detailed to what seems like possibly a punishment detail, attending what appears to be a truly boring class in inter-department cooperation. Of course, nothing is what it seems and we are carried along on another Reacher rumble! Five stars, because, well, nothing else will do! Read it!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-90036772150221087392016-09-19T15:11:00.000-07:002016-09-19T15:11:35.761-07:00Taking The Plunge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMjyCG87fkEJpfx7SlkajHMqn6mmjHrloXZaDFcjOlRwa-CMZax_tS8y797kPXEyyWn717-X96LPAopbGxyW0x4Lna5DTyOfR5t8E4awwdwDXXCkg2q0sLx7TUx9x0titZ9jhHrf6j95k/s1600/ChadCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQMjyCG87fkEJpfx7SlkajHMqn6mmjHrloXZaDFcjOlRwa-CMZax_tS8y797kPXEyyWn717-X96LPAopbGxyW0x4Lna5DTyOfR5t8E4awwdwDXXCkg2q0sLx7TUx9x0titZ9jhHrf6j95k/s200/ChadCover.jpg" width="127" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> I took the plunge last week. I published two of my short stories separately as books on Kindle. Partly just to get them out there, partly to learn how to do it. It's a bit tricky, but not much. I must say another reason was to ramp up my incentive to finish other work and get it out there too! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have a series of novels in the works, set in the small central Texas town of Shin Oak Ridge in the mid 1980's and featuring Deputy Constable Pen Sadler. The above short stories are set in the same area, in the county seat of Copete County, Cedar City, just a few miles from Shin Oak, and in the present day. They feature Parson Short, the only private eye in Cedar City and probably the county. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's a soft-boiled private eye series with a bit a fun. Give it a try. I hope you like it and give me a good review. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">You can get "Hanging Chad" <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0F7ZEV">here</a>. You can get "The Case of the Other Sister's Mister" <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Case-Other-Sisters-Mister-Private-ebook/dp/B01M0RRLKG">here</a>. If you're interested, you can also see my Kindle Author page <a href="https://www.amazon.com/William-C-Seward/e/B01LZSMH1U">here</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Thank you!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-77871688680020238372016-06-16T14:27:00.000-07:002016-06-16T14:27:35.314-07:00Like a Note from Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Reading a lot these days, not writing much, alas. By the time I get out to my desk it's hot outside and nearly afternoon. It feels more like it should be nap time than productive time. Our mornings are spent taking care of the chickens, dog, cats, cats, and cats. We share our space with several of our own cats and several foster cats, some of whom have medical issues.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I did get a bit sidetracked today. In reading an email from another writer I was reminded of the <a href="http://www.gutenberg.org/">Gutenberg Project's</a> wonderful website. I try not to go there often, because I do indeed get caught there. Today I found (again) the book above and several more in the series. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you don't know about the Gutenberg Project, here is my own explanation. I'm sure you can find a better one on Wikipedia or Google. It's basically a non-profit group whose mission is to find and scan old books that are in the public domain. There are all sorts of them already in their system. Today they show over 50,000 in their system, all free to download and read, with many many more available through their several partners. It's a great service, if you know what you're looking for. Virtually any classic book you can think of is in there, or will soon be there, and in several different formats. The only drawbacks I can think of are the lack of description for the books and the scans, while servicable, look sometimes to be unedited. You do find occasional typos. However, I did say it was free!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Back to reading. As I've said before in a previous blog here, I grew up reading this type of literature. These were mostly the books I had available, books that originally were my father's and grandparents. It was many years before I had access to an actual library regularly. (Oh boy, do I remember my first one!) Most of the youth fiction I had available therefore was a generation or two out of date. There were several World War 2 adventure novels there. Among them was Dave Dawson at Guadalcanal and A Yankee Flier With the RAF. These books were my intro to adventure fiction!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Of course, none of the books would ever be published today. Not a lot of political correctness there! They were also, obviously, pro-war, formulaic, and full of stereotypical character, both protagonist and antagonist. They were very much a product of their time. I won't apologize for that. I don't have to. I enjoyed reading the stories and I still do. I can see the times through the stories while disagreeing with many of the concepts. Not unlike reading Huckleberry Finn again. Yes, very dated, very un-PC, but that's not why we read it. We read it because Twain was a genius at capturing the times he lived in and his humor and genius shines through all that.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Okay, Robert Sydney Bowen was NOT Mark Twain, however the humor is there. Does that make me a bad person? If it does, remind me not to tell you about the Miss Minerva series!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Instead, let me tell you about my first library. I was seven, I believe. I was visiting my mother for a few weeks in Loving, New Mexico. My step-father was working in the oil fields nearby and they were living in a small trailer. We went to Carlsbad Caverns while we were there as well. My mother took us into town to the library. I had never, ever, seen so many books! Even better, we were allowed to take several home with us and exchange them as fast as we read them! It was pure heaven! I have only a few memories of that trip, but that is one of the best ones!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was an addiction, I know, and my mother was my enabler! So it goes. Now to catch up with Dave Dawson and Freddie Farmer and The Alliteration Tango! (I made that part up!)</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-9994429273094627702016-05-09T16:10:00.001-07:002016-05-09T16:10:25.082-07:00Book Review: The Preacher<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZODXnjNa9c2zeALsISqi5WczFb3waZ9QXeOa2diBRoHABHf9jOwIqU27_DqCqngV0AG-xbpfg_OODivLpBrqJY4iHFxbB8sXf_ITXGMcoEgSPS9roYLW52KoFi9N54rwUOU101LVwDuHe/s1600/Preacher-6-215x330.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZODXnjNa9c2zeALsISqi5WczFb3waZ9QXeOa2diBRoHABHf9jOwIqU27_DqCqngV0AG-xbpfg_OODivLpBrqJY4iHFxbB8sXf_ITXGMcoEgSPS9roYLW52KoFi9N54rwUOU101LVwDuHe/s320/Preacher-6-215x330.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30142269-the-preacher">The Preacher</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/777164.Ted_Thackrey_Jr_">Ted Thackrey Jr.</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1633584020">4 of 5 stars</a><br />
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Pretty good book. The first of a short series. The Preacher is an ex-priest, ex-soldier, who has found his calling as a professional poker player. He's been called to the town of Farewell, NM by an old friend from his priesthood days to help uncover what caused one of the local citizens to possibly commit suicide leaving his business and loving family behind.
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/1515795-william">View all my reviews</a>
lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-61423593703064563872016-05-07T16:14:00.003-07:002016-05-07T16:14:49.749-07:00Tools Revisited<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQ8XxrVfY5k/VDr_ZmJ1yuI/AAAAAAAABqU/AdzFM4Qtch8AMUqFX92IEHnEjfHSvvS0wCKgB/s1600/escher%2B%255B800x600%255D.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GQ8XxrVfY5k/VDr_ZmJ1yuI/AAAAAAAABqU/AdzFM4Qtch8AMUqFX92IEHnEjfHSvvS0wCKgB/s320/escher%2B%255B800x600%255D.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've posted about writing tools here before. However, I found myself replying to someone else's post about differences between Scrivener and yWriter and it started to get a bit lengthy. I thought it might be time to multitask and revisit the subject with my current state of affairs. Admittedly a lot hasn't changed. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've used yWriter5 for several years now. I've completed several short stories and have several novels under way. I got <a href="http://www.spacejock.com/yWriter5.html">yWriter</a> originally because it was free, and yes, I'm a cheapskate. Free is excellent. yWriter does everything quite well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I started using it on Windows XP, then Vista and now Linux Mint 17.3. There is no native yWriter for Linux yet, however the instructions they give on the yWriter website for running it on Linux work very well. I keep several backups of my work on backup hard drives and flash drives. My main files stay on Dropbox. I have very rarely lost any of my work but it has happened. A sentence maybe, or even a paragraph once. My fault, usually. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've looked at <a href="https://www.literatureandlatte.com/scrivener.php">Scrivener</a> for PC. I have the free intro and start it up now and then. It's very slick, but so far I haven't seen much that makes it worth paying for above yWriter. Scrivener does have a Linux version. I have also tried <a href="http://www.powerstructure.com/">Power Structure</a> and <a href="http://storymind.com/storyweaver.htm">Storyweaver</a> (paid) software. They seem marvelous, but really don't seem to work intuitively for me the way yWriter does. (Side note: Storyweaver is worth the price almost just for the informative newlsetters and free lessons they will send you after you sign up.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another one I have that has possibilities is <a href="http://www.writerscafe.co.uk/index.htm">Writer's Cafe</a>. That is more like a suite of writer's programs that looks interesting and useful. It has free and paid versions.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I occasionally write plays, for those I use <a href="https://www.celtx.com/index.html">Celtx</a>. They have a nice bundle of applications for scriptwork, mostly paid and online. However I use their free version locally on my laptop since I don't need to collaborate particularly. Check them out if you have interest in screenplays and film production, though.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've also played with mind-mapping software. It intrigues me as a brainstorming tool, but I can't really seem to get into it. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For collecting ideas I like to use <a href="https://evernote.com/">Evernote</a>, since it is fast and easy and works on all my devices. There isn't a Linux version, but there is an online version working through both Firefox and Chrome that works quite well when I'm on my laptop. That's okay because if I'm using my laptop, I'm usually on wifi, if I'm not then it's only a little less convenient to check Evernote on my smartphone. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For some of us, though, and I do mean me, the proliferation of tools often means we spend more time playing at organizing than we do actually writing. If you just want to get the story down, and especially if you're a pantser as opposed to a plotter, then a regular word processor will let you do that. I still use Word a lot. I have Word 2000 that still works quite well and I run it on a Windows emulator on my Linux machine. I also have <a href="http://www.libreoffice.org/">Libre Office,</a> a free alternative that is much newer and compatible with Word documents. I just know Word the best and I'll keep using it as long as it works. I'm stubborn that way. Old dogs/new tricks and so on. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Beyond that, there are programs such as <a href="http://www.beenokle.com/zenwriter.html">Zen Writer</a> and <a href="http://www.ommwriter.com/">Omm Writer</a> and the like that give you an even simpler text editor with even less formatting options and buttons to get in the way. Just fire it up and write in a clean space with no distracting choices to keep you from composing. Some even offer quiet music for the background. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I've dabbled with all of these now and then, and still play with them a little. However, since my novels and shorts have been parts of series it really helps to have a tool like yWriter that keeps things like storyboard, characters, places, objects and so on easily available. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On my Android phone and Fire tablet I love having apps that I can rely on to access my work whenever/wherever I want to. I have the aforementioned Evernote, Celtx Script and Index Cards, Google Docs and <a href="http://www.hancom.com/en/product/office_android.jsp">Hancom Office</a> which serves to read/edit Word or other Office type documents that come my way. I also have <a href="http://www.thebrain.com/">The Brain. </a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I also consider the ereader apps on those devices as important tools as well. I have the <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/digital/fiona/kcp-landing-page/ref=sv_kinc_1">Kindle</a> app on every device for Kindle books and <a href="http://moondownload.com/">Moon Reader</a> for any non-Kindles I may find (and I find a lot). Of course, the Kindle Fire tablet actually is a Kindle reader from the start. It took a bit of finagling to get a non-kindle reader to work on it, but nothing serious. Amazon has a lot of books for the Kindle, but there are lots that are in other formats as well. I ALWAYS have something to read!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Okay. There you have it. Two of the three "R's" covered. Readin' and 'Ritin'. One good EMP and I'm officially back to the stone age again!</span><br />
<br />lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-40357505311464723082016-04-01T09:10:00.002-07:002016-04-01T09:10:18.583-07:00Review: Camber of Culdi<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9-VkimrNXvAFGKzUxoxICT1mTwIIi3ScU7WDS4FD5YQxwy7MQk-BlWQxpT5xozHbouDqjgqKQTpl_VfzkO7ZYiPgRrhYhkk3aQmS98_7WQDJpgfa5Xzf5lWunlMAu6AI04XAf8wF89Tn/s1600/537107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga9-VkimrNXvAFGKzUxoxICT1mTwIIi3ScU7WDS4FD5YQxwy7MQk-BlWQxpT5xozHbouDqjgqKQTpl_VfzkO7ZYiPgRrhYhkk3aQmS98_7WQDJpgfa5Xzf5lWunlMAu6AI04XAf8wF89Tn/s320/537107.jpg" width="196" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is actually a re-read of an old favorite. The Culdi series by
Katherine Kurtz is a wonderfully rich historical fantasy. I love every
installment I’ve read. i consider it a must-read. Set during the time of
the Inquisition, Camber is the patriarch of one of several families of
alien origin who have integrated among humans. This story involves how
he and his family survive in an atmosphere of growing discrimination and
paranoia from The Church and Establishment. </span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-25670809552730300152016-03-16T14:05:00.001-07:002016-03-16T14:05:23.611-07:00Encounter at The Waffle House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4LhhAKyn6ykf74rMzB3JNv-D6Ax0NUjkDPGB_Lm7EP6tnGElKljBAyft9qtZV8Qmk2Os_UDdv_LunXp3v6icaMq3iuDD3EpdYn3C8u7gxGVakP8rSWZyoC0mf6MKyWhgMk4bDEXOc9DE/s1600/waffle_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT4LhhAKyn6ykf74rMzB3JNv-D6Ax0NUjkDPGB_Lm7EP6tnGElKljBAyft9qtZV8Qmk2Os_UDdv_LunXp3v6icaMq3iuDD3EpdYn3C8u7gxGVakP8rSWZyoC0mf6MKyWhgMk4bDEXOc9DE/s320/waffle_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I had to drive into the big city early this morning for some lab tests. The tests required me to be fasting, so I was pretty famished by the time it was over. A Waffle House is on the way home. I like to stop there sometimes when I'm alone and waffle and eggs sounded awesome! The place was packed! Of course, it was almost noon by then, and Austin is right in the middle of SXSW. That tends to bloat local traffic and fill up restaurants. I'm sure the businesses don't complain nearly as much as the commuters!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I had to sit at the counter, which isn't bad at all if you are alone. You get to watch them cook your food and you can observe the choreography of multiple cooks and servers sharing the same space. After a bit a gentleman sat beside me. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> After a couple of "pardon me's", shared condiments, and so on we began to talk. I learned that his name was Ron, and he is a chauffeur from San Antonio working the music festival. As we talked we discovered several shared interests. We had ordered the same breakfast, for instance. We liked much of the same foods. When he found out I was a writer we of course got into this discussion:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Ron said,"Everyone tells me I should write a book."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "I agree, you should."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "Well, I don't have a lot of education, I left school when I was sixteen."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "That doesn't really matter. I'm a big promoter of school education, but honestly that's only that top ten percent of the iceberg, as they say. Life education is that big ninety percent left over."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "Well, I've done a lot. Bad childhood, varied work, a lot of experiences."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "There you go. Start writing it down." </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "You're right. I have friends who are highly educated and writers, they've offered to help edit it."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> "Then do it. The absolute main thing is to get the story down on paper, or computer, whatever. Get it all down so it doesn't get lost. After that you can do what you want to tweak it, correct it, whatever it needs. Just get it down."</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I went on to tell him about others I've known, including my mother. I'd encouraged her for years to write her story for the rest of us. She always said she would ... someday. There was always an excuse not to do it. Finally it was too late. I didn't grow up around her, so I only heard parts of her stories. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> This is what I told Ron. We all have stories, whether they come out as truth or fiction, memoir or fantasy or all four at the same time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> So, here I am writing this. My attempt at taking my own advice.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> I went on to show Ron the Evernote app I use on my phone to take notes and organize them, clip articles from the web and so on. He downloaded it right there and said he'd use it. He has a lot of down time between riders, or waiting for people.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> We didn't share contact info, other than names, so I doubt he'll read this. However, Ron, if you're out there. Good Luck! Tell your story. You shared enough of it to let me know it's worth telling. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Of course, now it's part of my story as well. Perhaps somewhere, somehow, one of my characters will discuss life with a chauffeur in a Waffle House. That's how it goes!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Write on!</span><br />
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lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-35364550529166376962015-06-10T14:15:00.000-07:002015-06-10T14:15:07.554-07:00Review: Hail Storme<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQD7n8kPRiypn-bj5lqHlZUDMXoNUhliXcmRSRBWYFAhUSyrFwb3w04dRKTtrbMDG4i9ZbuWthR0Nt5L-U97nAj80xxqpYe7X4RGgJpGco3wslp_p7FHWGWjmlkkmyb8j77VVb74tSH4XD/s1600/cover61809-small.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQD7n8kPRiypn-bj5lqHlZUDMXoNUhliXcmRSRBWYFAhUSyrFwb3w04dRKTtrbMDG4i9ZbuWthR0Nt5L-U97nAj80xxqpYe7X4RGgJpGco3wslp_p7FHWGWjmlkkmyb8j77VVb74tSH4XD/s1600/cover61809-small.png" /></a></div>
For the first time in a very long time I have come across a book I can truly say was hard to put down. I actually read it in two spurts. Ripley is a writer who seems to truly know his stuff and I am looking forward to more from him. Wyatt Storme is as interesting and compelling a character as Robert B. Parker's Spenser. More please!lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-73423990786487291392015-04-18T20:32:00.000-07:002015-04-18T20:32:01.203-07:00Tarot Interactions<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98O6xp4H2WavkxxQT3Rd60SrJyzhbVAK5UX_aeY7ltABxkGz8LZWqhI1Y4J3Ia1iOGvG7zw9KpMN74muBGhFQkfSeNbVHQcmq8YGYRvGe6a1ads1upANvlVSPPrzud4ZjAyOrYQMuWsG9/s1600/TarotInter.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98O6xp4H2WavkxxQT3Rd60SrJyzhbVAK5UX_aeY7ltABxkGz8LZWqhI1Y4J3Ia1iOGvG7zw9KpMN74muBGhFQkfSeNbVHQcmq8YGYRvGe6a1ads1upANvlVSPPrzud4ZjAyOrYQMuWsG9/s1600/TarotInter.jpeg" height="320" width="208" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I've been taking tarot classes and using tarot for almost ten years. Tarot Interactioins by Deborah Lipp gave me some great insights into the art of reading. tarot. I learned a lot from the exercises and sample readings. Chapters on interactions between tarot and other disciplines were concise but very well thought out. I'd suggest it to everyone I know who is interested in tarot. Five stars.</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-59621998509157498122015-02-26T13:33:00.000-08:002015-02-26T13:33:54.923-08:00Review: Tail Gait by Rita Mae Brown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLaguE2zof4V-7E06CH31RK0PLhDZ-J94sB-3w12yMjT2ol-BdYGXJePdyo_sUL43MvLVRGrkhsyKrZmcn090PztVoXhULsVtvDj60Q_KeXeLtUoQ4Zu6M_24B4XuJdOeLtfasJe5H7Qi/s1600/cover60682-medium.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRLaguE2zof4V-7E06CH31RK0PLhDZ-J94sB-3w12yMjT2ol-BdYGXJePdyo_sUL43MvLVRGrkhsyKrZmcn090PztVoXhULsVtvDj60Q_KeXeLtUoQ4Zu6M_24B4XuJdOeLtfasJe5H7Qi/s1600/cover60682-medium.png" height="320" width="210" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I just finished the upcoming novel Tail Gait, by Rita Mae Brown. It's a very good read if you enjoy a good cozy with paws. This one has Harry and her furry assistants ferreting out a couple of murders connected to the local university and its football team alumni. It has been awhile since I looked at this series of mysteries and I'm glad to see that it continues with vigor. The title comes out from Bantam in May of 2015 and it's worth watching for.</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-57826533429069813022014-12-19T19:37:00.000-08:002014-12-19T19:43:32.053-08:00Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays. Happy Yule, etc. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyvFpcMUjNV-IDtV9INuj2IgS2Hihkj_36uMV26JoDhTFQW6V9pj8lK8J-7Hzvk_Y7YjD9q_caTgb1zjNn6RtHEImBzpSddfAEzbKaoLKx5aoqlq9oDoy5PAndvAGtsSOp0HHI14M1zc6/s1600/lights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyvFpcMUjNV-IDtV9INuj2IgS2Hihkj_36uMV26JoDhTFQW6V9pj8lK8J-7Hzvk_Y7YjD9q_caTgb1zjNn6RtHEImBzpSddfAEzbKaoLKx5aoqlq9oDoy5PAndvAGtsSOp0HHI14M1zc6/s1600/lights.jpg" height="200" width="107" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Up to almost 4K words on the third Parson Short mystery story, "Hanging Chad". Once again Short is drawn into a murder investigation in concert with the county sheriff's office. See how the Cedar City, Texas PI fares when dealing with a web of deceit and corruption.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> Probably close to 6K when finished. Might even make it before Christmas. Have a Merry!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-41724876768050852742014-11-07T16:30:00.000-08:002014-11-07T16:30:05.701-08:00Progress Report: It's Vampire Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj789Me66-yPGzLtc2CstB_gmiEaXB8AhJ_vXR6k4rr9XzEeQLe4PRt68E8aFJKuxMVgda1uqnaPTvRkzn5TZt53ic5rFUzN-s3XrDgt9VzHgsn1SmADGe5eMB2qMaJSpFags9MemEEp7NS/s1600/IMG_1173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj789Me66-yPGzLtc2CstB_gmiEaXB8AhJ_vXR6k4rr9XzEeQLe4PRt68E8aFJKuxMVgda1uqnaPTvRkzn5TZt53ic5rFUzN-s3XrDgt9VzHgsn1SmADGe5eMB2qMaJSpFags9MemEEp7NS/s1600/IMG_1173.JPG" height="320" width="209" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> I found this cover awhile back and it always makes me smile!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_QkZwcV0RR4-UVqwlcQJRc8R2XnuudSIgL1pWJzmWO_7O5k-NqtpFCCD_UOGpHHmvT7r_3VmBXRFmqlQdn68kP_MM-B4nwJ7GsgWgQPl7fF_ILYO2HfD9F7Rr0YwXeG_GHS5pQCi-tZi/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR_QkZwcV0RR4-UVqwlcQJRc8R2XnuudSIgL1pWJzmWO_7O5k-NqtpFCCD_UOGpHHmvT7r_3VmBXRFmqlQdn68kP_MM-B4nwJ7GsgWgQPl7fF_ILYO2HfD9F7Rr0YwXeG_GHS5pQCi-tZi/s1600/001.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This is a study I did for my just finished play. More below!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="userContent"> I was at a retreat last weekend. It was a
gathering of my witchy and pagan friends over near Wimberley, Tx. Four
and a half days at a lovely and private country place with no cats to
feed, etc. Can you say awesome Halloween ni<span class="text_exposed_show">ght?
My lovely lady was being Kitchen Goddess and I of course volunteered to
help. In the midst of visiting with a bunch of my closest friends old
and new I turned it into my very own writing retreat! It was easy. The
scheduling was pretty free-form except for meals. There were voluntary
workshops or classes offered around Samhain/Halloween sorts of things.
Since I was already hanging around the dining area a lot, and it was
often pretty quiet except for conversations, I pulled out my laptop and
finished off a play I've been working on. <br /> I used to write more
plays when I was more active in theater. I've posted a couple in this blog. I still have a few ideas
back-burnered. Some have been worked into current novel or short story
projects. I do enjoy writing plays, but I've been trying to focus more on novels and short stories the last few years. "The Vampire's Quiche" is one that never let go of me, and it
just feels like it wants to be a play. I can so "see" it playing out in
my head! I think of it as a Halloween play, although it isn't,
necessarily. It's been on back burner for several years and I pull it
out and dust it off and play with it around this time of year. I finally decided to just finish it and let people see it.<br />
The story is about the Pettus family. An extended family living in one
suburban house. Father works, mom likes to bake, the kids are nearly
grown. Uncle is unemployed, Aunt reads Tarot and Grandpa thinks he's a
vampire. <br /> Think "The Munsters" meets "You Can't Take It With You". <br />
This play is a lot of fun, and it feels wonderful to finally get
the first draft finished. I hoping a few of my writing/theater friends
will offer to give it a read and offer some feedback.</span></span></span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-47538083804194768112014-09-07T13:20:00.000-07:002014-09-07T13:20:06.094-07:00Dark and Stormy Night<style type="text/css">TD P { margin-bottom: 0in; }H1 { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }H1.western { font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; }H1.cjk { font-family: "DejaVu Sans"; font-size: 24pt; }H1.ctl { font-family: "Lohit Hindi"; font-size: 24pt; }P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }A:link { }</style>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-EiNzckEmioBA1Id2BSZytde2-F-g9KY3aYglGRC2tq6sWJtLpslLvqPOAO0ROrvbh-0glXxOcqW0OZECc-7b6y02XkGzfPzGrAReEyJET9b7RjO7-z58nBwIVhtmpbD0kT-UxkoULKt/s1600/BigComboTrailer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv-EiNzckEmioBA1Id2BSZytde2-F-g9KY3aYglGRC2tq6sWJtLpslLvqPOAO0ROrvbh-0glXxOcqW0OZECc-7b6y02XkGzfPzGrAReEyJET9b7RjO7-z58nBwIVhtmpbD0kT-UxkoULKt/s1600/BigComboTrailer.jpg" height="196" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Image from "The Big Combo" 1955) <br />
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Dark and Stormy Night </span></h1>
<h1 class="western" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">by William Seward</span></h1>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Grimaldi knew when the phone rings at three in the morning it doesn't mean good news. Being on call means you can't turn the pesky thing off. He answered with a gruff "Grimaldi!" The dispatcher told him the address, he slapped some water on his face, dressed himself again and was out the door. Great, the crappy weather fit his mood. <br />The address was a duplex. He didn't know the uniform in the driveway. He flashed his badge, grunted "Grimaldi" and was told the way to the scene where he finally saw a familiar face.<br />Detective Bob Patrick handed Grimaldi a cup of Starbucks best, strictly black, no frou-frou, just the thing to make him verbal again. He got out something that sounded like "thanks" and grabbed a quick swallow of the brew before being shown into the apartment.<br />Bob introduced him to the victim. "Case MacTavish. Bass player for the house band at the Hot Spot down the street. A few priors, nothing major. His girlfriend found him when she got in from her shift. She works at the Pik n Pay all night grocery, also in the neighborhood. She's Marge Griswold. She said he had a gig tonight, hasn't seen him since this morning. Nobody heard anything. Unit next door is vacant now."<br />"Stabbed?"<br />"A lot!" The tech looked up. Another face he knew, Ned Olson. "We'll know when we autopsy for sure, but looks like a dozen times at least."<br />Grimaldi looked at the bloody knife Bob showed him a in a tagged evidence bag. "Murder weapon?" <br />"Could be. Hard to say right now. Victim was holding it in his hand." <br />"Think he got a few licks in?" <br />The tech looked around, "lot of blood. Could be. We'll run it, see if it's all his."<br />Bob motioned to the bedroom. "The lady is in there. Ready to get her story?"<br />Grimaldi took a mental inventory. It seemed like his brain cells and his mouth were firing on as many cylinders as they usually did, good or bad. <br />"Okay. First, though, think it's her?" <br />"I'm not sure. I'll let you decide for yourself."</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">It had been at least an hour since Marge was told to wait in the bedroom with a policewoman. There was a knock on the door, both women sat up a bit. A man entered. Marge had never met him but she knew his face from pictures in the newspaper. Having him in her bedroom didn't increase her desire to know him. The policewoman stayed. Grimaldi sat. Even sitting he was a couple of inches taller than Marge.<br />"Ms. Griswold, I'm Detective Grimaldi. I'm sorry for your loss."<br />"Thank you. Case had his faults, but no one deserves this!"<br />"How long have you known each other?"<br />"We met at the Hot Spot just after I got back. About a year ago."<br />"Got back?"<br />"Afghanistan. Two tours."<br />"Then you've probably seen some bad stuff too."<br />"Pretty bad. Worse when it's one you know, like Case."<br />Bob called Grimaldi to the next room. He showed him his notebook. "The victim was playing sets at the Hot Spot till midnight. Said he was going home. Ms. Griswold was working checkout at the grocery till two a.m. Called in the 911 at 2:15. Just about enough time to walk home. Tech says best guess now on time of death was around one. Gives her an alibi." <br />"Maybe. Remember, it's a murder case, everybody lies."<br />"You're a cynical bastard."<br />Grimaldi grunted, went back into the bedroom. <br />"Ms. Griswold. Was MacTavish fighting with anyone recently? Anybody threaten him? Was he worried about anything?"<br />"Nothing I knew of. I mean, he worked in a bar in a bad part of town. Not a lady's club. But I never saw any trouble."<br />"Detective Patrick has the rest of your statement. We'll go over it again tomorrow at the station. Do you have anywhere to go tonight?"<br />"A friend from work. I'll call her."<br />"It will be a couple of days before you can get back in here. I'll want you to come into the station tomorrow and sign your statement. Officer Maddox here will help you pack."<br />A voice came from the front room. "Detective, you need to see this!" Grimaldi and both women went to the door.<br />A long-haired black and white cat strolled in the door carrying a trophy between his teeth. Obviously pleased with himself, he passed the assembled officers and techs and made a chattering noise as he approached Marge. He neatly dropped the prize at her feet, licked himself, and sailed to the top of the nearby refrigerator where he sat like a sphinx.<br />At Marge's feet was a large, hairy knuckled finger bearing a bulky gold ring. <br />Grimaldi looked at Marge. "Your cat?"<br />"Case's, sort of. I think he came with the duplex. We've been calling him Moki."<br />Grimaldi picked up the finger with a reversed bag and looked at it before zipping it inside. "MacTavish wasn't missing any digits, I guess this answers the question about whether he fought back. Recognize anything?"<br />Marge was looking thoughtful. She hesitated. "No."<br />Grimaldi noticed. "I'm not sure I believe you."<br />"No, it's nothing."<br />He let it pass for the present. The two detectives finally left. Only part of Marge's attention was on the rest of it; packing her things with Rose's assistance, the trip to Patsy's apartment. <br />That ring! She knew it!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Chapter 2</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Mort Gomez was in pain. His left pinky was gone and it hurt like nothing he'd ever felt. And his ring! The ring he had taken off the body of his own uncle Carlo after he'd knifed him to death. A family heirloom, that's what it was!<br />But the pain! The boss had taken him to a veterinarian he used sometimes. The man owed too much to talk to anyone. He'd given Mort some kind of painkillers, for horses, probably, but they didn't work on HIM! The bandaged hand throbbed, forget that he kept bumping it into things when he moved. It was agony! <br />Who'd a thought that damn bass player, MacTavish had the spunk to grab the knife and put up a fight?<br />Mort looked out the window. Night was falling in the miserable weather, but it made little difference. The rain hadn't stopped in three days. The damp made his hand hurt even worse, if that was possible. <br />He heard a car door slam, he stepped behind the front door as it opened. Joey Marbles stepped into the room. The boss bumped the door back abruptly, it bumped Mort's hand. He screamed and fell back into a chair blubbering.<br />The boss looked at Mort, shaking his head. "I can't believe it. My best enforcer, Mort Gomez. Killer extreme. Crying in a flop house on the ass end of town!"<br />Mort just shook his head, still moaning. <br />"C'mon, man up. I have to ask you something."<br />Mort tried to sit up straight. The boss was the boss. <br />"The cops are everywhere asking questions. Mostly that detective Grimaldi, I think we've got a handle on him, though. There's someone else, though."<br />"Who?"<br />"Do you know this woman?" Joey handed over his cell phone. There was a picture on the screen. "She's asking all around about you."<br />"No, I don't.... wait. She works at the grocery. The one where I buy my cigarettes. She checked me out a few times."<br />"Well, she's looking for you now and they say is she's MacTavish's squeeze."<br />Mort stifled another groan. "What can she know? And what is she planning to do about it?"<br />"You tell me. Mort. She's your buddy!"<br />"She's got nothing on me."<br />"Maybe we need to make sure. We'll do it together."<br />"I don't know."<br />"C'mon, you can do it, if you can stop crying long enough."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Mort ate another half bottle of aspirin and got into the car. Joey drove them back to the neighborhood near the grocery. They parked in an alley. It wasn't long, but it seemed forever to the suffering Mort. Finally he recognized Marge passing the alley and he called out to her, stifling a groan. <br />The two men stood with guns behind their back as she approached, rain cap on her head and hands in her raincoat pockets. Joey thought the woman seemed too relaxed for a dark alley. Finally she was close enough to see their faces in the gloom. To Mort she said, "show me your hands."<br />Mort raised the bandage. Marge nodded when she saw the white bandage. The men made their move. Three shots rang out, echoing along the walls of the pitch black alley. Joey went down immediately, Mort stumbled forward, grasping at Marge. <br />When Grimaldi arrived at the scene, he found two victims, one gripping the end of a torn belt in his bandaged hand. A belt only a woman would wear, perhaps on her raincoat. <br />Three blocks away, Marge tossed her torn coat into a dumpster and entered a thrift shop. <br />The little red coat in the window was just the thing. The rain is stopping. Tomorrow promised to be a better day. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">------------------------</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><i>An exercise from writing class to incorporate furnished random sentences into a short story.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
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lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-22862020253694628952014-08-07T15:11:00.001-07:002014-08-07T15:11:10.970-07:00The Long Awaited Chapter 5 of The Azure Shade of the Bluebottle Tree<h1>
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</h1>
<h1>
Chapter 5</h1>
<br />
<table align="center" border="0" style="width: 790px;">
<tbody>
<tr><td><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Lammas/Lughnasa
is one of the eight traditional sabbats but it is sometimes skipped, at
least in Central Texas. Seasonally, it feels a bit out of place. Back
in Celtic times and places, the first of August was indeed a time for
harvest of grains and all that, but here in Texas it is just darn hot.
Sometimes the festivals that were designed for places with one growing
season were an odd fit for a place with two, or sometimes three. It's
also a "fire" festival. There was no fire this time, for the sake of the
temperature and the county-wide fire ban that was in its sixty-third
day. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen thought it was
wishful thinking to celebrate the "end" of summer when they wouldn't be
seeing cooler days for several months. He looked forward to the Fall
equinox, Mabon, and then October's Samhain, the witch's new year, and
the really kick-ass ritual. That aside, Owl and Lisa Garrison had done a
great job on Lammas. Owl was the name Oso's wife Teresa used for
magickal work. Some pagans used their own names, as Lisa and Pen did.
Others choose names that suit them or represent a totem animal or
interest. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Just as it is for
spells, with rituals it is the intent that is important. Working a spell
in community is always affirming. The fellowship after the ritual is
fun too. Sharing bread, fruit, and wine with the others is always a
treat. Pen looked around at this, his community of friends, his family
of choice. Lisa was there, and Elena. Oso and Owl brought kolaches. Esme
and the girls had brought pan dulce. Morgan's ice-cold sangria was
fruity and refreshing. It was nice being with Esme and the girls.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Officially, Lammas
is August 1. Since that would be mid-week, they celebrated the weekend
before. More of them could make it on a weekend. They had a good turn
out considering the heat. For the past several years the circle had met
here on Lisa Garrison's property. She had a perfect oak grove, open in
the center, shady with a good constant breeze. A spring fed creek ran
nearby with a small pool to cool off in. The circle took turns keeping
it neat for meetings. It was one of Pen's favorite places. There are a
couple of permanent altars near, one to Diana, another to Green Man.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Even better, there
was a view of Cedar Knob. On a moonlit night it was a magical sight.
The hill loomed in the distance, the highest feature around, the top
flattened as if a mesa had been transplanted from Anasazi country.
Something about it made the viewer feel adrift in space and time. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">For ritual purposes the sight felt almost as mystical as Stonehenge.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> As things wound
down, they all hugged, kissed, and made their various ways home. Pen and
Steve helped Owl and Lisa clean up the last few things and they started
home themselves. Pen dropped Steve off at the house he shared with his
mom, Renee. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Steve barely
remembered his dad. Pen's brother Sam died when Steve was four. Steve
was now sixteen and growing up fast. Renee had been living with Darnell
Culver for several years now. Steve never talked about him. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Pen felt uncomfortable about Darnell. He knew most of the Culvers but didn't know Darnell very well. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Steve took Pen
around and showed him Sam's old '55 Chevy BelAir that he was restoring.
The work was coming along. It even looked as if the car might be
finished by the time Steve got his driver's license.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen admired the car and left for home. He didn't see Renee or Darnell around. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Steve was a cool
kid and it was great sharing the ritual, but Pen felt a bit down going
home alone after dropping him off. Esme had been in one of her distant
moods, friendly, but not encouraging. Pen respected her feelings but he
missed having someone to come home to. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Nothing seemed
amiss on the back roads from Renee's place. Pen reached his yard, fed
Mau and Odin and unloaded the truck. He thought about the ritual and the
conversations. No one had much to say about Dub Holt or Charlie. The
murders were still too recent and painful. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> The classical
radio station from Austin was playing Albinoni's Adagio for Strings. One
of Pen's favorites, but a bit blue for this night. He turned it off and
popped an old tape of "Hondo" into his trusty VCR. Sleep claimed him
before the credits rolled.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><center>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
* * *</span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</center>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Early Monday
morning Pen saw a work van parked in the tow away zone by the Main
Street phone substation. He doubted he was the first to notice but
there was no reason to broadcast the news by radio to everybody's
brother-in-law with a scanner. Pen stopped by Machado's Market and used
their phone to check with dispatching. They didn't have anything, as he
had suspected, so he made another call and got the answer. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen drove around the corner and parked. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> It looked like a
utility van, one of those contractors who worked for one of the phone
companies. The driver was eating a breakfast taco. The engine was off,
but Pen could hear a generator running in back. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> He knew the driver. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> "Hey, Mick. Announce me." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Mick shrugged and
knocked twice on the divider as Pen walked around the van. One of the
back doors opened just enough for him to slip inside.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The inside was all
high tech. Pen could see cameras aimed out a dark tinted window,
recorders ready to record something. His eyes took a second to recover
after the bright sunlight outside. Two men were seated in captain's
chairs. Both looked at him. Brad, the older one, spoke. "Damn, Pen, you
just made us to every dealer in town." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> "Too late, that's who told me you were here. You working for D.E.A. now?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"They wish. Meet
Agent Frank Stark, he's the D.E.A. guy. This is his operation. Frank,
this is Deputy Constable Pen Sadler, Precinct 3." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Stark looked barely old enough to drive. He looked Pen over. He ignored the outstretched hand and turned back to Brad. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Is this some sort of joke, Scott?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"No joke." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Texas Ranger Brad Scott turned back to Pen. "What gave us away?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"My source didn't
say for sure, but I can think of a couple of things. It's a small town,
remember? I didn't recognize the van. Also, nobody put cones out." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Ignoring Pen, Stark asked Brad, "Cones?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Brad looked
disgusted. "Traffic cones, Frank, every phone truck and contractor
carries them. It's company policy. They have to put out cones when they
stop anywhere, even for coffee! Damn! Your special van here doesn't have
any!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Stark waved that away. "Whatever, that doesn't give this local an excuse to blow our cover. This operation is important!" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Brad looked back
at him and shook his head, "You don't get it. The cover is already
blown. We'll have to think of something else." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"What do you mean?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"As Pen just
informed us, word is already out on the street that this is a
surveillance setup. No wonder we haven't seen any action." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen said, "I called in, there wasn't anything on the books about any operation by you guys in town." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Brad waved it away. "Nothing personal, Frank here just wanted to keep a low profile." Brad gave a rueful laugh as he said it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Stark was growing indignant, all his plans falling through. "Who do you think you are, constable?." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Brad laughed. "Pull in your horns, Frank. You know those people you piss off who say they can have you fired?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Yeah, so?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Pen really can. He's got connections you wouldn't imagine!" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Frank looked skeptical </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Besides", Brad said, winking at Pen, "Pen here is a witch. He can make your pecker fall off too!" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Stark actually looked more interested than scared. The other two saved him the trouble of a reply. They left.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Carol's Cafe wasn't busy other than the mid-day domino players. Pen and Brad picked a table and ordered coffee. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Pen had questions, but first he needed to make a point. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You know I don't do that." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Do what?" </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Make his pecker fall off. We don't do that sort of thing." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Brad laughed,
"make him wonder, though. Youngster like that. They're giving badges out
in kindergarten these days. Don't worry about it. It's not even that
big an operation. It's just Frank's first." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I hope you can keep him alive." </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Me too, pardner, me too. So, who really told you about the van?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Ernie."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Damn, of course. He doesn't miss anything."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Ernest Dry was the
town character. In many ways he was considered slow. He was very canny
in his own way. His brother Harry was a city councilman as well.
Everybody took care of Ernie, he noticed everything, and most people
just ignored him. In exchange for soda money he was happy to keep Pen
informed. It was the same with everyone. He rarely had to buy his own
Dr. Pepper. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> The men sipped
their coffee. Carol's donuts were legendary. They each had two. Brad and
Pen went way back. They'd played on rival teams in high school, and had
worked together several times over the years. Ranger Brad Scott looked
at Pen now. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"With your
training and contacts, you could have gone anywhere, even federal. Why
do you want to stay here in hicksville and let a no-good shit kicker
sheriff bust your chops? I don't get it. And, what's with this Deputy
Constable thing? You could even be working with me, real partners."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Babysitting Frank in there? No thanks!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You know what I mean! You're too good for this!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I do know what
you mean, and thanks. I like it here. I know these folks. I don't need
that fast lane, been there, done that. Got the bloody t-shirt."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You know I've got your back, no matter what."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I know, and I appreciate it. Now, do you know anything about the Dub Holt and Charlie Adams cases?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Nothing you
don't, I'm sure. I think the department finished the lab work. I can't
see your sheriff asking for our help on anything else."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Well, he doesn't want mine either, but he's getting it. Sara Beth made sure of that."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I'd sure want to keep her happy too! Let me know if I can help."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"You know I will. In fact, I'm counting on it. Glad to see you again, Brad. Let me get the check."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Brad winked. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"We'll let Frank pay for it. He's got the expense account!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen grinned at that and waved at Carol as he left. Brad went back to Frank's stakeout.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><center>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />
* * *</span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</center>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> It was too early
for the First Fidelity lobby to be open, but the green lights were lit
in the drive-thru. Pen saw Josie Delgado behind the teller window. He
punched the intercom button. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Hi, Ms. Delgado. Is Tandy in this morning?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Sure is, Pen. I'll ask him to let you in."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen walked around
to the glass doors in time to see Tandy McAlister unlock the door. Tandy
was a tall and dignified seventy seven. He'd married his high school
sweetheart, Grace Parsons, way back when. He still wrote her love poems
and called her Lady Grace. Tandy retired as high school principal the
same year Pen graduated. He then took a position as vice-president of
First Fidelity and for the last few years had been on the Shin Oak City
Council. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Following Tandy to
his office now Pen had to put down a vague feeling of being in trouble.
Tandy was still Principal McAlister to Pen's generation. He carried his
years better than most men his age, at least until today. Looking at
him now Pen could see all of those years and more on Tandy's face.
Tandy's handshake was uncharacteristically limp and he shook his head
sadly as he circled his desk. He motioned Pen to a chair and then sat
heavily himself.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"How are you doing, Mr. Mac?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"To tell you the
truth Pen, I just don't know. It's a terrible thing, just terrible!
First Dub and now Charlie. I can't bear it!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I wasn't sure you'd be open today, actually. Patricia said you would, though."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I didn't want to.
We have so many time sensitive operations, though, somebody had to be
here. Might as well open. I haven't even looked at what Dub and Charlie
were handling. I'm not totally sure on the protocols. With this much of a
disruption we may even have bank examiners involved."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"We're going to
have to let a forensics team look at whatever they were doing anyway,
you know. Something got them both killed. It seems likely to be
something they were handling here at the bank, don't you think?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I suppose you're
right Pen, I just can't imagine what it could be. We're just a small
town bank, nothing major going on. Heck, any big money usually goes to
one of the big banks in Austin!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Well, keep your
eyes open, Mr. Mac. Let me know if you come across anything that might
explain it. We'll be in later this afternoon after the lobby closes to
interview everyone."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I'll make sure everyone is here. Do you think I could be in danger too?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"There's no way to know. I'll check in on you now and then. I didn't see Randy outside, is he still on security?"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">" He's still here."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I'll tell him to keep his eyes open. We'll put a patrol by your house as well."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"Thanks, Pen. I don't want to worry Lady Grace."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"How's she doing? We haven't seen her out and about."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"She's fine, staying close to the air conditioner."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;">"I wish we all could, Mr. Mac! See you this afternoon!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Pen shook his hand again and left the office. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 18pt;">
<span style="font-size: large;"> Randy Perkins,
the bank guard, had nothing much to add. He was shocked and saddened by
the deaths, but was unable to shed any light on their actions. After
telling him to keep his eyes open, Pen said his goodbys and left the
bank feeling that he knew even less than when he came in.</span> </div>
<div style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 18pt;">
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />Printed: 07-Aug-2014, 16:52lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-19321375674579228052014-07-27T17:05:00.001-07:002014-07-27T17:07:04.653-07:00Trophies<style type="text/css">P.sdendnote-western { margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: "Courier New",monospace; font-size: 10pt; }P.sdendnote-cjk { margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10pt; }P.sdendnote-ctl { margin-bottom: 0in; font-family: "Courier New",monospace; font-size: 12pt; }P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; direction: ltr; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); }P.western { font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10pt; }P.cjk { font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 10pt; }P.ctl { font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; }</style>
<br />
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>TROPHIES</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A
Play in One Act</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">by
William C. Seward</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>Performance
Rights</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
is an infringement of federal copyright law to copy or reproduce this
script in any manner or to perform this play without royalty payment.
The author controls all rights. Contact for additional scripts and
further licensing information. The author’s name must appear on all
programs and promotional material. William C. Seward: lastromantic49@yahoo.com</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;">July 27, 2014</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Copyright
© 2002 by Bill Seward</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div align="CENTER" class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <b>TROPHIES</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Characters:</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 2in; text-indent: -2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Paul
O'Conner: Sculptor</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 2in; text-indent: -2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sylvia O'Conner: His
wife.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 2in; orphans: 2; text-indent: -2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lena Samuels: Art
teacher.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 2in; orphans: 2; text-indent: -2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Brick
Samuels: Lena's husband. H.S. Football coach.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 2in; orphans: 2; text-indent: -2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Cheryl
Kaminsky: Lena's best friend.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 2in; orphans: 2; text-indent: -2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Chief Gray: Jenson
police chief.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Scene:
The living room of the Samuels house. A window looks into the front
yard. A door leads outside. Another door leads to kitchen/bedrooms.
The room is tastefully decorated, but not too expensively. There is a
stuffed deer head on the wall, sports trophies, autographed football.
There should be at least one painting, fairly good, on the wall. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Time:
Present day. Spring. Early evening, midweek.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lighting
note: There is a mention of "fantasy mode". This is left to
the discretion of the lighting designer. I envision a mix obviously
different from the "normal" scene lighting.</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; page-break-before: always; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(AT RISE: LENA
stands at the window looking into the yard, she is tense, frightened,
worried. At first she speaks in almost a monotone, as if hypnotized.
CHERYL stands beside her, watching both her and what is going on
outside. Muffled noises off: Sirens, shouts, crackle of fire, muffled
explosions. Reflections of flashing lights, and flickering firelight
against early twilight outside.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So
much smoke for such a small car!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
gas tank blew already. And the tires.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Brick's
going to have a coronary.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">His
new driveway is melting. The mailbox is already gone.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
hope you already got the mail.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Nodding.) </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
may already be a winner.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
today.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
looks like one of those "dream" paintings you do. You want
to discuss this?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
to discuss?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Jesus,
girl! A yellow sports car is going up in flames in your front yard.
The entire Jenson volunteer fire department is trampling Brick's
lawn. The citizens of Jenson, population 930 on a good day, are in
your street, and you ask "What's to discuss?" </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section1">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You think people
will talk?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lena, this is the
biggest thing to happen since the grain silo exploded in '53. Will
they talk? "Next on Geraldo.....!"</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Looking up
through the window.) </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's a lot of
smoke. It just hangs there, like a black fist waiting to... to....</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(she turns away.) </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don't know.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Smoke from the
tires, I guess. Look, Brick and Chief Gray will be coming in here,
you know they will. What will you say? Christ, honey, you haven't
even told me anything, what will you tell them?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don't know
anything about it. Why ask me?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(physically turning
Lena to window)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lena, look out
there. They all know that was Paul's car. No one else drives a
yellow sports car. You're his friend. Of course they'll ask you, and
Brick is already pissed.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> (Resigned) </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're right. I
thought I knew Paul. I never thought he was . . . capable of this. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(To herself) </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How could anyone be
capable of this? Why couldn't he just . . .</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just what?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nothing.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Glancing out
window) </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well, here come
Brick and the Chief. I don't think "nothing" is going to
cut it.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(From off, sound of
stamping, feet wiping. CHIEF's voice.)</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section2">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Off)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I think it's about
burned itself out now, Brick. Soon it'll be cool enough to check.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(BRICK
and CHIEF enter from front door. CHIEF seems calm, efficient, BRICK
is seething)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Somebody should be
looking for that damn artist. I've got damages out there, dammit.
He's gonna pay. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Brick, we have to
look at everything. It could have been an accident.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I find that asshole
he'll think accident. He'll wish he was still in that fried banana.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(To CHIEF)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Was Paul...
anyone... in it?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It doesn't look
like it. Hard to say. Some of these car fires burn so hot you can't
tell a body from a seat cover. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Sees LENA's
distress)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sorry, Lena, no, no
one was seen in the car, but then, nobody noticed much of anything
until the fire started. </span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(To BRICK)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The deputies are
looking for O'Conner now. If they find him we'll see what he knows
about this.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Keep me posted, and
I want to know who's gonna clean up that mess out there. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Can't help you
there. Let us finish looking it over, maybe tomorrow you can start
on it.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I guess it'll have
to do.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And
for the rest, let us handle it. We'll find out what's going on. Don't
worry. Save your energy for that track tournament Saturday. See you
folks later.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(CHIEF exits, BRICK
turns to window and looks out, pointedly turning his back on LENA.
There is an uncomfortable beat, then the phone rings, BRICK answers)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Coach
Samuels. . . . Hello. . . is anyone there?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Hangs up)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Another
hangup. . . Cheryl, I really appreciate you being here, and I know
Lena does too but I need to talk to her for a bit. Do you mind?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No,
it's your house. I should be heading home anyway. Call me, either of
you, if you need me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Okay,
thanks Cheryl.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yeah,
thanks.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Bye,
now.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(She exits)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Pause
to be sure CHERYL is gone. Then in a controlled voice.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
want to tell me about it?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Cheryl
asked the same thing. I don't know what's happening.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That
was Cheryl, I'm me. You know, your husband.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Turns to window.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't know anything about it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Grabs her shoulder,
turns her around, holds her with both hands.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
give me that. That's your buddy's car out there. That artist. He
torched it for some reason.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
hurting me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Releasing her.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Excuse
me, I'm a bit worked up. My flipping yard is on fire. I put a lot of
work in that. All our so-called friends and neighbors are gawking at
our house. I haven't done anything to deserve this, it must be you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
haven't done anything.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That
guy didn't torch his own car for no reason. I know I'm not an
"artist" but that's a little extreme for an argument over
paintbrushes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
a sculptor.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know what I mean.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(he pauses, then)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
want to know what's been happening. Are you seeing this guy behind my
back?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(looking away)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
He's just a friend.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A
couple of weeks ago you were singing him for a song. Paul this, Paul
that! You expect me to believe that there's nothing between you? .
.Look at me!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Reluctantly almost
looking at him.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nothing.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
something sure as hell happened. Someone sure got worked up. Look out
there! This is really happening! This is not one of those crazy
dreams of yours.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Turning away)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
have to go to class.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Grabbing her arm)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
walk out on this, not now!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
have to go. We don't have substitutes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
let you teach art, I didn't know you'd spend all your time at the
damn school. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
only one night a week.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
can take tonight off.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
These people paid for their classes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Is
"he" going to be there?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
police are looking for him aren't they? I don't know.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He'd
better not be there. I'll find out.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
going to check up on me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
have reason to.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section3">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Suit
yourself, I have to go. We'll talk later.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(She gathers her
things)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes
we will.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(LENA exits. BRICK
exits to kitchen, returns with can of beer, stands at window
drinking. As he crushes can, lights go down.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">End
of Scene 1</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Scene 2</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(TIME: About an hour
later. Outside the windows it is dark.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(AT RISE:BRICK is on
sofa drinking beer and watching television, he seems preoccupied,
keeps punching buttons on the remote. There is a knock at the door.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Turning off T.V.,
not moving from sofa.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Who
is it?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Opening door,
looking in.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Not looking at her)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lena's
not here.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
know, it's a class night.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If
you know, then why . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
wanted to talk to you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Looking at her
finally.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh
yeah?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well
you did ask me to see what I could find out.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh,
yeah. So tell me, what's happening?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Indicating Brick's
beer.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Can
I have one of those?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know where they are.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Speaking while
exiting to kitchen and returning with beer.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did
she have an explanation for what happened today?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Of
course not. She said she didn't know. What did she tell you?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nothing.
She was awfully worried about it though.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Something
got that artist awfully worked up for him to set fire to his own car.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Something?
Or someone.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
do you mean?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Brick,
both of you are my friends. Lena is like my own sister, but I don't
like what she's doing to you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
what I want to know, what she's doing.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section4">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">She wouldn't talk
to me. Whatever it is, I don't think you're being treated very
fairly.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">She is not going to
make a fool out of me, not here. I won't allow it.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We've known each
other a long time, you deserve better than that.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What do you mean?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Whatever is going
on, she's hiding it. What kind of marriage is that?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not so hot.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're a good man.
You've taken care of her. Is this how she repays you? </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll kill both of
them.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's not
necessary. Just don't let them hurt you anymore.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Doing it is harder
than saying it.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just look around at
what you have. There are others who care about you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What do you mean?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">C'mon, you're not
stupid, you have to know what I'm talking about. Look at me, I'm
right here. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section5">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Me.
I've always been here, under your nose. I can be everything you want,
just give me a chance.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
Lena's friend.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
yours if you'll have me. She doesn't want you, I do.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why
are you saying all this?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've
waited as long as I can. I thought you would see a long time ago. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He turns away)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't know, Cheryl. This isn't what I wanted for my life.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Touching his
shoulder.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Open
your eyes Brick. Look at what you've got, and what you could have.
She's hurting you, don't let it keep happening. We can be so good
together.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Cheryl,
I . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hush,
don't say anything.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(She holds him in
her arms, he stands stiffly, then slowly relaxes. He returns her
embrace, they kiss.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Blackout)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">End Scene 2</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Scene 3</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(TIME: Nearly
midnight. There is no light in the living room except the television.
BRICK is lying on the sofa, apparently asleep. LENA opens the outside
door and enters quietly. She sees BRICK and pauses, crosses to turn
off TV, then stops. Turns, starts to exit quietly to kitchen. Is
almost out when BRICK speaks)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've
been waiting.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
thought you were asleep.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Too
much happening. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He turns on lamp at
end table)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
Bulls won again.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He drains his
beer.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How
many of those have you had?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Glancing at TV,
turning it off.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
enough to make Rupaul look good. What took so long? Class was out at
ten.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
takes time to straighten up, get everyone out, lock up, drive home.
You know that. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
not sure I know anything anymore. A lot of surprises lately.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
anyway, everyone wanted to stand around and talk about . . . what
happened.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yeah.
Hard to get away with anything in a small town. I always liked that
before. You always knew pretty much where you stood.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So,
where do you stand?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section6">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm where I want to
be, doing what I want to do. I thought you wanted to be here too. Do
you?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes . . . I do.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Do you? I wonder.
Nothing is what it seems to be today. For once I don't know where I
stand, and I don't like it. Are you leaving me?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">. . . No.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don't know what's
happened. I don't think I want to know. I just want everything to
stay like it was. I love you Lena. </span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I . . . love you
too, Brick.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's happening to
us?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don't know. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What is it?
Something I don't do for you? Something I can change? What?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's not you,
Brick, it's me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There must be
something we can do to make things right again.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Everything is all
right. Really!</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What about that
artist? </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section7">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No one's seen him.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You know what I
meant.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's nothing
else to say. He's just a friend.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not much of one, to
do all of this to us. Not much of a gentleman either.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don't know what's
going on, I wish everyone would just stop asking me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Come on. You two
are the dynamic duo. Half of the community school program revolves
around you. That makes you the authority on Paul O'Conner. I don't
like it, but that's how it is.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well, they can stop
asking me. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What about his
wife?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Somebody saw her
hanging around the studios tonight. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Maybe I should talk
to her.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Go ahead. I'm going
to bed.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yeah, it's late. Go
ahead.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Aren't you coming?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll be there
later, I'm going for a walk. I need to think. Besides, I'm not sure
you want me there.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section8">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
decide, I'm tired. Good night.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(LENA leaves the
room but is still in the door when BRICK speaks, LENA pauses.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lena?
We had something good. I don't want to lose it. Okay?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Okay.
Good night.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(She exits to
bedroom. BRICK watches her leave.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Lights fade to
dark.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(End Scene 3)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Scene 4</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(TIME:
Next day, mid-morning..)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(AT RISE: LENA is
alone. Listening to '70s music on the stereo. She is trying to dust,
but is preoccupied. When a particular song comes on,(enough bars that
we can recognize it later) she abruptly turns off the stereo. The
phone rings, startling her.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hello?
. . . Who's there?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Listens, says
nothing, then gently puts the phone down. She continues her motions.
The doorbell rings, she is startled even more and answers it.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
glad you're home.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Warily.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh,
. . .Sylvia. Come in.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Entering, she is
brisk, cold)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where
is he?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Who?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know. Is he here?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
mean Paul? Why would he be here?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
not stupid. He loves you, he has for years. That's why he left me. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
not what he . . . well, he said. . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Of
course, we're friends. We talk . . .sometimes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">About
art, I suppose.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Art
and . . . other things.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
can imagine. Tell me, why should he talk to you and not me? </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why
don't you ask him?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Firmly)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Because
no one has seen him lately. He hasn't spoken to me or our friends.
That leaves you. Are you going with him?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section9">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Going
where?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Wherever
runaway husbands and their bimbos run away to.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
no one's "bimbo". I'm not going anywhere, with Paul or
anyone, and I haven't seen him. I have a husband, and a life. Paul
would have to be crazy to come here.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Exactly,
so did he? Where is he?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
told you I don't know. He didn't teach last night.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
know, I was waiting outside. He can't hide forever. And you can't
hide what you're up to.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's
nothing to hide.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Didn't
yesterday teach you anything?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yesterday?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
car?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
do you know about that?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Everybody
knows. You can't hide anything in a small town, certainly not a
burning sports car. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Would
Paul really burn that car? Maybe someone else did. Who?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
right, Paul loves that car more than anything, maybe even more than
he thinks he loves you. If someone wanted to hurt him that would do
it. Or maybe dear Paul just wanted to make a statement. He likes
romantic statements. Buying that car was one. Pathetic isn't it?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did
you do it? Burn his car?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Me?
Of course not. Or did I? I'm not really sure anymore. You see, my
whole world has crashed around me. There are blank spots. Worse are
the looks everyone gives me. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sylvia,
I . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't want to hear anymore. I thought once you were a friend. I've
got no one now.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Have
you talked to your counselor? I know another one that . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Counselors!
They think Paul is so reasonable and intelligent. They think it's all
my fault. I can see it in their eyes. Well, I'm not the one that's
crazy. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
didn't say . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Crossing to outside
door.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
not crazy. And you two are not going to wreck my life.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
not . . </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SYLVIA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
are both going to suffer as much as I have. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(SYLVIA exits. LENA
watches out the window. PAUL enters quietly from kitchen, looks at
her for a moment then speaks.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section10">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's quite a mess
out there. I suppose Brick's pissed.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Paul!</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2.5in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What did my
soon-to-be-ex want?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What do you expect?
She's looking for you. Everyone else is too.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Everyone but you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Resigned)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I knew you'd be
back.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Pretty pitiful,
huh?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't be so hard on
yourself.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm sure Brick
would argue with you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What were you
trying to prove with the car?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I thought you did
it.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You thought I would
burn your car in my front yard?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I didn't say it
made sense. Nothing else has.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Are you saying you
didn't do it?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section11">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I just heard about
it. I've been gone since Sunday. Since just after you told me it was
over. Everything pretty much went to hell from there.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why? You knew it
was impossible from the start. It was time to end it. It's better
for both of us. Don't you know that? </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's the way I am,
the last of the romantics, remember?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why couldn't you
just let it go?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I told you I would
love you forever.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But you've lost
everything.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nothing that hurts
as much as losing you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But your family,
your job . . . your car.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I tell you I'm not
responsible for the car.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh right!</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I wish I were. I
really felt like making some big dramatic statement. But that? I
couldn't draw attention to you that way, destroy any last hope for
an "us".</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There is no hope.
There never was.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There has to be.
It's all I have left.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I didn't tell you
to leave Sylvia, your family.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section12">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No, she told me to.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You saw a
counselor, why couldn't you just take her advice?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How do you know she
didn't advise me to leave?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did she?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Counselors don't
give advice. She wanted to me to decide what was best for me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Like torching the
car?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Do you think I
could do any of this? Hurt you like this?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I hurt you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I still love you.
It's all I have.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I don't think I
know you anymore.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We used to read
each other's minds.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I can't anymore.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Can't or won't?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I won't let myself.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section13">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You were my best
friend.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
can't be there for you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Friends
give friends the benefit of the doubt.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
can't.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Pause, 2 beats)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Call
it quits with him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We've
been all through this.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How
can you stay with someone who doesn't respect what you do? I
couldn't. I didn't.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
can't just give up everything. I did that once, I promised I'd never
do it again.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
uses people, he hurts people.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
loves me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
doesn't love you, he owns you. You're his trophy, but he doesn't even
notice you. Like that deer. He killed it, hung it's head on the wall,
but someone else has to keep it clean.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
love him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
fear him. He reminds you of your father, and he treats you the same
way. What does he give you?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Everything.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Respect?
Understanding? Appreciation? You went to that faculty party last
week.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section14">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did he dance with
you?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did he take your
arm and tell you how beautiful you were?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">. . . No.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He spent the entire
time with the coaching staff didn't he?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's his job.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Was he proud of
you? Did he even look at you?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's difficult for
him.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How difficult is it
to like someone you love?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Were you that way
with Sylvia?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I used to be. Until
. . . .</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Until me? </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I was going to say
until I realized she never had believed in me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section15">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But I wanted that
kind of attention.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We all do. You have
a right to be treated that way. You deserve it.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's not always
that easy.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It should be.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's easy for you,
not for everyone. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As easy as ending
us?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It wasn't easy. .
.I still can't believe you care so much.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Believe.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where did you go
Sunday . . . after?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I was going to
leave, the car wouldn’t start. That's the last time I saw it.
Honest.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What did you do?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Caught a ride west,
kept going. Looked for trouble.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Trouble?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I was eating
breakfast somewhere. I felt watched. Some tough looking kids were
eyeing me. I figured they were waiting to follow me outside so they
could rob me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section16">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What happened?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I finished eating.
I didn't look at them again, didn't particularly ignore them either,
just didn't care.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Then?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I paid and left.
Waited on a corner. They followed me. A patrol car passed, they
left. I wished they hadn't. I felt like hitting someone, anyone. I
didn't even care about myself. . . I even thought about suicide.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's so stupid.
Think about Megan.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What about her?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How would she feel
if anything happened to you?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">She has her mom. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're her father.
That's very special.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I had you, that was
very special.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You never had me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Points to heart)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Here I had you,
from the first time I saw you, the first time I kissed you, held
you. There was "us".</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I had to get
involved with an artist. You "feel" too much, "see"
too much. I never promised you anything.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section17">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No,
you didn't. All the promises were mine. You were very careful that
way. The look in your eyes was all the promise I needed.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Thoughtfully)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
was just a few weeks, how could it mean so much?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">All
my life I've wanted someone to be everything you were to me, and
there you were.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
sorry. I can't be that person.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
not something you have to do. You already are, to me. We were like
two halves of the same being. You said it yourself.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
was wrong.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
must have been.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(The doorbell rings,
LENA looks out the window.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
Chief Gray, you'd better hide.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just
do it for me, okay?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(PAUL looks at her
for a beat, then exits through kitchen door. LENA composes herself
and opens the outside door.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hello,
Chief Gray. Is something wrong?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
I just wanted you to know that we're all through with the car. Brick
can have it towed off. Or, Paul O'Connor can have it back if he still
wants it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section18">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Has
he . . . has anyone seen him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
yet. He'll turn up though. There's probably a simple explanation to
all this, there usually is. You'd better hope Brick doesn't see him
first. He was really upset. That temper of his is sure something. I
don't have to tell you though, do I?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
remember the time we played Haley in the district play-offs, he and
Elmer Winter got drunk and . . .well, I'd better not go any further.
Lodge secrets, you know.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
suppose so.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHIEF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Pass
the word to him about the car, and let us know if you need anything
else.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
will. Come back soon.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(CHIEF exits)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Re-entering)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't think he would ever get re-elected if he wasn't related to
everyone in town.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
thought you were gone.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
had to stay and see how the dragnet was going.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How
long can you hide?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
not hiding, in fact as soon as I leave here I'll visit Chief Gray and
let him know I'm still around.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section19">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You won't tell him
about . . .</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Us? . .What if I
threatened to, blackmailed you?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Would you do that?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No, that's not how
I want you. I don't want to destroy whatever chance there may ever
be.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And if there is no
chance?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I have to believe
there is.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So what will you
say?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I just went through
a divorce. I'm middle aged crazy, that's all the excuse I need. Will
you be all right? I worry about you, you know.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's hard to
believe, that you would still think about me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Think about you?
How about every time I see a car like yours. Every road we ever
drove on reminds me of you, and that's every road around here. Every
place we ever talked about going, every thing we ever wanted to do.
Every Barry Manilow song, every love song. Christ, every minute of
every day I think about you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But you can't.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I can, and I do.
And I know you still care about me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section20">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You won't let
yourself, but you do.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You never stop
hoping, do you?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Never.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Fondly)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're a loon.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And alone. I'll see
myself out.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He starts toward
kitchen door.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Wait. . .will you
ever tell about . . us?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You said there
wasn't an "us". . . Don't worry, nobody needs to know. I'm
still your friend.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I told you a lot of
things I never told anyone, not even Brick.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I won't tell. But I
think that should indicate something.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If you did tell I
would be ruined.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't worry,
there's enough talk around. I'll let you know what happens.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He exits. Is gone
before LENA speaks.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Goodbye.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(She seems to want
to say more, but there is a knock on the front door. LENA crosses to
open it. Before she can get there, CHERYL opens it and sticks her
head in.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh . . . hi,
Cheryl.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section21">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I heard voices, you
talking to yourself?</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
It was . . the radio . . one of those talk shows. I turned it off.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Looking around
suspiciously)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
thought you only listened to music. Oldies and such.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
was nothing else on. Did you need something?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No,
just came by to see how you were. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Everything's
okay.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Heard
from Paul?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Pause)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
Should I?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
tell me, you have his "fried banana". You know, the car.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sylvia
came by.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sylvia
came here? What did she want? </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Same
as everyone else, I guess. She was looking for Paul.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
did you tell her?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
was nothing to tell. She wouldn't believe me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section22">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I heard she make a
scene at the school last week.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">She just doesn't
give up, does she?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The breakup was
pretty sudden.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I wonder, the last
straw, was it another woman, you think?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Paul wouldn't . .
.never told me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">They seem so
different. I never understood how they got together. Maybe now Paul
can find someone more on his wavelength.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Maybe.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's not bad
looking, and intelligent. A good catch for the right woman.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I suppose.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How's Brick taking
all this?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's still pretty
upset.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Who can blame him?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Whose side are you
on?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section23">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well, yours of
course, it's just that he's your husband, so naturally he's jealous.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's nothing to
be jealous of.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Really? Sorry,
Lena, but it just doesn't look that way. Everyone is talking about
what happened yesterday. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's nobody else's
business.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's a small town,
everybody makes it their business. It's your fault everyone is
talking.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My fault?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sure. You won't
talk about it, not even to me. When there's a mystery everyone makes
up their own story to fit the facts. They even make up their own
facts.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's nothing I
can do about that.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You can tell me
what's happening. I'm your best friend. Trust me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Can I? I wonder.
Anyway, I can't talk about it, even if I wanted to. I promised.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Promised? Your
marriage is going down the tubes. I thought maybe you wanted to save
it. </span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It'll be all right.
It has to be.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's no reason
for me to stick around then. Call me when you need something!</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Cheryl, I'm sorry!</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(CHERYL exits)</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section24">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Damn! Am I driving
everyone away? </span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(LENA sits, sadly.
There is a pause, then a single knock at the door. It opens slowly.
CHERYL looks in.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
sorry, Lena. That was childish of me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
not your fault.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
bothered me to know that we kept secrets from each other.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
all secrets are ours to share.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
know. I forgot for a moment. Forgive me"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's
nothing to forgive.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(The phone rings)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hello?
. . . Oh, hi Chief Gray. . . He did? . . . What did he say about it?
. . .Well I'm glad you found him. . . Sylvia? You’re kidding. Are
you sure? . . . Why would she? . . . That's terrible. . . Okay,
thanks for calling, I'll tell Brick. Bye. . . .I will, thanks again.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(She hangs up, turns
to CHERYL)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That
was the Chief.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
happened, did Brick . . ?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No,
it's Paul, they found him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where
was he? Why did he . . </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Apparently
he walked into the station and asked for the chief. He had decided to
go away for a while and left the car. He just got back, didn't know
anything about it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
was that about Sylvia?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section25">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's the weird
part. She confessed to Paul and the Chief. She was following him,
saw him leave the car. She had sabotaged it. She brought it here and
burned it to hurt Paul.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">In your yard?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I was the last one
he talked to before he left. She saw him here. She was mad at
everyone, I guess.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I know Ruth,
Sylvia's sister. I'll call her. Sylvia probably needs someone now.
Did they arrest her?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not yet. Maybe
Brick won't press charges.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Maybe not. I'll go
make that call. Will you be all right?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yeah, sure, go
ahead. See you later?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHERYL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Of course. Still
friends?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sure.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(CHERYL exits, LENA
moves to look out window.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Paul,
Sylvia, all of us. Isn't there any way everyone can be happy?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Lights dim
momentarily, rise to fantasy mode, BRICK comes in through front
door.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm home.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Moves to him, hugs
him, acts loving and attentive)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
good to see you honey, you look tired, sit down. How was your day?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">About the same. The
Patton boy looks like a good bet for the hundred.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section26">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's wonderful!
Are you hungry? Dinner's ready.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Starved. Did you
get the mail?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No. Why don't you
get it while I set the table?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Okay.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He exits, LENA
moves back to the window, looks out in same position as before,
lights dim then come back up, still in fantasy mode. PAUL enters
from front door with flowers, she turns to him, they kiss. Their
song is playing, the same one she turned off earlier. They dance a
bit, the song ends. She seems young and in love.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's wonderful to
see you, I missed you.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Silly, you just saw
me.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It doesn't matter,
it was too long. Do you know you are beautiful?</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I think you are
prejudiced.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I mean it, you're
incredible.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Laughing)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And you're a loon.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(A new song begins,
she moves easily into his arms. They dance across the floor towards
the kitchen.)</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've been thinking.
We could add some more classes at the studio. And we should have a
showing together.</span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div dir="LTR" id="Section27">
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; page-break-before: always; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Mmmm.
. . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(They dance out the
kitchen door, with very little pause, BRICK and LENA dance back in
through the same door. She is radiant.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
love your hair. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
hoped you would. I wanted something different.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
looks wonderful. Especially tonight of all nights. Happy Anniversary.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
remembered!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How
could I forget the most incredible day of my life.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"To
love and cherish."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BRICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Every
day.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 1in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(They dance a bit in
silence.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
almost forgot the champagne, it’s in the car. We're celebrating.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(He exits, LENA
moves to the window to watch him. Lights dim, return to normal. The
front door opens slowly, PAUL enters again. LENA turns to him, they
stand a bit apart.)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
just wanted to tell you I'm leaving.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
do you mean?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
got another job . . .teaching . . . in the city. I'll get an
apartment.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
about your family?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
not so far, I'll have Megan sometimes, maybe all the time if Sylvia
will let me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
sorry all this happened.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
be, I'm not. Well, maybe some of it. At least now I'll be out of your
life.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
hope it all works out for you. You deserve it. What's the school
like?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Alpine
Arts School. Really nice studio, big budget.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sounds
wonderful, I'm happy for you. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'd
rather you were happy with me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You'll
see. Before you know it I'll be a pleasant memory. Think of all the
young artists you can romance.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="sdendnote-western">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 2in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
think so?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
hope so, for your sake.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">PAUL</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
always love you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">LENA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Blackout)</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; text-indent: 2in; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">End of Play</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 2; widows: 2;">
<br /></div>
lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-51602692244742871052014-07-27T16:49:00.001-07:002014-07-27T16:49:59.290-07:00Spinner<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAf5hd6eC4JgY1etl0ZfURUeOtgcloBDcpUcLKWPUgv0wcxapX-d3YtHIe_UlkcxHtKq5C7o_Z9BJebeipiWR-tcKVGtTbvVnkaUfCd6AlXPP5FJznuY02eknWcpSrXooI-e6t0GXgihW_/s1600/Spinner.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAf5hd6eC4JgY1etl0ZfURUeOtgcloBDcpUcLKWPUgv0wcxapX-d3YtHIe_UlkcxHtKq5C7o_Z9BJebeipiWR-tcKVGtTbvVnkaUfCd6AlXPP5FJznuY02eknWcpSrXooI-e6t0GXgihW_/s1600/Spinner.JPG" height="179" width="200" /></a></div>
<style type="text/css">P { margin-bottom: 0.08in; }</style>
<br />
<div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; orphans: 0; widows: 0;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b> <span style="font-size: large;">SPINNER</span></b></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">
</span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A
Drama in One Act</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> by
William C. Seward</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="CENTER" style="margin-top: 0.17in; orphans: 2; page-break-after: avoid; widows: 2;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Performance
Rights</b></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
is an infringement of federal copyright law to copy or reproduce this
script in any manner or to perform this play without royalty payment.
The author controls all rights. Contact for additional scripts and
further licensing information. The author’s name must appear on all
programs and promotional material.</span></div>
<div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">William Seward : lastromantic49@yahoo.com </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">
</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">December
2, 1998</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Copyright
© 1997 by Bill Seward</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CHARACTERS:</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">RICK
DINSMORE: 40's. Grandson.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">MARGOT: Rick's
wife.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">D.W.
DINSMORE: The Grandfather. About 80.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">CLARA
DINSMORE: Grandmother. A bit younger.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">GRADY
DINSMORE: Father. 60.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">NELDA
TARVER: Waitress. 20-30</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BROTHER
SNYDER Local Minister</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SPUD
BROWN Town character.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">JEFF
LAYTON Local farmer</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">BUS
DRIVER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Time:</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">1970's,
Saturday morning, early spring.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Scene:</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Small
town cafe. Rural setting. A few tables, counter w/ stools. Counter
with exit to kitchen behind it. Front entrance visible. Decor is
early dinette set. Some patrons enter w/ mail, etc. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<br /><span style="font-size: large;"></span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Act
I</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> Scene
1</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(SETTING: Early
morning cafe. Dishes rattling, coffee brewing.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(AT RISE: SPUD and
SNYDER are finishing a game of dominos. NELDA is bustling back and
forth from kitchen to counter to tables.) </i></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(slaps
last domino down, jubilant)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Domino!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Domino,
domino, the pope plays dominoes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Very
funny, what have you got?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Thirty-five.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(SNYDER marks his
score, SPUD shuffles dominoes as NELDA approaches and refills their
cups. This is daily routine for all. The game continues throughout
the play, their remarks usually barely audible. SNYDER wins mostly.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(placing
double five)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've
got the spinner. That's ten.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
sure preachers don't cheat?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
have to. God's on our side.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">More
donuts?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
yet.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
take some of that pie, Nelda.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Giving
in to temptation, Preacher?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
consider Frances' coconut pie a religious experience.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
guess you would know.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(CLARA and D.W.
enter from street. They are carrying mail. They have been married a
long time. As the following dialogue continues, they cross to their
regular table and sit. CLARA is somewhat dressed up, not quite Sunday
best, but nicer than a house dress. D.W. is in work khakis, but clean
ones. He wears a comfortable old hat or feed store cap.)</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Good
morning Brother Snyder.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">'Morning
Sister Clara . . . D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Brother
Snyder . . . Spud.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Plowing
done, D.W.?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick's
gonna finish today.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
really work that boy, D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
enjoys it, Brother Snyder. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
wouldn't let us sell the place, said it should stay in the family.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But
working in the city all week, and the farm all weekend. . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Evenings
too, sometimes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
just can't sleep for worrying about him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
says it's a break for him, clears his mind after being in the office
all day.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
many people work for relaxation. Most fish or take up golf.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Golf?
I'd rather be bored. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
would you know about it Spud? You don't even remember the last time
you worked.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sure
do. It was 1953, before my medical problems.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Medical
problems? You were just born tired and never got rested! Been
fishing, D.W.? </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Too
windy. Never have much luck when the wind's blowing. You and Sister
Snyder coming for forty-two on Tuesday?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We
wouldn't miss it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Spud?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
pass D.W., thanks.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(NELDA comes to the
Dinsmore's table with coffee pot and cups (with saucers). CLARA is
cool toward her, D.W. warm.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Coffee,
folks?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Two.
</span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(NELDA
pours and crosses to get cream etc.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
just do not know why Frances keeps her on.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nelda's
okay.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Sarcastically)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
men think so, anyway.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(NELDA approaches.
Places cream and sugar near CLARA. CLARA pours hers into saucer and
blows on it to cool it, then drinks from the saucer. RICK and MARGOT
enter from street. They approach the Dinsmore's table. They speak to
all except CLARA and D.W. )</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Morning
Brother Snyder. Hi Spud.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Morning.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick
. . . Margot.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(from
off)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Coffee,
Rick?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(looks
at MARGOT)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Honey?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(MARGOT
nods)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(to
NELDA)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Two,
with donuts.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(opening
letter)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We
won some free luggage, and a diamond watch.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
did that one last year, remember? They wanted you to buy that land at
Lakeshores.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Lakeshores!!
I remember when it was called Griddle. Nothing but sun and rocks.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But
if it's free. . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
still can't afford it grandma. Remember when you spent a hundred
dollars getting that free television?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That
was for shipping charges.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
didn't even work.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
silverware that time was nice.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(with
coffee and donuts)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
how Frances furnished this place. Free silverware and lots of trading
stamps. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(D.W.
and RICK laugh, women ignore her.) </i></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
the truth!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(opening
another letter)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That T.V. Guide subscription of yours is almost up.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Better
renew it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(comes
just inside street door)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick,
come look at this. Oh, morning D.W. . . . Miz Dinsmore. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Morning
Jeff. What's going on?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just
something Rick wanted to see.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
just be a minute.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(RICK
exits to street.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
wonder what's so important.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh,
you know Jeff, he probably got a new set of tires or something. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(points
to another letter.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
that one?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't know. It's postmarked Tucson. Who do we know in Tucson?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Can't
think of anyone. Open it, maybe we won something else. . . lake front
property in Death Valley or something.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
something, you know that, just something.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(opens
letter)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">This
is from Grady!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
he doing in Tucson?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't know, let me . . . I just can't read it, here Margot, can you
make it out?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
says "Just dropping a line to let you know I'm on my way home.
I'm catching the bus, should be there Saturday, the 14th."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why,
that's nice. It's been so long since we've seen him . . .wait . . .
the 14th . . . that's today. D.W., Grady's coming home today!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Our
boy's coming home? Now? </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
that, D.W.?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Our
son, Brother Snyder, remember Grady? He's coming home.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
been a long time since old Grady's been here. He didn't even come
back for his class reunion. 'Course, nobody else did neither.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick's
always missed his father so. Oh, just wait till he hears. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1in; margin-right: 1.5in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Courier New, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">(entering
from street with JEFF. JEFF goes to sit near SNYDER and SPUD)</span></span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Wait
till who hears what?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Honey,
it's your father, Grady, he's coming home.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Clara
just opened the letter, he's on today's bus. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(louder,
to NELDA)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nelda,
put out the flag, the bus is bringing Grady home!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It'll
stop, Mr. Dinsmore, if someone's getting off.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
coming here? What does he want?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Surprised)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
your father, Rick. He's coming home to see you, and us.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
must be another reason. There's always something else.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
no way to talk about Grady. He brought you into this world.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And
then he split.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick.
. . </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Dismissing)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">If
you say so.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Louder)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nelda!
Did you put that flag out?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">She
said that it would stop anyway, Mom.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh,
she doesn't know. What if it doesn't.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Grady's
not going to stay on it all the way to San Antonio.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
could be asleep, or reading.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(to
MARGOT)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Or
not even on the bus.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nelda,
the flag!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i> (NELDA
has been nearby listening, now she starts to protest again, but after
a look from RICK she goes and gets the flag, taking it outside.
Returning immediately without it.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"> CLARA</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">When
does that bus get here?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Checking
clock.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It'll
be about an hour, I think.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So
soon?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Now
don't get into a state Clara.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But
there is so much to do. I have to put dinner on, air out his room.
Should I get my hair done? You need a haircut.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't think. . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No,
no time for that. Take me home. I'll get a cake started.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i> (She
gathers the mail, her things. Starts to the street door, D.W.
following.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Later
D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Mom,
wait. . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i> (CLARA
and D.W. exit. At about the same time, NELDA exits to kitchen.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick,
what's wrong?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
always like this. They drop everything the minute they hear from
Grady.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
is their son.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And
me, what am I.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">His
son.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
not my father, not really. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
know how you feel, you've told me often enough. And you're right.
But, whether or not you accept him as your father, he's still their
son.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've
been their son for forty years. Twice as long as he was around. I've
farmed the place since I could sit on the tractor and I work at the
plant so we can afford to farm. He's done nothing, he's contributed
nothing, he's meant nothing. He only comes through every ten years or
so and stirs everything up.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
might be something else.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
know, I said there was.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
forty years old, how old is your dad?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
call him that!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How
old?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sixty,
I guess.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
getting older now.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Realizing.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh, Jesus. You're right. He is coming back.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
retiring.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
waltzing right back and taking over.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
their son.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">GODDAMMIT!
</span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(All
are startled)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">SHHHH!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
gonna be out on my ear.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
don't know that.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I've
worked the place for forty years. I'm supposed to be a partner. It's
all supposed to be mine someday.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't think they would . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Of
course they would, they will. You said it yourself, "He's their
son." I'm not, I never have been. I could have left too. Old man
Jackson offered me that job in San Antonio. I thought I owed it to
them to stay.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
always said your roots were here.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sometimes
roots don't go as deep as you think. I need to talk to Nelda.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Suspicious)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Her,
why?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
tell you later.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(He
exits to kitchen, MARGOT sits back down and picks at her donut. She
is preoccupied, but can't avoid paying attention to the domino game
which is still proceeding.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Jeff,
you want to play for me? I need to see a man about a dog.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sure,
if you want me to.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Couldn't
do any worse.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Keep
your eye on the preacher, I think he's changing the spots.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Gives
JEFF his dominos and crosses toward street door, pauses, turns back
to SNYDER.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Genesis,
chapter 31, verse 49; "The Lord watch between me and thee, when
we are absent one from another."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i> (Exits
through street door. Pause in conversation as play continues a couple
of downs (turns).)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know Brother Snyder, I don't understand something.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
that Jeff?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
are other folks around, why does the preacher spend time with the
atheist?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
first, he's not an atheist. Spud's more of an agnostic. Second, he
knows more bible than anyone else around here.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Downs
last domino)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Domino.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
I'll be! Here, you get forty off me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Done.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(SNYDER
shuffles dominos)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Doesn't
the bible say that the devil can quote scripture too?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
right Jeff, glad you paid attention. Thing is though . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(SPUD
enters)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER
<i>(Cont'd)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">. .
the devil doesn't play dominos.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
pope does though.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Jeff
won one for you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Beginner's
luck. You must have let him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Quoting)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"It
is impossible for a man to be cheated by any one but himself . . ."</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Finishes
quote)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"As
for a thing to be and not to be at the same time." Emerson.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(SPUD
sits in his chair, JEFF returns to his own. Play resumes.)</i></span></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> (RICK
enters from kitchen.)</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Catty)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did
you have a nice little chat?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">We
need to go.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No!
I'm not leaving until you tell me what is going on.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nothing
is going on.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Sure!
And you're not sneaking off behind my back to see that bimbo.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">She's
not a bimbo. And no one is sneaking anywhere.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But
you can't tell me what you talk about.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why
can't you just trust me?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
trust you as far as I can throw you. You are not going to leave me,
for anyone. If anyone leaves it's going to be me!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
leaving got to do with it? Are you tired of me?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
not the one sneaking around with miss perky!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No
one is sneaking around with anyone. We've had this discussion too
many times and this is not the place for it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Indicating
players.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">They
don't care. Afraid you're sweetie will hear? Let's call her out here.
</span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
I'm going home.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Starts
toward street door)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
you dare walk away from me! You always walk away!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Follows
RICK)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Come
back here!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(They
Exit.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Lays
down double-five)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Spinner.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(SPUD
and JEFF look at each other.)</i></span></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> (Blackout)</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">END
SCENE 1</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SCENE
2</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i> (SETTING:
Same as before, one hour later.)</i></span></div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i>
</div>
<i><span style="font-size: large;">
</span></i><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> (AT
RISE: SPUD and SNYDER still playing dominoes. NELDA is seated nearby,
taking a break. No one else on stage.)</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(On
playing)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Fifteen.
</span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Continuing
a discussion)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So
you maintain that it was a selfish act.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
else could it be? The writer says that it was not the season for
fruit. There was none on the tree, so he killed it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But
he was proving a point.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">By
killing a living thing? Was that a "Christlike" thing to
do? Is that why we kill a living tree to continue a "pagan"
celebration and call it "his" birthday?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
make him sound like a spoiled child.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Like
father, like son.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
think Jeff was right.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
a revelation. What about?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Doesn't
matter. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(RICK
enters from street entrance, sees NELDA and approaches.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
are we going to do?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why
do we have to do anything?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
right. You don't have to. But I do.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">But
you'll lose everything.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
looks like I already have.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Don't
be so sure.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(D.W.
and CLARA enter from the street, MARGOT right behind them. D.W.
carries a newspaper. Women eye NELDA suspiciously, she moves away to
kitchen. CLARA has put on a newer dress for the occasion. D.W. only
changed to his best hat. MARGOT still looks as she did. D.W. and
CLARA move back to their table, MARGOT crosses to RICK.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Has
the bus come yet?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Not
yet. Soon, I'm sure. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(CLARA
digs through her purse for her makeup, D.W. looks at the newspaper.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(A
bit catty.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Did
we interrupt you?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Absently)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No.
It's all right.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
thought we settled this. What did you have to tell her that you
couldn't tell me?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just
a problem she wanted me to help her with.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
can imagine.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No,
I don't think you can.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh,
I can imagine a lot.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
it doesn't matter now.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It
matters if you and that . . .that person are cooking something up.
Don't forget who you are married to.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
don't understand.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Try
me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i> (They
continue their discussion, but quietly.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Quoting)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">Therefore
said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given
unto him of my Father.” John six sixty-five.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Is
man only a blunder of God, or God only a blunder of man?"
Nietzsche.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Plays
last domino)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Domino.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
can't win to save my soul!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
just my point.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Finishing
makeup)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
wish that girl would leave Rick alone!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(still
looking at paper)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Who,
Margot?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know who I'm talking about. She's twisted all you men around her
finger since Frances hired her. And I'll never understand why she
did.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know why. Frances was always saying she wanted to retire and let
someone else run things.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
why her of all people.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">No
one else wanted the job. She's bright, she works hard.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Ignoring
that)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">And
above all, why move here? Nobody knows who she is, who her parents
were. Two years ago she only had the clothes on her back. Now
everyone treats her like the Queen of Sheba.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Everybody
has to be somewhere. Why do you suppose Grady's coming back?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You're
as bad as Rick. Our son's been away a long time. It's time he came
home.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
wonder if he's in some kind of trouble.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well,
if he is, he needs to be with his family. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
about Rick?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He'll
be all right. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't know. I think there's trouble between him and Margot.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He'll
get his head on straight. Maybe when Grady gets here. . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Maybe.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
fatted calf was killed for the prodigal son, how did that benefit the
good son?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Many
people have had trouble with that. The lesson was about compassion,
not justice.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Let's
save some compassion for those that deserve it. The prodigal doesn't
always . . .return.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(GRADY
enters from street door, carrying bags, just before SPUD says
“return”.)</span></i></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
don't believe anyone has moved an inch since I left here. Mom . .
.Dad?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Grady!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Domino!!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Great
to have you back son!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh
Grady, you look thinner.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just
older, Mom.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Your
room is just as you left it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know, you haven't aged a day Mom. As pretty as ever.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Touching
hair)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Get
on with you. Will . . . will you be staying long?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Just
as long as you'll have me. I've decided this is where I want to be.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My
prayers are answered!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
wonderful son, you know we could use the help around the farm.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why,
yes. It's too much for Rick to handle alone. Oh! Rick . . . what are
you doing over there? Speak to your father.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
Rick? You've become a fine looking man, son.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Uncomfortably)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Good
to see you, sir. I guess you'll be staying then.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
about the size of it.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There's
someone else here you should say hi to.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
know. This must be Margot. Mom sent me pictures of the two of you.
She's even prettier than her picture.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Please
to meet you, Mr. Dinsmore.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes,
but I was speaking of someone else. Nelda. . . </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Approaching)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Yes
Grady, it's Nelda.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Nelda!
My god, I haven't seen you in years.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What
do you mean, Grady? Do you know this girl?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Of
course, Mom. Why didn't you tell me she was here?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I .
. . . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">They
don't know about me, I only told Rick.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
never . . . Well, Mom. Let me introduce you to your granddaughter,
Nelda.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">My
granddaughter? What do you mean? </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Her
mother and I were together for a while in Santa Fe. I didn't tell you
because it didn't work out.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Rick,
she's your sister?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Half
sister, but . . . yes.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He's
been wonderful, the brother I've always wanted. I'm very lucky to
have found him.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> BUS
DRIVER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Entering
from street.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Hey,
buddy. You gonna get your other bags?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> RICK</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'll
get them.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(He
exits)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> BUS
DRIVER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where's
my new passenger?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">There
isn't one, we just wanted to make sure you'd stop.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> BUS
DRIVER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Course
I'd stop with an incoming. Hadn't oughter put out the flag without a
passenger. Against regulations. Coulda made me late.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(He
exits)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">So
you never told them?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> NELDA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Mother
told me where you came from, I wanted to find you, see what you were
like. We hadn't heard from you in ten years, so I came here. I
couldn't tell anyone but Rick. I didn't know if they would accept me.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's
ridiculous. You're kin.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Grady.
. . Nelda. . .</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Entering
from street)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Mr.
Dinsmore, Rick said to give you this. </span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(Hands
something to GRADY)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">What's
this?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
tractor key.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; page-break-before: always;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> JEFF</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">He
gave it to me as he got on the bus.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">The
bus?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Oh
no! . . .Rick!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> D.W.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Why
would he do a fool thing like that?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> MARGOT</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Where's
he going? How can he leave like that?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(They
look at each other, speechless.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Domino!!</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SPUD</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">You
know, I'm getting tired of losing this game to you.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> SNYDER</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">How
about a game of checkers?</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; margin-right: 1in; text-indent: -1in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> <i>(CLARA
goes into GRADY's arms, he holds her awkwardly.)</i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> CLARA</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">It's
good to have you home, Rick.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> GRADY</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm
Grady, Ma.</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(Blackout)</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"> End
of Play</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">-------------- </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>This play was first produced October, 1998 at Sam Bass Community Theater in Round Rock, Texas as First Place winner in their first One-Act Play Contest and Director Workshop.</i> </span></div>
lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-70916849530151387662014-03-25T11:40:00.000-07:002014-03-25T11:41:06.137-07:00Find The Lady!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Find
The Lady</b></span></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">By</span></span></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">William
Seward</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Chapter
1</b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Parson
Short stepped into Carol's Cafe. Not a place known as a den of
intrigue, at least lately. He missed the old batwing doors but the
air conditioning was a good trade on a hot Texas afternoon. He
carried the backpack over to one of the tables, removed the laptop
and turned it on so it could be connecting while he ordered his java.
</span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">At
the counter he asked for his regular black coffee, no fancy stuff. A
sweet roll caught his eye. Carol's sweet rolls were sinfully good;
large, gooey sweet, and came heated with a generous dollop of real
butter. Behind the counter Jean rolled her eyes when he asked for
one. She’d gotten to know him too well. He took his coffee and
returned to his table to finish setting things up. With the slump in
private eye business lately Short had stopped paying for internet at
his little one man office. If things didn't look up soon, he'd have
to let that office go as well. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Working
at the cafe was better anyway. He was well known here. He could camp
out at one of the tables for a half a day and use the wifi, read or
people-watch. Today his plan was to run updates on his cell phone. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">His
old cell phone was three upgrades behind, but it did all he usually
needed. It wasn't like anyone was calling him these days. Oddly
enough they were still issuing updates for the software, even though
the techs expressed amazement that it still worked. His sweet roll
came while he was getting the process started. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
internet signal was slow today. Short read his email and
unobtrusively watched the other customers as he enjoyed his roll and
coffee. Sometimes a job lead would come his way if he kept his ears
open. There was nothing today, though. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He
was distracted when he saw an attractive young woman enter carrying a
small box in her hands. He watched as she stood at the counter and
looked over the menu. Before she made up her mind a pair of sheriff's
deputies entered the cafe and walked toward a corner table. The girl
abruptly turned and exited. Jean shrugged and turned to carry the
coffee pot and mugs to the two deputies.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
realized that he still had a fourth of his sweet roll left but his
coffee was gone. He waved Jean over with the pot. As Jean filled his
cup she suddenly said, “Oh damn!” put down the pot and darted to
the door. She quickly returned and said “too late!” She indicated
the small box on the counter. “She not only didn't order, she left
that behind.” Short got up and looked the package over, it was
taped shut and had no markings on the outside.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Do
you know her?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Don’t
know her name. She comes in sometimes. I think she works in an
office, she usually orders a tray of coffees and several scones.”
Jean looked around the counter then checked a paper spike. “She
brought a list yesterday, here it is.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
took the slip of paper. It was a pale blue note, torn from a pad.
Part of a letterhead was on the top of the page. It said Otheros
United.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jean,
this is what we call a major clue! Otheros is just outside of town. I
was just thinking of going there to see my ex. Want me to drop it
off?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">That
would be great, Parson.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
handed her his card in case the girl returned. He packed up his
laptop and cell phone, nodded at the deputies in the corner and left
the shop. The small package was nestled in his coat pocket. There had
been no serious prospects for income in his email, and above all,
nothing from Amy. However, things were looking up. He had an excuse
to see her at Otheros and maybe score a finder’s fee in the
process.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As
Short drove his '71 Olds Cutlass on the road north of town his phone
rang. A glance at the screen told him it was Tupper Rountree, an old
client. Short picked up the phone. Tupper said, "Hi, Short. I
got a message that you called me." </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
did, a couple of days ago. I was wondering if you could pay me that
hundred that you owe me!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
wish I could, buddy, but I just don't have it right now."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
became aware of an intermittent buzzing noise coming from the package
in his pocket. He took it out and laid it on the seat. He hoped it
wasn't going to explode as he replied to Tupper. "Call me buddy
after you've brought your tab up to date."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
have a check coming in next week, I'll pay you then!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I'm
counting on it, Tupper."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He
hung up. There it went again, the package, buzzzz, buzz. Maybe it was
the kids cell phone. But why wrap it up? Should he open it? As he
pondered this, Short pulled into the parking lot of Otheros United.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
</div>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Chapter
2</b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
company consisted of a cluster of buildings inside of twenty acres of
chain-link fence. The administrative office was at the front with an
open parking lot, access to the other buildings was through guarded
entrances.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
walked through the entrance. A burly guard near the door glanced at
him and looked away. Short had a moment of worry. Amy had started
work here since the divorce and he hadn’t visited. Of course there
was that whole restraining order thing, but that was all a mistake.
Still, it was sort of a letdown that no one recognized him.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
receptionist looked up from her desk. She managed to give the
impression she was looking down at him at the same time. “May I
help you?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
here to see….”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Before
he could finish a young man walked in from the hallway and laid
several file folders on her desk. He passed an appraising look over
Short and asked. “Are you the private detective; Mr. …..?</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
was surprised by the question. He almost forgot to answer. “Umm,
yeah. Short, Parson Short.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
Keith. Mr. Atkinson’s assistant. He’s been expecting you. He’s
in conference room B, down the hall. I’ll show him the way,
Cheryl.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
was a bit flustered. Why did the president of the company want to see
him? Had something happened to Amy? Or was he really getting the
bum's rush after all? He followed Keith down the hall. The door to
the conference room was open and a man was inside. Keith made a vague
hand motion waving Short through the door and continued on.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Trevor
Atkinson was tall and matinee idol handsome. He looked up from the
spread out paperwork and pointed at a chair. Short approached him.
“Mr. Atkinson, I’m Parson Short. I understand you’re expecting
me?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Atkinson
took his hand and shook it firmly. “Yes indeed if you're an
investigator Mr. Short, or is it Reverend?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mister
is fine, Parson is my name, not my job.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Good,
then you can get started right away?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">What
is it you need me to do?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
sorry, I thought your office had filled you in. Something has been
stolen from us. Something important. We’re still in a state of a
shock, I’m afraid. Industrial espionage is not that common here.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tell
me all about it.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
piece of experimental hardware was taken in the past few days. We
need it back and we need the thief apprehended. That’s why we wish
to retain you.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
thought of the box in his coat pocket. “How small are we talking,
bread box or pack of cigarettes?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">A
pack of cigarettes would fit. You see we developed a new …” </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Just
then the intercom broke into the conversation. The receptionist said,
“Mr. Atkinson. There is another investigator here.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Send
him in, Cheryl.” Atkinson turned to Short. “Are you expecting an
associate?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
thought of his empty one-desk office. “Not really.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Footsteps
came down the hall and Ty Bonnet stepped through the door. Seeing
Short he spoke abruptly. “Why are you here, Short? Otheros is our
account!”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Atkinson
turned to Short. “You two aren’t together?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
snorted. “In his dreams.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
held up his hands in surrender and smiled. “I think there may have
been a mistake. I was talking to the receptionist and I’m afraid
your assistant made an assumption…”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I’m
confused. You’re not a private investigator?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
laughed. “That’s what I keep saying!”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
ignored him. “Yes sir, I am.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
stepped between Short and Atkinson. “Get lost Short. I have this
job.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
raised his hands again. “No worries. You can have the account.
However, I do believe I may have a lead on what you are looking for,
small box about so big by so big, purple tape holding it closed”
Something told Short not to admit the box was on him. He hoped it
wouldn't buzz again.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
other two looked at him. Ty’s face turned red. Atkinson had a
thoughtful look on his face. He turned to Ty and said. “I’m
afraid we won’t be needing you at this time Mr. Bonnet. I’ll work
with Mr. Short on this matter.” Short felt the box vibrate again in
his pocket but he covered it by clearing his throat vigorously.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
grimaced at Atkinson's remarks. His jaw bunched as he said, “Very
well, Mr. Atkinson.” As he turned to leave, a glare at Short
promised retribution to come. Short shrugged and turned back to
Atkinson.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Atkinson
sat behind the table, getting comfortable. He steepled his hands in
front of his face and spoke. "So, Short, do you have the item?
Where is it?" </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
can put my hands on it. It's in a very safe place for now."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"And
the thief?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
don't know yet, but I'll find her…or him. Especially if I can use
the box as bait."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"It
better work!" Atkinson pulled out his checkbook. "Will a
thousand do for a retainer?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short's
heart thudded and re-started itself. "Sounds reasonable."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"You
have twenty four hours."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"That
may not be enough!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"It
will have to be. There are deadlines involved. Bring the box to me
within twenty-four hours with or without the thief."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Atkinson
keyed the intercom, "Cheryl, Mr. Short is leaving. See him out
please."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
was a mile down the road before he realized he had forgotten to ask
for Amy. He'd be returning in twenty-four hours, he supposed that
would be soon enough. He had felt the box vibrate a couple of times
during his interview with Atkinson. If it was a cell phone, the
battery would be running out at this rate. He called Jean at the cafe
but no one had come looking. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
decided to stop off at the Max’s Hula Hut for dinner on the way
home. Some gluten-free burritos and kolaches would balance out his
sweet roll for lunch, he figured.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Chapter
3</b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jay
Leno was in rare form as Short finished off the last of the Goo Goo
Cluster ice cream. The studio audience was laughing at a joke about
the President when there was a knock on Short's door. He muted the
show and opened the door. Amy was standing on his front step.
Shocked, he backed up and let her in. She kissed him lightly on the
lips. "Mmm, Goo Goo Cluster! How are you doing?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Pretty
good."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"How's
the private eye business?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Oh,
you know, slow. You look fantastic!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Why
thank you kind sir! You know, Cheryl told me you came by the office
this afternoon, and why."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
doubt that, I actually came to see you."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Oh,
I thought that was probably it, but you spoke to Atkinson instead. He
hired you to retrieve something."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Cheryl
talks a lot."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
put her hand on his chest. "You know, if you give it to me, I'll
see that Atkinson gets it. It would do a lot for my career. I'd
really appreciate it!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
had trouble swallowing for a moment. In spite of everything, Amy
still had that effect on him. "It isn't here. Besides, I can't,
I need it to catch the thief. You shouldn’t tempt me, besides, what
about that restraining order thing?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Is
it…tempting? The restraining order is nothing. Just something the
girls said I should do. You'd never hurt me. Would you?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Of
course not."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short's
coat was on the dining room chair, he watched as she idly ran her
hands over it, as if she were caressing a puppy. He sighed as he
remembered her talented hands. They were so talented he’d stopped
leaving his wallet in his coat or pants after the second month they
were married.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"You're
a sweet guy. Are you sure you won't give it to me? You know I can
make it worth your while."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Like
I said, it's not here. And I've made other plans for it."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"You're
loss, tiger. I’ll just leave you alone to think about it. When you
come to your senses you know where to reach me. Any time, just
whistle!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He
followed her out, making sure she left, then breathed a sigh of
relief. The part of him that had been missing her wasn't the same
part that remembered how utterly mercenary she was. Fortunately he
had hidden the box in a safe place. The box had vibrated several more
times while he was watching television and he'd grown tired of it.
Besides, he wasn’t too sure what Atkinson might do. He'd finally
put it inside the back of his old radio, a 1932 Silvertone floor
model that he'd always intended to restore. People these days tended
to forget how much empty space was in one of those old electronics
cabinets. Short often used it as a place to stash things. When he’d
first gotten it there had been an old bottle of nitro glycerin
stashed in it. That was another story. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">However,
Short was really getting curious about what was in that box. Some
mysteries were more solvable than others.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
overslept the next morning. As he was enjoying his coffee and donut
for breakfast his phone rang. Jean was calling from the cafe. "That
girl came by for the box. I was giving her your card when her friend
showed up. The friend said she knows you. They're on their way."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Thanks."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
had only just hung up the phone when he heard the car on the gravel
outside. When he opened the door he recognized the young woman from
the cafe. She looked at him nervously. Strangely, or maybe not, she
was accompanied by Amy. He ushered them both into the kitchen.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
said brightly, "Surprise!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I'm
not sure anything could surprise me anymore."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"This
is Justine Atkinson."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Oh
really? Any relation?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
spoke, "Trevor's my uncle. Amy said that you have my box."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Your
box, huh? Did she tell you why I was holding on to it?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Yes,
but we were hoping to convince you otherwise."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"So
tell me."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
put her hand on Justine's arm. It was almost painful to see how
Justine looked at her.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Let
me tell him."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
nodded jerkily at her. She turned to Short.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"A
programmer in Kansas developed a smart phone app called "Pinocchio".
It's pretty ingenious. He wanted it to be free to the public, but
Otheros stepped in. They bought it outright. The programmer then had
a "fatal accident". Otheros, specifically Trevor Atkinson,
felt that they could make a lot of money by charging money to
suppress the app."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"And
Pinocchio is,,,"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
spoke, "It's a handheld lie detector. On a phone."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
nodded. "In the box is a smart phone. What they call a
"jailbreak" model. It can be made to work with any cell
provider. But that's not the important part. On the phone is the only
existing copy of the Pinocchio app. A courier dropped it off, no one
has even had a chance to open it yet."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
thought for a moment, "so, people of means who don't care to be
caught lying…."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
smiled nervously, "most politicians, salesmen, televangelists,
…"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
laughed, "heck, plenty of spouses. There are any number of
people who would pay to avoid being caught in a lie."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
started to reply to that but let it go.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
rubbed her temples. "That was Uncle Trevor's plan. To see how
many people he could find who would pay to have it destroyed. That's
why I took it. It just seemed really wrong. Amy helped me, but
basically I just walked out with it a couple of days ago. I was
taking it to show a TV journalist when I lost it."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
playfully swatted her on the hand, "you left it in the cafe, you
mean!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"There
were deputies, I thought they were following me."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
thought for a moment. "How does it work?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Only
the developer really knew. However, when it's running on the phone no
one can tell. You can program it to use a ring tone or vibrate if you
want. You set it so that you won't confuse it for a call or a text
message and you're the only one who will know. In demo mode it
vibrates a long and a short signal, like "buzzzzzzzzz—-buzz."
Just another text message if anyone hears it, but only you know the
truth."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
said, "Literally!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
made a decision, he went to the other room and retrieved the box. He
returned with it to the kitchen. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Both
Amy and Justine reached for it eagerly, Short held on to it for a
moment.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
sympathize with what you want to do, but I have a dilemma."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
other two looked at him, puzzled.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
do have a commitment to return the device, along with the thief. And,
Atkinson knows that I have it."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
looked at Amy, then spoke hesitatingly. "I'll be in trouble, but
I can't believe Uncle Trevor will press charges. I’ve been feeling
bad about it anyway."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Amy
said, "I think you’re being silly. I think I have an idea
about the phone though. Can I have it?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
reluctantly handed over the box. Amy took it and carefully began to
peel off the tape.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"What
are you doing?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"You'll
see." She removed the tape easily enough, opened the box and
removed the phone. She glanced at it and dropped it into her purse.
Then she pulled out another cell and put it into the box. "This
one is clean. I took it from a recycling center." Then, she
re-taped the box and dropped it onto the floor, pulled a skillet off
the rack and whacked it hard three times. The box was crushed, with
the new phone inside. Amy laughed, “There now, it was accidentally
dropped and run over by a car!”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
turned white as a ghost, "What have you done?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Think
about it, honey. As far as they know the phone is destroyed like it
was going to be anyway. If Short takes you to Trevor with it, what
are they going to do about it? Meanwhile, I'll take the phone to the
press and after a few days the story will be out! Atkinson's
contributors will be pissed, but what can they do? I'll give you the
credit; you'll be a hero! Trust me!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Before
anyone else could move, Amy picked up her purse and bustled out the
door leaving a quick peck on each of their cheeks. Short let her go.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
shook her head, "what just happened?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"We've
been Amy’d. No doubt she plans to pull the same scam Atkinson was
going to. Within an hour she'll be contacting congressmen, and so
on."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"She
wouldn't do that, she said she's going to the press."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Are
you two, umm, a couple?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
looked down, then shook her head. “Amy’s been very sweet to me.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"You
don't know her like I do, kid. I doubt either of us will see her
again.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">How
could you let her do it then?”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Experience,
she’s sort of a force of nature. Forget it, let's call your uncle
and see if we can convince him."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As
he dialed the phone Short sighed. He really wasn't surprised. It was
probably better this way.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Chapter
4</b></span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
entered Otheros United with Justine in tow. Cheryl was not at the
reception desk. The uniformed security guard met them. His nameplate
said "Bruno".</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
raised an eyebrow. "Bruno? Really?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bruno
shrugged and led them down an empty hallway to another conference
room. Ty Bonnet was inside. Bruno entered with them, closed the door
and put his back against it. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
spoke first, "Where's the box?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
and Justine spoke at the same time, "Where's Atkinson?"
"Where's Uncle Trevor?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"He
called a company meeting in the cafeteria. He didn't want anyone to
know you were involved. I repeat, where's the box?"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
pulled a plastic bag with the crushed box from his pocket and laid it
on the table. Mangled and disintegrated plastic and electronics were
visible through the tears in the cardboard. Ty poked at it a bit then
carefully placed it into a drawer. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"That's
unfortunate, Short. Still, it was likely going to be destroyed
anyway. You've failed all around, it seems. The device is gone and
you failed to bring in the thief!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
spoke, "That’s not true! He brought me in, I'm the thief!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Nonsense,
Miss Atkinson. You just showed poor judgment."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
stepped forward. "Stop the runaround. My arrangement was with
Atkinson. I insist that we see him."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
smiled a shark's smile. "You're not in any position to make
demands, Short. In fact, Mr. Atkinson may see fit to charge you with
stealing the device and kidnapping poor Justine here!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Justine
started to interrupt but Short grabbed her arm. "You'll never
make that stick."</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"I
guess it all depends on who has the most expensive lawyer. Even now
I'm watching as you physically threaten her. Guard, restrain Mr.
Short!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bruno
stepped forward. Short stepped back, his hands up. "It's okay,
Bruno. I'll go peaceably." He turned back to Ty. “Nothing had
better happen to the girl.”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
“<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It
won’t. She’s a valuable family member. Now, escort Mr. Short from
the premises, guard. His services are no longer required!”</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bruno
stood to one side and indicated the door.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ty
had to have another last word. “By the way, Short; Mr. Atkinson
stopped payment on the check!"</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The
guard held the door as Short walked through. The hall was still empty
of life as Bruno walked him to the exit and ushered him out. </span></span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Short
turned and saluted. "See you soon Bruno, it's been a pleasure!"
Bruno merely shook his head and took his station beside the door as
Short crossed the parking lot, his new cell phone vibrating in his
pocket. One long buzz, one short.</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">02-Mar-2014</span></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-313407100444213062014-02-07T14:28:00.000-08:002014-02-07T14:28:25.400-08:00Parson Short Rides Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4dwEPTozSxYcro9Z5XcTBOTlUhz3-gfNQ3-v-K4vxE50kSMmiDL1fszvklhchFcFG27O-HQJsuxVMxF41SVOWnTBHuFZilxUyatmc2P83tpX7h2dUBFLzhc5_7DhxRk4652buHSFDu4K/s1600/Beara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4dwEPTozSxYcro9Z5XcTBOTlUhz3-gfNQ3-v-K4vxE50kSMmiDL1fszvklhchFcFG27O-HQJsuxVMxF41SVOWnTBHuFZilxUyatmc2P83tpX7h2dUBFLzhc5_7DhxRk4652buHSFDu4K/s1600/Beara.jpg" height="320" width="313" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Many years ago when I was involved in writing mystery plays I came up with a fictional character I called Parson Short. He was mentioned in a couple of the plays as a fictional character and then made an appearance as an actual character in one play. He was intended to be both real and fictional, sort of like Ellery Queen who was the supposed writer of the series of Ellery Queen mysteries of which he was a character as well. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I thought of the character as a sort of take off on other characters I was reading at the time. Ministerial types were hot for awhile back then. Father Brown, Sister Mary Helen, Rabbi David Small and others. Parson Short was conceived as a small time private investigator. He wasn't an actual minister, his first name was actually Parson. I gave him a stock rejoinder to questions, "Parson's the name, not the occupation!"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">We had fun making up fictional books that the fictional character would have appeared in, all titles with the word "Short" in them, like "Short Stories", "Murder for Short", etc. That was from our "Reunion with Death" script, and as I said, Parson Short made an actual appearance as a living character in the script for "Play Dead."</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I was planning my current rural mystery series in progress I thought of having Parson Short be a resident of the town as a reclusive mystery author. Wheels within wheels. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Parson Short has popped up again, though. I am taking a Creative Writing: Plotting class with Fleeta Cunningham in Bastrop, Tx currently. As the main exercise of the class we are plotting and writing a short story throughout the class. Therefore, I have resurrected Parson Short to be my protagonist! Look for the new adventure to appear here when finished!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Onward!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-52486210239709207382012-11-01T17:14:00.004-07:002012-11-01T17:14:37.093-07:00That Scary Time of Year!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu79iYF3PptFdGGSoGAEv6lzvKgLdnmUj8rgtt4GuDc4fXbOTKLFPmgCVED-xNr9LlGSgA6w-1Y_NOfTicAiM797WqrWxlXdJzfs_J9LoHm8AN55jqVo45X7DIBLv4fjJ7afFRd0TkvxHN/s1600/Participant-180x180-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: large;">Halloween, Samhain, Dia de la Muerte. Must be time for NaNoWriMo! </span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've avoided it for years. It's finally time to take the plunge. Today, November 1, starts NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month. Budding or experienced authors tighten their seat belts, ready the falling oxygen masks, and pledge themselves to write a novel of 50,000 words in 30 days time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Yikes!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It has to be a new work, no cheating and finishing up something you've already started. I haven't finished "The Bluebottle Tree" yet, so I'm setting it aside and taking on another story in the same series. The book is tentatively named "Dark Roots". This time, Deputy Constable Pen Sadler is embroiled in a renewed family feud from generations past and a series of very new murders.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">We'll see what happens.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you've ever noticed the dark side of family reunions, you've seen the recalcitrant characters, the smouldering resentments, the old grudges that lurk beneath the surface. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">You haven't?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Well, I have. Maybe it's just my family. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyway, I just decided to take the plunge last night and signed up. Today has been spent clearing the decks and getting ready, so no real word count today. That means I'm already about 1,667 words behind. Sigh.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Onward!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-60562401824289789532012-10-07T12:30:00.004-07:002012-10-07T12:30:46.759-07:00What Brings You To A Screeching Halt?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Saw an old handgun advertisement on <a href="http://billcrider.blogspot.com/">Bill Crider's excellent blog</a> this morning. It started me thinking, as it often does. The reason will become clear in a bit. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The question is, when you're reading an otherwise good novel, hopefully lost in that world, what sort of things can eject you from that fantasy?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">For me, it's firearms info. I do have some expertise in that area. I'm not an expert by any means, but I was fairly into guns for awhile in the past. I even spent a few years as a practicing and licensed Gunsmith. Some of the otherwise better authors out there can make the most basic errors concerning firearms. What are some of those?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> a. Revolvers don't eject shells, at least not automatically.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> b. Revolvers also can't be silenced very effectively.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> c. Handguns come in certain calibers, basically the diameter of the bullet. For the most part, those calibers are different from rifle calibers.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> d. Both revolvers and automatics are still pistols. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> e. Pistols are not rifles, rifles are not shotguns, and vice versa. All are firearms, but they are not interchangeable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are a lot more, but you get the idea. The most recent mistake I can think of was referring to an obvious shotgun as a 12 gauge rifle. Believe me, I was ejected from that high speed story forceably. It took a fair while to get back into it. Sometimes, I don't make the effort.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now, I'm fairly certain that every book has the potential to piss off somebody about something. I guess the key is the readers exposure or expertise. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Are these things needlessly picky? You can decide. My personal feeling is that all books should have a truth, at some level they should educate. Sure, the story may be fiction, but when facts are stated they should indeed be factual. You don't have to be an expert on everything, but if your plot turns on a set of facts, whether it's firearms, bullet trajectory, legalese, military terms, medicine our you name it, you as an author can always have some fact checking done by someone who IS an expert. Cultivate a few of those people, let them have a read of your opus in exchange for some acknowledgement. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The internet is always available for research. Writer's Digest has a wonderful series of books called the "<a href="http://www.librarything.com/series/Howdunit+Series">HowDunit Series</a>" each book focused on an aspect like Poisons, or Forensics.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The info is out there, use it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What yanks your emergency brake?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And, if you want some firearms expertise, I'm available! Cheers!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7557873332474630117.post-19282232882580004802012-08-09T14:51:00.001-07:002012-08-09T14:51:34.501-07:00Want More of The Bluebottle Tree?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRW8SybXuoYgUUPdcW4rbk23PVzpJkUPvLl41xBB8ubk6YmMTW-HIc4eNsz9x1VIcTPB_5jqJxCXo2mqtOHQnEd4Ge7FrrXzgk1orkExif9qBandMGkTyC6tbxrRFDa9mYDyMYvBp3Ogf/s1600/b8b33f41b619d64f76f468a5efe27c4b-51_640x480.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifRW8SybXuoYgUUPdcW4rbk23PVzpJkUPvLl41xBB8ubk6YmMTW-HIc4eNsz9x1VIcTPB_5jqJxCXo2mqtOHQnEd4Ge7FrrXzgk1orkExif9qBandMGkTyC6tbxrRFDa9mYDyMYvBp3Ogf/s320/b8b33f41b619d64f76f468a5efe27c4b-51_640x480.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'd like to invite anyone who hasn't already to peruse the archives of this blog and read the first four chapters of my work in progress "The Indigo Shade of the Bluebottle Tree." It won't take long and I invite comment. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Thanks!</span>lastromantic49http://www.blogger.com/profile/15352300459560808405noreply@blogger.com2