THE CAPTAINS AND THE KINGS
Mark Barkley
Copyright © 1992, 1995
All rights whatsoever in this play are strictly reserved.
Applications for permission for any use whatsoever including performance rights must be made in advance, prior to any such proposed use.
(A Play In Two Acts)
CAST LIST
David O’Neill ( 49 years)
Catherine O’Neill (David’s daughter : 26 years)
Peter Schelling ( 34 years)
Caitlin O’Neill ( David’s Wife : 47 years)
Dawn Edwards (David’s daughter : Therese’s twin : 20 years)
Therese Thomas (David’s daughter : 20 years)
Cliff Thomas (Therese’s husband : 23 years)
The Captains and The Kings was first presented by the Centenary Theatre Group Inc.
In association with The Edge Theatre Company at Chelmer Hall, Brisbane, on 11 November, 1995.
The cast and crew was as follows:
David O’Neill Rob Beckwith
Catherine O’Neill Sandra Harman
Peter Schelling Peter Moore
Caitlin O’Neill Penny Murphy
Dawn Edwards Juliet Toomer
Therese Thomas Bernadette Alizart
Cliff Thomas Jeremy McKay
Director Ron Kelly
Stage Manager Ben McKay
Lighting Helen Flint
Sound Teresa Tweeddale
(Author’s Note: For the staging of this play I wish to acknowledge the contribution and support of Jeanette and Stephen Scott. But most of all this production would not have been possible without the energy, the vision, the courage and the genius of Ron Kelly)
SEQUENCE OF SCENES
All scenes take place in the reception hall of “The Macleay River Guest House”, Kempsey – except Act II Scene V which occurs somewhere in Sydney.
The year is 1968.
ACT I
Scene I Friday, August 30 2.00pm
Scene II Friday, August 30 3.00pm
Scene III Friday, August 30 4.30pm
Scene IV Saturday, August 31 10.00am
Scene V Saturday, August 31 11.00am
Scene VI Saturday, August 31 4.00pm
Scene VII Saturday, August 31 7.00pm
ACT II
Scene I Sunday, September 1 2.00pm
Scene II Sunday, September 1 6.00pm
Scene III Monday, September 2 1.00am
Scene IV Monday, September 2 8.00am
Scene V A few weeks later
Scene VI A few days later
ACT ONE
Scene One
(CATHERINE enters from the main entrance and sets down her suitcase.)
CATHERINE
Hello! Mum! Dad! Anybody home? (Rings desk bell) Hello!
CAITLIN
(Enters from kitchen) Where the hell have you been?
CATHERINE
I..
CAITLIN
We.. I’ve been up half the night worried sick about you Catherine. You were supposed to be here last night.
CATHERINE
Well.
CAITLIN
Can’t you use a telephone?
CATHERINE
I’m not too bad thanks very much Mum. A little stiff in the shoulder from changing a tyre, and..
CAITLIN
But are you alright?
CATHERINE
Like I said, the car was acting up so I thought I’d stop at Bulahdelah for the night. Sorry I didn’t ring.
CAITLIN
Yes, well we would have liked to have known.
CATHERINE
I’m sorry. Look Mum, I’m twenty-eight. I can look after myself.
CAITLIN
Hmm. Famous last words, “I can look after myself”. It’s a sick world out there Catherine.
CATHERINE
Yes Mum, it’s good of you to remind me. Anyway how have you been?
CAITLIN
Fine.
CATHERINE
And how’s Dad?
CAITLIN
Not bad.
CATHERINE
Seriously?
CAITLIN
He’s been better I suppose.
CATHERINE
Where is he?
CAITLIN
Out in the garage giving the car a grease and oil change.
CATHERINE
Should he be doing that in his condition?
CAITLIN
His condition? He’s not pregnant.
CATHERINE
What I mean is, shouldn’t he be resting?
CAITLIN
Your father will do what he pleases. He always has done, always will. You should know that.
CATHERINE
I never thought I’d hear you say that. I always thought you wore the trousers in our family.
CAITLIN
What? Listen my girl, your father has been very good to me. Good to us all. He’s always let me do exactly what I wanted to do. Just because he’s never argued with anything I’ve said doesn’t mean he doesn’t wear the trousers. It just means he’s got impeccable taste, that’s all. I only regret that he wasn’t a bit tougher on you.
CATHERINE
Me?
CAITLIN
Yes. Look at you. You’re twenty-eight and you’re still single. I mean it’s unnatural.
CATHERINE
Thanks a lot.
CAITLIN
I don’t think it’s entirely your fault, mind you. Your father’s got a lot to answer for.
CATHERINE
Dad?
CAITLIN
Yes. I don’t think I’ve ever told you this. The times he speaks of most fondly were his little chess games with you at the farm.You’d both sit in the garden, you with your pig-tails and him with his straw hat, and you always beat the pants off him. He used to be in awe of you. He’d came to me and say, “Caitlin, that girl can do what she wants” Oh look, here’s me rabbiting on. The kettle’s just boiled. Would you like a cuppa?
CATHERINE
I’d die for one. Mum, you never told me he was in awe of me.
CAITLIN
Well, why swell your head any more. Still white with one sugar?
CATHERINE
Please. So how is Dad?
CAITLIN
(From kitchen) Why haven’t you found yourself a man yet?
CATHERINE
A man?
CAITLIN
You don’t want to leave your run too late.
CATHERINE
Mum, this is 1968. Women have got more choices these days. I mean, hell we’ve got the pill haven’t we?
CAITLIN
What did you say?
CATHERINE
I said, we’ve got more choices.
CAITLIN
(Emerging from kitchen with the tea tray) I thought you said something else. When I was your age I was married with three children biting my ankles, one of them being you. I just don’t want you to miss out on the pleasure of getting scarred ankles.
CATHERINE
I know Mum.
CAITLIN
Well just don’t leave it too late.
CATHERINE
I know.
CAITLIN
Heavens, twenty-eight and not married. It’s .. unnatural.
CATHERINE
Okay Mum.
CAITLIN
It’s unnatural.
CATHERINE
Mum give it a rest will you?
CAITLIN
(After a long pause and a sip of tea) It’s unnatural.
CATHERINE
What’s brought this on?
CAITLIN
Your lifestyle’s just too unfixed. I mean, you’ve dropped out of uni, you’ve wandered around the world, you’ve squandered a lot of your time. Most of your old friends are nursing or teaching, aren’t they?
CATHERINE
And the rest have got scarred ankles.
CAITLIN
Catherine.
CATHERINE
Mum I’m doing okay for myself. I think my future definitely lies in fashion design. I know my store’s not the most exclusive in Sydney, but it’s had modest success. And all my trips to London and Europe have helped me gain a feel for what’s in vogue. So I’m fine really.
CAITLIN
You’ve got your father’s eyes. You’re a dreamer.
CATHERINE
So, at the risk of you changing the subject again. How is Dad?
CAITLIN
It’s hard to say Catherine. I mean, it’s easy to say bit it’s hard to say, if you know what I mean.
CATHERINE
You seem to be holding up pretty well.
CAITLIN
Well it won’t help anyone if I drop my bundle, will it? I’m just taking each day as it comes. This weekend is very important to me. It’s given me something to look forward to.
CATHERINE
Do you need a hand with Sunday’s dinner?
CAITLIN
Bless you love, but cooking was never your forte.
CATHERINE
True, but no-one could set a table like I could.
CAITLIN
True, I’ll grant you that.
CATHERINE
So what exactly is the plan for the weekend?
CAITLIN
Well, Dawn and her better half arrive tomorrow morning sometime. Therese and her lesser half should be here shortly after them. The twins will help me with the baked dinner on Sunday.
CATHERINE
Good.
CAITLIN
Yes, I thought it was the least I could do for this Father’s Day. Seeing it may very well be our last together.
CATHERINE
It’s that bad?
CAITLIN
Catherine, Monday I have to drive your father to Brisbane for more treatment. It looks like his remission is over. I haven’t asked you this yet, but could you please look after the guest house while we’re away?
CATHERINE
Of course.
CAITLIN
You won’t have much difficulty. It’s been very quiet lately. There’s just one fellow who’s been here for a few days now. A real strange type, a German I think. Oh, and for the sake of the guests you can close the kitchen.
CATHERINE
(Pensively) Monday.
CAITLIN
Hey c’mon. That was supposed to be a joke.
CATHERINE
I didn’t know it was that bad.
CAITLIN
Never mind love, cheer up.What else can I tell you about? What’s been going on? Oh yes, Isobella’s had another litter of kittens. Gorgeous little devils. One grey, two ginger moggies, and a tom as black as the ace of spades. The prettiest little faces. And a mum who’s proud as punch.
CATHERINE
Monday.
CAITLIN
Your father and I went to the Mayfair on Wednesday night. A Yul Brynner movie. The title just about says it all for us, “The Long Duel”, ha ha.
(CATHERINE sits next to her mother and puts her arms around CAITLIN who comforts her)
CAITLIN
Come on now Catherine, no tears please. We’ve been this way before.
CATHERINE
Right.
CAITLIN
Have you bought a present yet?
CATHERINE
No I haven’t had a chance. Does he need anything at the moment?
CAITLIN
Not really. Try and think of something he may need for hospital.
CATHERINE
Pyjamas maybe?
CAITLIN
That’d be nice.
(PETER is descending the staircase)
CAITLIN
Oh hello Mr Schelling.
PETER
Good day Mrs O’Neill. Could I have a word with you please?
CAITLIN
Is everything okay?
PETER
I’m having some problems with my room. Is Mr O’Neill here at the moment?
CAITLIN
He’s a bit busy. Can I pass a message on?
PETER
Well I’m having some maintenance problems. I’ve put up with them for the past few nights but they’re really starting to annoy me.
CAITLIN
Maintenance problems?
PETER
Hmmm. (Produces notes and reads) I have this annoying problem with the shower dripping and the cistern running. It’s not so bad during the day because I’m hardly there, but at night I have to close the bathroom door just to get any sleep. And once I do that it cuts off the flow-through ventilation. And the latches on the main windows don’t work. I’ve had to prop the windows open with books to get any airflow. Also do you have any idea why the room is so musty?
CAITLIN
Well, you know when you look out the window and see that big river at the bottom of the house? In January the house was at the bottom of the big river. That’s why your room is musty, Mr Schelling.
PETER
Hmmm.
CAITLIN
Please leave me the list and I’ll make sure those things get done as quickly as possible.
CATHERINE
Well I’d just like to say that I’ve got no problems with my room Mrs O’Neill.
PETER
You’re a guest here too?
CATHERINE
Oh yes. I come here all the time. Oh, the only problem I do have with my room Mrs O’Neill, is I must be next to the honeymoon suite. I’m being kept awake at night by the couple next door going for one another in wild, passionate .. (CAITLIN slyly kicks CATHERINE) Mrs O’Neill I think you accidentally kicked me.
PETER
The honeymoon suite?
CATHERINE
It wasn’t you was it? (Gets kicked again) Mrs O’Neill please, I’ll get scarred ankles!
CAITLIN
I’ll give you ..
PETER
No I’m here on my own. But that’s funny, I think I’ve got a room next to the honeymoon suite.
CATHERINE
Terrible, isn’t it?
PETER
Hmm.
CATHERINE
I mean, all that noise. It’s almost .. unnatural.
(CAITLIN gives CATHERINE a “look”)
PETER
No, I’m sure I’ve got the room next to the honeymoon suite and I haven’t heard a thing.
CATHERINE
Well all I can say is thank your lucky stars you’ve got a dripping shower.
PETER
Yes..
CAITLIN
Oh for heaven’s sake. Look, I’ll go and get my husband Mr Schelling. (To CATHERINE) And I’ll deal with your problems later .. Miss.
(CAITLIN exits through the front door)
PETER
You don’t seem to be having much luck here either.
CATHERINE
Hmmm.
PETER
I said, you don’t seem to be getting much satisfaction here. I don’t blame you.
CATHERINE
Oh, you don’t?
PETER
This guest house is like the land that time forgot.
CATHERINE
Uh huh.
PETER
Do you live around here?
CATHERINE
No.
PETER
Oh that’s right. You said you come here all the time. Where from?
CATHERINE
From the south.
PETER
So do I. Why do you come here?
CATHERINE
Why not. Do you think I should have woken up to myself by now?
PETER
Well there’s got to be better places in Kempsey.
CATHERINE
I’m sure there is.
PETER
But this place is cheap, right?
CATHERINE
Which is exactly why you’re here too, right?
PETER
No, oddly enough it was recommended to me by someone in my practice.
CATHERINE
Uh-huh, obviously someone who doesn’t mind squalid conditions and inefficient service.
PETER
Yes, well funny you should mention that. They don’t seem to go too far out of their way to help you here, do they? You know something? A few days ago I had to take a drive out to South West Rocks. I said to the old fool who runs the place, “I’m going for a drive”, and he said “To where?”. I told him and he said, “What do you want to go out there for?”.
I was a bit taken aback and almost told him to mind his own business, but I thought better of it and said, “Navel gazing”.To which he just looked at me stunned and let out this inane laugh. (Mimics) “Heh heh heh heh heh heh" Somehow he doesn’t strike me as the full quid.
CATHERINE
No, he doesn’t does he?
PETER
(Seeing DAVID in the doorway) Speak of the devil.
(DAVID enters wearing overalls and wiping his hands on an oily rag)
DAVID
G’day sweetheart. How are you?
CATHERINE
Dad!
DAVID
You’re looking well.
CATHERINE
You’ve lost a little weight (They hug)
PETER
Dad?
DAVID
“David” will do for you Mr Schelling. Heh heh. Sorry, I couldn’t resist that one. (Shakes Peter’s hand) How are you today?
PETER
(Wiping the oil off his hand) Oh, not too bad .. I suppose.
DAVID
Caitlin says you’ve got some troubles with your room.
PETER
(Passing his list to DAVID) I’ve written it down for you.
DAVID
Thank you. (He studies the list) Hmm .. yes .. Oh well those latches were never much chop. That’s easy fixed. New washers for the shower taps too, I think. Yes, and the toilet .. Oh, that’d be trouble with that .. um .. that funny floating thing on top. If one must use the technical term. Heh heh.
PETER
I’m sure.
DAVID
Listen, I really appreciate you doing this Mr Schelling. You see we don’t know if anything’s wrong with our rooms unless people tell us. We don’t sleep in them ourselves.
PETER
Yes.
DAVID
Well I hope the rest of your stay’s a bit more enjoyable.
PETER
I did want to enquire about staying a few more days.
DAVID
Certainly.
PETER
I’d like to pay in advance.
DAVID
You can pay us when you check out Mr Schelling. That’s no problem.
PETER
It would suit me best to pay now. (He pulls an envelope from his inner pocket) It just allows me more freedom. I may have to check out in the middle of the night.
DAVID
Oh by all means. Look, Catherine, could you help Mr Schelling please?
CATHERINE
What!
DAVID
You’ve handled the bookings before.
CATHERINE
I..
DAVID
Could you just write out a receipt please sweetheart? I’ll just grab a few things from the tool shed. Okay if I fix those things up now Mr Schelling?
PETER
Fine.
DAVID
Good. I’ll get out of your way. Oh, and um .. heh heh .. You’re not planning any more trips out to South West Rocks are you? Heh heh.
PETER
Well, maybe. Why do you ask?
DAVID
(Shaking his head) Heh heh heh heh heh heh. (He exits)
PETER
And that’s your father?
CATHERINE
Has been all my life.
PETER
Well I feel like I’ve been put in a bit of a spot here.
CATHERINE
Oh do you?
PETER
Yes.
CATHERINE
I’m sure we can remain professional about it. Rise up above any ill feelings so to speak.
PETER
I hope so.
CATHERINE
Hmm.
PETER
No hard feelings then?
CATHERINE
Oh no. (Moves to the reception desk) Let’s just be completely professional. Please take a number.
(She reaches into a box on the desk, grabs a card with “2” on it, and hands it to PETER)
PETER
What’s this?
CATHERINE
One second please. (She writes for a few seconds in the register and then looks up) Right. (Looking around the room) One!
PETER
What?
CATHERINE
One!
PETER
What is this? A delicatessen?
CATHERINE
Sir, I’m just an old fool’s daughter. Number One!
PETER
Look do you want my money or not?
CATHERINE
Going once, going twice, going three times. Right! Number Two! Oh yes sir. Can I help you?
PETER
Are you finished?
CATHERINE
Don’t you dare call my father an old fool, or say that his guest house is run squalidly or inefficiently.
PETER
I never said this guest house was run squalidly or inefficiently. That was you putting words in my mouth. Remember?
CATHERINE
My father and mother work very hard.
PETER
I’m sure they do. Could I have my receipt please?
(CATHERINE counts the money and scribbles a receipt)
CATHERINE
One more thing Mr Schelling, my father’s going away on Monday. So this weekend means a great deal to my parents. I don’t want anything to spoil it for them.
PETER
Are you .. ? No no no wait. Let’s get something straight here. I am not in the slightest bit interested in your mother or father. I am not the slightest bit interested in you. As far as I’m concerned, after this weekend, this place can be swallowed up by the river for all I care.
CATHERINE
Fine. Your receipt .. Sir!
PETER
And you can let your bloody showers drip. And keep your honeymoon suite for all your cow cockies to hitch themselves up to the bed post.
CATHERINE
Fine.
PETER
Fine. (Begins to exit)
CATHERINE
Fine.
PETER
Fine! (He exits)
CATHERINE
(After him) Fine!!
(Blackout)
Scene Two
(DAVID is seated on the sofa. CAITLIN calls from offstage)
CAITLIN
David. David! (She enters) David.
DAVID
Yes dear.
CAITLIN
Are you feeling alright love?
DAVID
Well, no dear. I’ve just been a bit sick in the toilet.
CAITLIN
Oh, poor old thing.
DAVID
I’ve just been so weary lately.
CAITLIN
Well love, you’ve got to take it easy.
DAVID
I know I know, but I just had to get the car ready for the trip and get some odd jobs around the house out of the way.
CAITLIN
Look, we’ve got the girls here for the weekend. If there’s anything that needs doing, get them to do it.
DAVID
Yes. I might just do that. Catherine’s looking well, isn’t she?
CAITLIN
Too well. She needs to settle down I think.
DAVID
Oh Cait, everything works itself out in the long run.
CAITLIN
Maybe you could talk to her.
DAVID
About what?
CAITLIN
Settling down.
DAVID
I’ll do no such thing. I’ve always said that girl can do what she wants. As long as she’s happy, things will work themselves out. Have you had a chance to talk to her about ..
CAITLIN
I was hoping you could ask her.
DAVID
Oh, well. I suppose it should come from me. And the twins are all set to come tomorrow?
CAITLIN
As far as I know.
DAVID
Mm .. It’s going to be a big weekend Cait. There’s a few things that I’ve got to say to some people. A few things I have to get off my chest. I might not get another chance.
CAITLIN
Stop talking that way. You can still fight.
DAVID
I used to think so. Now it’s more ..
CAITLIN
Don’t you dare! You’re just going to accept it, are you?
DAVID
Oh come on now Cait. That’s enough.
CAITLIN
You’re just going to roll over and let it beat you?
DAVID
I said that’s enough! Let’s not argue.
CAITLIN
(Hugging DAVID) Oh, David. I’m so scared.
DAVID
That’s not like you. That doesn’t sound like my Caitlin Clare O’Neill. My little sabre tooth tiger. The scourge of any traffic cop silly enough to pull you over. I must be the only man in New South Wales who was tempted to fill out an insurance claim on a wrecked television with “destroyed by hurled vase”. I’m not going to leave you sweetheart.
CAITLIN
That’s what I wanted to hear.
DAVID
You’re easily pleased, aren’t you. Cait, are you going into town this arvo?
CAITLIN
I’m going to Woollies a bit later on.
DAVID
Could you be a dear and see if they’ve got any window latches please?
CAITLIN
What do they look like?
DAVID
You know the ones we have in the guest rooms. I just have to replace one in Mr Schelling’s room.
CAITLIN
Mr Schelling? I’m not sure about that fellow. He comes across as a bit strange for my liking. Do you think he’s a German?
DAVID
No, I think he’s an Aussie. What difference does it make?
CAITLIN
Well, he just seems a little bit .. uppity.
DAVID
Oh, he’s alright. He’ll come down a peg or two. Hey .. heh heh .. Do you want to hear something funny?
CAITLIN
What’s that?
DAVID
Heh heh. I tell you he says some of the funniest things. Heh heh. I asked him the other day where he was going and he said “To South West Rocks” .. heh heh .. and then I asked him what he was going to do out there .. heh heh .. and you know what he said? “Nasal gouging”. Heh heh. Oh I suppose I shouldn’t laugh but .. heh heh .. nasal gouging! And I just had this vision of him .. heh heh .. out there all alone, looking out to sea .. heh heh .. grabbing his finger and .. and sticking it right up his nostril. Heh heh .. and then .. heh heh .. he suddenly sneezes .. heh ..and he goes .. he goes .. HHHUNNH! Heh heh heh .. and his eyes bulge out. Heh heh heh heh.
CAITLIN
(Laughing) You goose!
DAVID
Heh heh heh heh .. HHHUNNH! (They exit)
(Blackout)
Scene Three
(PETER is looking through the books on the shelf as DAVID enters)
DAVID
(Looks at PETER) Heh heh.
PETER
Sorry?
DAVID
Nothing.
PETER
I hope you don’t mind me browsing through your books. You have quite a collection.
DAVID
Oh, by all means. They’re here for anyone to enjoy.
PETER
You seem to have an interest in mythology and exploration.
DAVID
Yes. I suppose so. I’ve always been fascinated by people who embark on epic journeys. (Pointing to some books) Australian explorers like Captain Sturt unravelling the inland river system, King Arthur’s quest for the Holy Grail, Jason and the Argonauts’ quest for the Golden Fleece.
PETER
(Points to book) The Apollo space program.
DAVID
That’s right. Man’s quest for the moon. In fact I like to think this guest house is a shrine for Man’s various quests. We lie half way between Brisbane and Sydney and see many a traveller stop the night to refresh, recharge and forge on in the morning to the next camp.
PETER
I see. (He picks up a book) This is one of my favourites.
DAVID
Douglas Stewart’s Collection of Plays. I’d have to say my favourite is “The Fire On The Snow”.
PETER
That would have to be obvious. Captain Scott’s journey to the South Pole.
DAVID
You must have read my mind. Please help yourself to any of the books. We have a games cupboard here as well. Do you like chess?
PETER
Why yes, I love chess.
DAVID
Good. (Opens cupboard) We have Scrabble, Monopoly .. (Looks in) Oh.
PETER
What’s up?
DAVID
Spiders. I’d better get the Mortein.
PETER
What? You’re not going to kill them, are you?
DAVID
Ha ha. You’ve obviously never been married.
PETER
But they’re just daddy long legs. They’re harmless. You don’t have to kill them.
DAVID
Well, we could try something different. (Looks into cupboard) Okay fellows. (Pointing) You, you, you and you. (Thumbs out) Out!
PETER
Hmm. Do what you want. I just think you should show a bit more respect for life.
DAVID
(Pauses and looks at PETER) Well maybe we can give them a stay of execution. (Takes out chess set and closes cupboard) Anyway, I’ll need this for where I’m going.
PETER
Your daughter mentioned you were going somewhere.
DAVID
I’m going to hospital.
PETER
Oh, nothing serious I hope.
DAVID
Leukaemia.
PETER
Oh my God .. I’m sorry.
DAVID
That’s okay. It’s not your fault.
PETER
That was the wrong thing to say.
DAVID
Believe me, nobody knows the right thing to say.
PETER
Yes.
DAVID
You know, I’ve shaken your hand but I don’t think I’ve actually formally introduced myself. David O’Neill. (Shakes Peter’s hand)
PETER
Pleased to meet you. Peter Schelling.
DAVID
What do you do for a crust Peter?
PETER
I’m a solicitor. I work at a practice in Randwick.
DAVID
A solicitor? That’s interesting.
PETER
Do you have any problems at all?
DAVID
Well, with this thing hanging over my head I’d appreciate some advice.
PETER
Legal advice? Wouldn’t you prefer a local opinion?
DAVID
Mm, that’s a long story. Could we talk?
PETER
Sure. Problems with a will?
DAVID
Maybe. A lot of things have changed the way I think since I made it. How about we discuss it over a chess board?
PETER
Ha. That sounds tempting.
DAVID
Good. I’ll set up on the verandah. Heh heh. Give you chance to use your fingers more constructively. Heh heh. You and your nasal gouging.
(DAVID exits to the verandah)
PETER
(Looking after him) Nasal gouging? (Laughs) Nasal gouging. (Pauses) Heh heh heh. (He exits to the verandah carrying the book)
(Blackout)
Scene Four
(DAWN and THERESE enter through the front door.)
DAWN
Hello!
THERESE
(Rings the desk bell) Service! Anybody home?
CAITLIN
(Entering from the kitchen) Oh, come in. Come in!
DAWN
Hi Mum. (Hugs CAITLIN)
THERESE
Mum. How are you? (Hugs CAITLIN)
CAITLIN
I’m fine. I thought you were coming down later on today?
THERESE
No, you know stupid Cliff. Drives like a bat out of hell. Lucky we met up with Dawn in Grafton, or we’d be part of the space program by now.
Wouldn’t be any chance of a cuppa, would there Mum?
CAITLIN
Oh I think there’d be a very real chance. Where are the boys?
(THERESE and DAWN look at each other)
DAWN
Cliff’s just outside but Danny won’t be coming Mum.
CAITLIN
(Slightly shocked) Oh.
DAWN
Where’s Dad?
CAITLIN
He’s around.
(CLIFF enters with the luggage)
CLIFF
G’day. (Drops the bags)
THERESE
Same room as last time Mum?
CAITLIN
Yes dear.
THERESE
Oi! Stirling Moss, upstairs! (CLIFF picks up the luggage, goes to the foot of the stairs, pauses and looks back at THERESE) Upstairs. Same room as before .. go on! Go on!
CLIFF
(Going up the stairs) Um .. There wouldn’t be any chance of ..
CAITLIN
It’s being made.
CLIFF
Ta.
CATHERINE
(Coming down the stairs) Hello Cliff. You’re here early.
CLIFF
Look. Don’t you start.
THERESE
Don’t encourage him Cath.
CLIFF
(Muttering as he continues upstairs) Must be “Pick on Cliff Day”. Bloody “Pick on Cliff Day”.
CATHERINE
Oooh, looks like I ran into a hornet’s nest.
THERESE
Yeah well the hornet’s been grounded. How are you anyway, Cath?
CATHERINE
(Hugs THERESE) Good thanks Tez. Yourself? How are you Dawnie? (She hugs DAWN)
DAWN
How’s the world traveller?
THERESE
Your passport’d be suffering stamp fatigue by now, wouldn’t it?
CATHERINE
The trip was terrific.
CAITLIN
I think I’ll let you girls have a bit of a natter, and get the tea ready. (Aside to DAWN) Is everything alright?
DAWN
Everything’s fine.
CAITLIN
Well .. if you say so. (She exits to the kitchen)
DAWN
So .. How was the trip?
CATHERINE
Marvellous. England was great. Tower of London, all the clubs, Carnaby Street.
THERESE
You haven’t answered the question. How was the trip? Meaning ..
CATHERINE
Well, when I was on the continent ..
THERESE
Ye-e-es.
CATHERINE
I met up with this fellow. A Frenchman.
DAWN & THERESE
Ooh!
THERESE
And?
CATHERINE
And we did a bit of travelling together. All the way to the Greek Islands.
THERESE
Oooh!
DAWN
What was his name?
CATHERINE
Jean-Marie.
THERESE
Jean-Marie? Marie? There was nothing wrong with him was there?
CATHERINE
No no. Everything was in perfect working order.
DAWN & THERESE
Oooh!
CATHERINE
Oh come on. It’s not the be all and end all.
THERESE
It’ll do for starters.
DAWN
So what happened?
CATHERINE
Well after a couple of weeks, we came to an abrupt halt.
THERESE
What?
CATHERINE
He turned out to be an arrogant pig. I decided I wasn’t going to take all the garbage he was dishing out.
I remember our last night together in a Munich beer hall. I’d had a gutful of his “You should be doing this” and “You should be doing that”, so I said “Listen mate, apart from a few obvious physical differences and some constraints of fashion, I am every inch your equal”. Then I got up on the table, put my stein in the air and shouted to the whole world – “To the men in our life, for whom we have to make up and kiss. May they all rot in hell!”
Didn’t that bloody stop him in his tracks!
DAWN
Good on you, Cath!
THERESE
Sounds like a waste of a good man.
CATHERINE
So how’s things been with you, Dawnie?
DAWN
Good.
CATHERINE
And Danny?
DAWN
Oh .. He’s doing well in the bank. (She looks at THERESE)
THERESE
And we’re still on the farm with Cliff’s parents up in Kyogle.
CATHERINE
I thought you would have your own place by now?
THERESE
Yes, well, without sounding like a vulture, I’m waiting to see what happens to Dad. I’ve asked him a few times to see if we can run the guest house down the track.
CATHERINE
You and Cliff running the guest house?
THERESE
I’ll run the guest house. I don’t know what Cliff’ll do. He’s pretty good with his hands when he bothers to use them.
CATHERINE
Yeah he always struck me as being pretty relaxed.
THERESE
You don’t have to be polite. He’s a good-for-nothing layabout. But he’ll change. If it’s the last thing I do, he’ll change.
CATHERINE
I wish I had your patience. I think my trip to Europe’s finally cured me of men.
THERESE
Well that’s one cure that I think I’d prefer the disease. And speaking of diseases, here’s mine now.
(CLIFF comes down the stairs and stops when he sees the girls looking at him. He looks
behind him to see what they’re looking at)
DAWN
Come on down, Cliff.
CATHERINE
Come and take a seat, precious. Tez was just saying that you want to run the guest house.
CLIFF
It’s not my idea. I’d rather be with the girls.
CATHERINE
Girls?
THERESE
Cows.
CLIFF
They need me.
THERESE
Look. No ifs, no buts. We are going to run this guest house. We owe it to .. (Glances DAWN) Well we owe it to Mum. You can’t expect her to run it on her own.
CLIFF
But I like what I’m doing.
THERESE
Cliff!
CLIFF
Yeah, I know. The story of my life. Trying to work out which cow to live with.
DAVID
(At the stairs) Hello hello. What have we got here?
DAWN
Dad.
DAVID
The invaders from the north.
(THERESE and DAWN gather before him)
DAWN
How’ve you been?
DAVID
Not bad.
THERESE
You’re looking well.
DAVID
Thank you. Cliffy?
CLIFF
G’day David.
DAVID
How’s the farm?
CLIFF
(Looks at THERESE) It’s really great.
DAVID
Well that’s what we want to hear.
THERESE
Dad, what Cliff means is ..
DAVID
I’m sure Cliff knows what he means, Tez. Where’s Danny?
DAWN
Danny won’t be here this weekend Dad.
CATHERINE
Not here? But ..
DAWN
Cath, he won’t be here, okay?
DAVID
That’s a shame, but I’m sure he knows best.
CAITLIN
(Bringing in the tea tray) Look out everybody. Clear the way please.
DAWN
I’ll take that.
CAITLIN
Oh you're a dear. (Hands tray to DAWN) Outside on the verandah thanks, love. (To DAVID) Er .. You haven’t had a chance to have that talk yet, have you?
DAVID
Talk? No, not yet.
CAITLIN
Okay everybody, come on. Let’s have an orderly rabble out on to the verandah please. (Takes CATHERINE aside) Catherine, could your father see you for a minute please?
(All exit to the verandah except DAVID and CATHERINE)
CATHERINE
Dad, is there something wrong?
DAVID
No, sweetheart. Take a seat please. (They sit) I wanted to ask you a huge favour.
CATHERINE
Sure.
DAVID
I don’t want you to say yes or no at this stage, but have a think about it first.
CATHERINE
What’s the problem?
DAVID
Well your mother and I have been discussing this for some time now and .. if anything should happen to me .. your mother has said that she wouldn’t want to run the guest house on her own. In the last few weeks a major development has come up.
CATHERINE
What’s that?
DAVID
I’d prefer not to say at this stage. I’ll tell everybody at dinner tomorrow night.
CATHERINE
But aren’t Cliff and Tez taking over the guest house?
DAVID
I’d prefer to tell everyone what’s happening tomorrow night. What I wanted to ask you is, whether your mother could move in with you.
CATHERINE
Move in with me?
DAVID
It would only be for a short while until she gets herself organised. I feel bad asking you this because it doesn’t seem right wanting to sponge off the kids. Especially as you have your own life to lead.
CATHERINE
You mean she’s getting out of the guest house altogether?
DAVID
Yes.
CATHERINE
Who’ll run it?
DAVID
I can’t say at this stage, love. Please have a think about it. It means a lot to us. As I say, it’ll only be for a short time.
CATHERINE
It’s only a small one bedroom place. She won’t mind, will she?
DAVID
She’s roughed it before. I don’t think too many things’ll shock your mother.
CATHERINE
Well I know you wouldn’t ask me unless you had good reason to. Hmm .. Mum around the flat. Actually, the more I think about it, the more I quite like the idea.
(CAITLIN pokes her head in from the verandah)
DAVID
I think it’s safe to come in.
CATHERINE
Looks like you and I are going to be flatmates.
CAITLIN
(Enters) That’s okay, is it love?
CATHERINE
Only if you keep your lectures to the bare minimum.
CAITLIN
Catherine, that’s really helped us out of a tight spot.
DAVID
Yes, we really appreciate it.
CAITLIN
Well I’ll go and get back to the others. Come along, your tea’s getting cold.
CATHERINE
In a minute, Mum. Dad, could you stay for a second please?
CAITLIN
Don’t be too long. (She exits to the verandah)
DAVID
What’s on your mind, sweetheart.
CATHERINE
Nothing, I just haven’t had a chance to talk to you. How are you feeling?
DAVID
Oh, I’ve been better.
CATHERINE
You’ll be alright, won’t you?
DAVID
It’s hard to say, Cath.
CATHERINE
I just can’t imagine you not around.
DAVID
Hmm .. How’ve you been?
CATHERINE
I’ve been well.
DAVID
Your work?
CATHERINE
Oh, I really love what I’m doing. It’s just the best feeling in the world when someone puts on a garment and looks in the mirror and feels good about themselves.
DAVID
That’s good. Well you seem to support yourself very well.
CATHERINE
Yes. Dad, do you .. think I’m alright?
DAVID
Alright?
CATHERINE
Do you think I’m doing the right thing?
DAVID
I don’t understand.
CATHERINE
I mean ..
(PETER appears at the stairs)
DAVID
Peter! (To CATHERINE) Sweetheart, could we talk a little later on please?
CATHERINE
But ..
PETER
The weather looks good.
DAVID
Yes. (To CATHERINE) Sweetheart, you’ve met Mr Schelling, haven’t you?
CATHERINE
Yes, I’ve met Mr Schelling.
DAVID
Mr Schelling’s a solicitor here on holidays.
CATHERINE
Oh.
PETER
Good morning.
DAVID
Catherine, would you mind terribly seeing how your mother’s going please? Tell her I’ll be out shortly.
CATHERINE
Yes, okay. (She exits to the verandah feeling slightly downcast)
PETER
Mate, what a good night last night. I haven’t played chess in ages.
DAVID
Yes, and in parts it showed.
PETER
How many games did we end up playing?
DAVID
Ten.
PETER
Of which I won two. Well without bloating your head any further, I must tip my hat to the master.
DAVID
It was a good night, wasn’t it?
PETER
It was just great to blow out the cobwebs, to sit there at the chess-board with half your men captured and you still came back and flogged me. I must say I was impressed.
DAVID
Well as my father once said, “That’s why they call it “chess” and not “search and destroy””.
PETER
You talked a lot about your father last night.
DAVID
Oh, I’m sorry.
PETER
No. I didn’t mean to accuse you of anything. I just said it as a matter of interest.
DAVID
What can I say? I suppose when someone says anything, I can usually relate it to something my father once said. He was one clever rooster. Considering he was partially blind. An infection robbed him of the sight of his left eye.
PETER
Oh, I’m sorry.
DAVID
But a lot of good things came of it. That’s how I met Cait. She was a nurse at the clinic where they treated him. And you know, losing his eye didn’t slow him down one bit. In fact, there lies another one of his sayings. He used to say to me, “Dave, always remember that the blindest people are not visually impaired”. He kept working at his sawmill till the day he died.
PETER
Really.
DAVID
He was partially blind. I’m partially deaf. We’ve all got to conquer some imperfections. That’s life, isn’t it?
PETER
I never knew my father.
DAVID
Oh, I’m sorry.
PETER
No. You don’t understand. I lived with him for twenty years, I just never knew him.
DAVID
Oh?
PETER
I always used to think it was because I was born late in his life, but all we could really manage was something like a teacher-pupil relationship. I was always taking lectures. I only really started to get close to him towards the end of his life. We were both reaching out for one another, but it was too late. We were already worlds apart when he died.
In fact that’s why I’m here. I wanted to be here before Father’s Day and visit the jail at Trial Bay. My father was interned there during the First World War. His only crime being that he spoke with a German accent. I wanted to see how he lived, where he ate, where he slept. To feel how he felt. Isolated. Wasting precious years of his youth while the world went mad. Looking over the wall with it’s brave acts of war. Like throwing bricks through old people’s homes, and breaking the backs of dachshunds. You know, on a hill by the jail, there’s a monument erected for the inmates that died. It was blown up after the war by some of the locals who resented it’s presence on Australian soil.
DAVID
Another brave act of war.
PETER
What scares me is that if I was them, given the thinking at the time, I probably would have done the same thing.
DAVID
We’re all capable of terrible things, Peter. But the important thing is they’ve rebuilt the monument. Everything rights itself in the long run.
PETER
Yes, I suppose. It inspired me to write something. It’s not very good. Would you like to hear it?
DAVID
Sure.
PETER
I try to dabble in a bit of verse. (He pulls a notebook from his pocket and begins to read)
Wrapped in their flag
World leaders bang their drums
Human loud hailers, “What’s theirs should be ours”
Money for food goes to money for guns
Wilderness dreamers, way laid by words
Just want to teach, to feed their young
Still waters clear now suddenly soiled
Wrapped in their flag, rewards to be won
Brave acts of war, the papers cry
They’re sent away, wrapped in their flag
And return in all pomp and late due dignity
In a green body bag, wrapped in their flag.
DAVID
You wouldn’t happen to be a pacifist would you? That was good.
PETER
Thank you. (Walks to picture on the wall) Is this your father? With the eye patch in his spectacles?
DAVID
Yes, that’s Dad.
PETER
And your mother? (Points to photo)
DAVID
(Pointing to another photo) The compulsory wedding photo. April 1939.
PETER
You scrubbed up pretty well.
DAVID
Ha!
PETER
(Seeing another photo) And this is the family?
DAVID
The compulsory baby-boom family photo. 1953.
PETER
That must be Catherine. She’s the eldest, isn’t she?
DAVID
Uh-huh. And that’s the twins, Dawn and Therese. They’re just outside at the moment. I’ll introduce you to them later.
PETER
And the boy?
DAVID
The boy? That’s .. That’s my son Paul.
PETER
Is he coming here this weekend?
DAVID
I don’t think so. He died six months after this photo was taken. I call this room my “hall of pride and pain”. There’s so much of my life just lining these walls. Photos, certificates of merit, trophies for the girls, the old clock I learnt the time off. Tomorrow evening we’re setting up the dining room table here amongst my memories to celebrate Father’s Day. I’d very much like you to join us.
PETER
I’d be honoured, David.
DAVID
Good. Now let’s get a bite to eat. I’ll introduce you to the rest of the clan. (They exit to the verandah)
(Blackout)
Scene Five
(THERESE enters from the verandah followed by CATHERINE and DAWN)
THERESE
Come on.
CATHERINE
What’s up?
THERESE
What’s going on?
CATHERINE
What?
THERESE
Could you tell me what the hell’s going on?
CATHERINE
What are you talking about?
THERESE
Who is this bloke?
CATHERINE
Who?
THERESE
This solicitor.
CATHERINE
Well, your guess is as good as mine, but he says he’s on holidays.
THERESE
You’ve met him? What’s he doing here? This is a family gathering.
CATHERINE
He’s a guest, Tez. Rest assured he won’t be here for tomorrow night.
(CLIFF enters from the verandah)
THERESE
A solicitor? What the hell’s a solicitor doing here?
DAWN
What are you so upset about?
THERESE
This is a family gathering. And what’s all this about Mum going to live with you?
CATHERINE
I don’t know. I was only asked about an hour ago.
THERESE
You’re not holding out on us, are you?
CATHERINE
What?
THERESE
You haven’t got anything planned here, have you?
CATHERINE
Look, stop talking rot!
THERESE
Oh, rot is it?
CATHERINE
Listen Tez. Is the reason that you’re carrying on like this, got anything to do with the fact that a solicitor, plus Mum’s staying with me, plus Dad’s illness, plus a change in his way, all adds up to a change in his will? And you’re worried that you won’t be in it?
THERESE
That’s not fair.
CATHERINE
(Backing down) Okay.
THERESE
I don’t care if I don’t get a red cent from Dad.
CATHERINE
Okay Tez
THERESE
I don’t care if I don’t get a red cent.
DAWN
Excuse me. The person we’re talking about is still alive and may have another few good years left in him. All this talk about .. carving up the estate is, well I don’t know, morbid.
(There is a brief silence)
THERESE
I’m not talking about carving up the estate. I’m talking about running this guest house. If Mum’s going to live with you, it means the place is being sold to someone else.
CATHERINE
Well don’t feel bad about it.
THERESE
But I asked for it. I asked for it.
CATHERINE
I’m sure he’s got his reasons.
THERESE
But I asked for it, Cath. I mean .. how long can he hold .. a grudge?
DAWN
Shhh!
CLIFF
(To THERESE) What do you mean by that?
(The girls look at each other in silence)
THERESE
By what?
CLIFF
What you just said?
DAWN
Nothing.
CLIFF
There’s never a dull moment with you girls. It’s like walking a verbal minefield. Can I say something? Why don’t you just ask him?
THERESE
Ask him what?
CLIFF
Well rather than get your knickers in a twist, why don’t you ask him what’s going on? That’s always your problem Therese. The way you think. You say to yourself, “A equals B .. and B equals C .. so therefore A equals Z”. And then you get upset and take it out on everyone else.
THERESE
Is that right? Then you ask.
CLIFF
Me?
THERESE
Yes, you.
CLIFF
But it’s got nothing to do with me.
THERESE
You’ll be running this place when we take over.
CLIFF
If we take over.
THERESE
No. I mean when we take over. If you can’t put a convincing argument to Dad for us to take over this place, don’t come crawling to me, that’s all I’ve got to say. You can take your bed and shack up in the shed with your “girls” for all I care.
CLIFF
Tez, don’t talk like that.
THERESE
No! That’s final! (She storms outside)
CLIFF
Strewth!
CATHERINE
Well looks like you’re a man with a mission. I’ll go and get Dad. (She exits)
CLIFF
(To himself) Bloody hell. Half the world is conniving, over-suspicious and over-ambitious .. and the other half are men.
DAWN
I beg your pardon?
CLIFF
I mean, we’ve got a good life on the farm. A good future there. But she just has a bee in her bonnet about this place. She keeps on and on. I mean, it’s just a motel keeper’s job. The way she carries on, anybody’d think she wants me to be a brain surgeon.
DAWN
I see.
CLIFF
I don’t want the job. All I want is a quiet life.. How come all the common sense went over to your side of the womb?
(DAVID enters from the verandah)
DAWN
Well here’s the man you should convince. (She exits)
DAVID
Cliff, how are you?
CLIFF
Oh .. good thanks, mate.
DAVID
The girls said you wanted to see me about something.
CLIFF
Yes well, we were talking .. that is, the girls and I were talking .. and the subject was raised about the guest house.
DAVID
Oh .. Why should you be worried about that?
CLIFF
Well .. What I mean is .. um .. is the future is sort of uncertain. I mean, say in the event of you .. um .. that you ..
DAVID
Die.
CLIFF
Yes. I mean no .. I mean ..
DAVID
Calm down, Cliff. I think I know what you’re talking about.
CLIFF
You do?
DAVID
You know, it’s an interesting feeling.
CLIFF
What is?
DAVID
Dying. It’s as if you sprout palm trees and become an oasis, and all these people trudge across the desert towards you, with their hands out. (He puts his arm around CLIFF) Now, I’m not suggesting for a minute that that’s what you’re doing.
CLIFF
No.
DAVID
You’re my favourite son-in-law.
CLIFF
Yeah.
DAVID
But of course, we’ve got to think about the future.
CLIFF
Well that was our concern, Dave.
DAVID
Of course. Tell me, Cliff. Would you be happy running this guest house? Cleaning toilets and showers, mowing the lawns, ordering stock for the kitchen, throwing out non-paying lodgers, sweating on the next holiday season?
CLIFF
I would have to say ..
DAVID
That’s all I wanted to know. Look, I appreciate your concern but everything’ll be revealed to you tomorrow night. I’m sorry, but I’d prefer not to say any more at this stage.
CLIFF
Okay, but a lot of people are worried about you.
DAVID
Cliffy, if people are worried about me mate, they’ve got no worries. Now if you’ll excuse me please, I left some people in the garden.
(DAVID exits as THERESE appears at the verandah doorway, carrying a cup of tea.)
CLIFF
Shit.
THERESE
Well?
CLIFF
Look, love ..
THERESE
No no. Come, sit. (She beckons to the sofa)
CLIFF
Now look ..
THERESE
Sit, please. Sit!
(CLIFF sits. THERESE sits and places the cup on the table)
THERESE
Well?
CLIFF
Love .. Your father’s a very strong willed man and .. is that tea?
THERESE
And?
CLIFF
We talked.
THERESE
And?
CLIFF
And .. He’d prefer to tell us tomorrow night.
THERESE
What?
CLIFF
What’s happening.
THERESE
What’s happening?
CLIFF
That’s right.
THERESE
No. What is happening?
CLIFF
Oh, what’s happening .. to the guest house, I guess. Look, are you sure you don’t want to drink that?
THERESE
And what did you say?
CLIFF
Well I said..
THERESE
Yes.
CLIFF
I said..
THERESE
Yes. “Tell me, Cliff.. Would you be happy running this guest house? Cleaning toilets and sweating on the next holidays”.
CLIFF
You were listening?
THERESE
And did you jump in and say “Yes”? You worm! (She picks up the cup and throws the contents over him) Try and wheedle your way out of that!
CLIFF
Oh, no. I hate it when you do that!
THERESE
Jellyfish! I would have preferred marrying a real man! (She exits)
CLIFF
So would I!
(Blackout)
Scene Six
(DAVID is behind the counter. CATHERINE enters from the verandah and heads for the kitchen)
DAVID
Oh Catherine, could I see you for a second please?
CATHERINE
Of course.
DAVID
Your mother says you’ll be setting the table tomorrow night. I know this sounds silly, but I’d like the table to be set like this. (Passes her a diagram) It shows where I’d like everyone to sit.
CATHERINE
(Looking at the paper) Mr Schelling’s joining us?
DAVID
I’ve asked him to. You’ve got no objection to that, have you?
CATHERINE
Dad, this is supposed to be a family gathering. It’s very important to us.
DAVID
It’s very important to me too, sweetheart. That’s why you might find some of those placings strange.
CATHERINE
(Taking another look) Uh.. (DAVID and CATHERINE look at one another) Okay.
DAVID
Catherine, what did you mean this morning? Did I think you were doing the right thing?
CATHERINE
Oh it was something that Mum said yesterday. She said that you were in awe of me.
DAVID
Well there’s no mystery about that. You’re a very clever woman.
CATHERINE
Dad, this is hard for me to put into words.. but.. have I lived up to.. what you’ve expected of me?
(PETER enters from the verandah carrying a book)
PETER
David! I thought I’d better return this book.
(DAVID and CATHERINE look at each other)
PETER
Oh I’m sorry. I haven’t interrupted anything, have I?
(CATHERINE exits to the verandah in exasperation)
DAVID
Yes Peter, you were saying? You had to return this book. Did you enjoy it?
PETER
Very much so.
DAVID
Where’ve you been for the last few hours?
PETER
In the garden.
DAVID
Oh.
PETER
I’ll tell you something I saw that was interesting. Caitlin feeding the cat. I’ve never seen anyone have such a long serious chat with an animal. I mean, there couldn’t have been a greater difference. It was the gulf of a species, yet they were smiling at each other and looking at the kittens and sharing this intimate understanding. As if commenting on a job well done. I tell you, the only way men will ever understand women is by falling pregnant.
DAVID
Mmm.
PETER
Are you alright?
DAVID
No, I’m not actually. I’m feeling very tired.
PETER
Maybe you should go to bed?
DAVID
Yes, maybe I should. You know that book that you’ve got, “The Fire In The Snow”? Do you know the character I think about the most? Oates. Captain Lawrence Oates. Going out into the snow rather than burden his friends. Sometimes when I walk into a room of people and turn it to silence, or catch a look of hurt in Cait’s eyes when she looks at me. I often think that maybe I should .. go out into the snow.
PETER
You haven’t thought of doing anything ..
DAVID
It had occurred to me. Yes.
PETER
What stopped you?
DAVID
It would have hurt the people I love the most. I just don’t know why my life had to be a signpost. I would have preferred to be a path.
PETER
Why don’t you go and get some rest? (DAVID gets up to go upstairs) You always talk in terms of a journey.
DAVID
(Stops on the stairs) Well it’s true. Life has no destination, just scenic paths. I’ve been a very blessed pedestrian. I couldn’t have wished for a better journey. I’ll see you in the morning, mate. (He exits)
PETER
I hope I do, David. I hope I do.
(Blackout)
Scene Seven
(CLIFF is seated. DAWN is at the base of the stairs as THERESE brings in a parcel)
THERESE
Coast clear?
DAWN
He’s still asleep. Cliff, we’ll get you to sign this too.
(THERESE places the parcel on the counter and unwraps it to reveal a large book)
DAWN
We had a good look around this arvo, and this really caught our eye. It’s a pictorial book of animals. Dad’s always loved African animals.
CLIFF
Strewth! He wouldn’t want to fall asleep when he reads it. He’ll die of concussion. (He flips through the pages)
THERESE
What are you doing?
CLIFF
I just want to see if it’s got those big monkeys with the pink arses.
THERESE
Look, don’t trace your ancestry. Just sign it, will you?
CLIFF
(As he signs his name) How much did this cost?
THERESE
What do you mean how much did this cost?
DAWN
We bought this out of our savings.
THERESE
We don’t want a penny from you.
CLIFF
Alright. Don’t jump down my throat!
THERESE
(Brings out a paper bag) Wrapping paper, ribbons. Let’s get to it.
DAWN
Right.
(CATHERINE comes down the stairs as the girls commence wrapping)
DAWN
Cath, did you see what we got Dad?
CATHERINE
That’s beautiful.
THERESE
He’s always loved African animals.
CATHERINE
I didn’t know that.
THERESE
He used to say to Mum that one place he’d love to visit would be Africa.
CATHERINE
Listen, Tez. There’s something I have to tell you. I was talking to Dad this afternoon about place settings for tomorrow night and .. we’re setting a place for Mr Schelling.
THERESE
But .. I thought this was strictly family?
CATHERINE
So did I.
THERESE
Does Mum know?
CATHERINE
I don’t know. I think so.
THERESE
What the hell is going on?
CATHERINE
But that’s not the end of it .. We’re setting a place for .. Paul.
(The girls look at one another in silence)
THERESE
I don’t believe you.
(CATHERINE shows THERESE the paper handed to her by David)
CATHERINE
Just next to him, on his right hand side.
THERESE
I don’t believe it. (She moves to exit)
CLIFF
(He moves to follow her) Therese?
THERESE
No .. please. (She exits)
CATHERINE
(To DAWN) Are you alright?
(DAWN does not answer. CATHERINE follows THERESE. CLIFF moves to DAWN)
CLIFF
What’s up?
DAWN
Nothing .. How much has Tez told you?
CLIFF
What, about Paul?
DAWN
I thought it was all forgotten.
CLIFF
Come on, Dawn. Tell me.
DAWN
Where do I start? When Tez and I were five and we lived on the farm, there was this mango tree. We used to climb it and hang upside down and get a skinful of mangoes when they were in season. That was up until I fell out of the tree and almost broke my arm. We were forbidden by Dad to go climbing. Expressly forbidden. The summer of 53, we thought it was a good day to break the rules. So we went down to the tree. Paul was with us. He would have been three at the time. Tez climbed up first. I can still see her up there. Paul was on the ground, calling to come up and join her.
So, we helped him up, sat him on one of the safe limbs, and I scrambled up and sat with him. And then .. Tez and I were skylarking about .. Paul reached out, lost his balance and .. fell. It wasn’t a long fall, but it was enough to break his neck. I remember after the funeral, Dad took us aside and tore strips off us. Telling us we should have been more careful. I can still feel the chill just thinking about it. We took his only son away from him. Do you know how much Paul meant to him?
CLIFF
C’mon. Don’t work yourself up. It’s just a chair at a table.
DAWN
It’s more than that. We’re going to get our noses rubbed in it again. Fifteen years on, he still wants to punish us. We still have to be punished!
(Blackout)
End of Act One.
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