Scene 9b, lilies a bit of a helping hand

SCENE
(Only a few moments after James exits Anne’s garden)

In Sylvia’s driveway we see Daniel Lavery’s delivery truck. He has just delivered a package to the Breslyn home. Seeing Anne at work in her garden, Daniel walks over to her.
By now she has resumed her efforts and is frantically turning the hard soil. She is unaware that Daniel is walking over. He watches her for a few seconds, observing her technique, or lack of. Finally he says.)

Daniel: You’re using the wrong tool for that altogether Miss.
(He paces back and forth in front of her gate, surveying the entire production she has going on)

Anne: (Continuing to work and keeping her head down, working all the harder. As she speaks, she is almost breathless)
I am sure I am Mr. Lavery

Daniel: (Nonchalantly)
You look like you could use some help. Don’t suppose you’ve done this before.

Anne: (Finally flabbergasted she stops working and addresses him directly)
No…no… you’re right, I have never done this before, and yes I could use some help. But I don’t suppose you are going to offer it! No I imagine a man like you may quite enjoy watching me struggle in my garden for the sake of providing his friends with a comical tale later on this evening.
(He stares at her with a look of intrigue)
WHAT are you looking at?

(With that he walks through the gate takes the tool she is working with out of her hand and goes to a pile of tools set out, and exchanges it for a shovel. He takes off his jacket and hat, drapes them over the gate. Daniel walks back over to where Anne was working; he starts to cultivate the soil. He says nothing, knowing she is watching him intently, learning.)

Finally he says

Daniel: You’ve got to turn it first, so it can breath. The garden’s only as good as the earth it’s in.
(He stops working a moment looks up at her)
Course, you probably already know that, being a botanist and all.
(She picks up her own shovel and begins to work along side him)
That’s it really get in there! That a girl!
(He slaps her arm) keep at it…

He puts his coat and cap back on.

Anne: What do I do when I’m done with this part?

Daniel: I’ll come by Next week and show you
(He walks out of the gate)

Anne: Next week?

Daniel: It’ll take you this long to do all this believe me. (He starts to walk down the street)
Oh and thanks!

Anne: For what?

Daniel: My brothers always love a good story. I’m sure they’re going to love this! You really are turning out o be quite a spirited one Miss Anne.
(As he walks away she scowls at him and shakes her head, and plunges her shovel deeply into the earth.)

(SCENE)

Image: Sweet briar----Poetry...I wound to heal.
(The Language of Flowers C. 1968)

Scene 9a, lilies. Anne begins her garden

April 3rd 1930. The lawn in front of Anne’s house is strewn with an array of garden tools. Anne is working with a shovel, wildly hacking away at the deeply rooted crabgrass beneath her feet. She is attempting to turn the soil. She is dirty, sweaty and determined to make a garden bed. It is midday and warm now. Her work has thus far been slow-going and quite pathetic. Anne has just struck yet another rock as James walks up the gate in front of her house. It is Saturday and neither is working at the conservatory. James is well dressed and walks leisurely up the path toward Anne. Anne heaves the rock across the lawn near a pile

James: Anne is that really you? My goodness, you really are giving it a go aren’t you?
(He surveys her work and is silently amused at her seemingly fruitless efforts)

Anne: (Not expecting a visit from James she tries her best to seem at ease and alert. She is not used to being seen in the state she is in.)
Why James, What a pleasant surprise!
(She compensates in sweetness for what she feels she lacks in presentability.)

James: (Motioning to the gate)
May I?

Anne: Of course, James come in. Good to see you…
(She pulls her hand from her glove extends it to James)

James: (He takes it in his own hand. As he takes it, he feels the dust, rough skin, and clamminess of her hands. He shakes her hand but afterwards takes a kerchief from his pocket and wipes the filth from it.)
Well, You certainly look like you have been keeping busy.
(He is referring to her appearance, not the progress she has made.)
What on earth are you working on?

Anne: (Casually)
I thought that this year I would plant a vegetable garden. A lofty aspiration I know, but if any man can do it so can I.

James: Well, I expect it will be an... enriching experience for you Anne. I must admit I would have never seen this coming. No matter how assertive you may have come across. I never had you pinned for one of them Anne. Though it makes no difference to me, I assure you.

Anne: (Lost)
I’m not sure I understand James.

James: Oh, it’s all the rage these days Anne. Winning the right to vote, all this about wanting to work like men, wearing abbreviated bathing suits and so forth…
Like I said Anne, it makes no difference to me, so long as you don’t go parading around the city making a spectacle of yourself demanding rights to birth control and holding signs like the rest of the suffragists. I’m not sure the society could employ someone on staff with that kind of, eh, public persona.
(Although he chuckles, he is serious)

(The notion of her seeming like a suffragist never crossed Anne’s mind. She is not offended by this notion, and therefore leaves him uncorrected. Rather, she changes the subject)

Anne: Won’t you join me for a moment in the shade?

James: I suppose that would be nice. Though I don’t want to keep you from your work for too long Anne.
(They walk to the gazebo where there is shade and a place to sit.)
I must confess Anne, I wish this were a social visit.
However, I came on behalf of Mr. Gregory. You remember Edwin Gregory don’t you? He is on the board of directors for the Boston conservatory. If you recall, he is quite a generous donor, and a big fan of yours, if I remember correctly Anne.
At any rate he has taken quite an interest in your collection, specifically. He has already made a handsome offer and being the broker I would naturally take ten percent. You of course…

Anne: My collection is not for sale James.

James: Yes I know Anne, but if you would only consider…

Anne: What is there to consider. My father gave them to me you know that! You have a lot of nerve even asking me.

James: Mr. Gregory has been most generous to the conservatory, I would hate to disappoint him. It would behoove you to consider the offer. Your current position at the conservatory isn’t what it was before…need I remind you?

Anne: Are you threatening me James!

James: You don’t think I know do you?

Anne: What are you talking about?

James: You may want to be careful you’re not burning any bridges here. It’s really only a matter of time Anne.

Anne: A matter of time until what?

James: Do you know what’s being said? They’re saying this thing is blacker than it seems! The unemployment rate is supposed to rise another five percent by season’s end. Commerce and trade are down, and will continue fall. Industries are decreasing production at rapid rates and some are closing their doors permanently!
(He chuckles)
And you? You’re digging in the dirt, planting a garden like a field hand or a common gardener.
(Beat)
No Miss Hibbert,I suppose I don’t have to inform you of these desperate times. You would do well to remember your place here Anne. A single woman living alone like some brazen feminist.
Relying on her inheritances. Most of which was lost in the stock market I assume?
(Her haughty eyes lower)
You’ve become accustomed to living well outside your means, and your hardly self sufficient. I can’t imagine your maintanance job at the conservatory covers any more than a few bills and a meals or two each day.
(He slicks his hair back and composes himself. He changes his tone a bit.)
That being said Anne; I would strongly urge you, as a…friend. Sell your collection. Here is the offering price, and my card. Think on it Anne. If you should change your mind, you know where to find me.

(James walks down the pathway, out the gate and down the street.)
SCENE

Scene 8, lilies, Get off your hump!

Anne has gone over to Sylvia’s for dinner. Sylvia has a small home and it is in no way extravagant. Everything she owns has a function and serves a purpose. There is a warmth about the home; lace curtains and a fire in the fireplace. The clean fresh smell of soap lingers in the air. It is a well tended home.
Sylvia and her husband Neil have seven children. It has been a lively evening for Anne. The meal is finished. Neil has passed out on the couch in the livingroom, he snores softly. Having finished their evening chores, the children are now engaged in various games and projects of their own throughout the house.
Sylvia and Anne are washing dishes together in the kitchen.


Anne: I can’t believe you do this everyday
(While drying a dish)

Sylvia: (A cigarette hangs out of the side of her mouth as she washes)
Morning, noon and night make no mistake.
(Hands Anne another dish)

Anne: Who taught you how to do this? All this, cooking, cleaning and having babies?

Sylvia: My mother taught me how to run house, cooking and cleaning. Neil is the one taught me how to have babies. (They share a laugh)

Anne: Do you plan to have more?

Sylvia: We don’t do much planning love. We do or we don’t. What about you? Do you think you’ll have kids one day?

Anne: I’m just waiting for the right person.
(Sylvia starts to laugh)
What are you laughing at?

Sylvia: Oh, don’t bother with all that! Twenty years later they all start looking and smelling the same. Telling the same jokes over and over. Then one day they quit trying all together
(She glances in at Neil, passed out in the other room)
Anyway don’t bother with all that.
(Sylvia begins to drift in thought)

Anne: What was your mother like?

Sylvia: She was true. Born the Tail end of the Great hunger back in Ireland. Those were hard working hearty folks who survived by and loved the land in spite of the hard times.

Anne: It just doesn’t see fair to me. I’m just waiting for all this to be set right so we can all get back to the way things were.

Sylvia: (Chuckling) Waiting! Waiting for fairness is like being thirsty and laying down outside waiting for the rain to fall. No dear there’ll be no more of that for you!

Anne: No more of what?

Sylvia: (An air of irritation)
The leisurely life you’ve become so accustomed to is over. Those late nights of pushing your pretty flowers around in your greenhouse are a thing of the past.
So, you read a few books with big words. You drew some fine pictures and made notes about this and that and they gave you a piece of paper saying that you were one of their own. But look at you, you can recite plant names in Latin but you can’t dig a goddamn hole to save your life. To save your life Anne that’s what this is. You think you’re the first person to ache after a hard day’s work?

Anne: I’m trying my best Sylvia.

Sylvia: (Now with a mocking tone)
Oh! You’re best huh? Well excuse me for not jumping to my feet and praising your effort. But from where I’m standing, it seems you’re coming up short and if you don’t do something soon, it’s really gonna be the shits for you!
Now, get off your hump girl and get to it!

Scene 7a and 7b, lilies Sylvia

SCENE 7a


Anne is walking home from the party that she has served that evening. Her apron is dirty, her hands are worn and raw from washing dishes and her hair a disheveled mess. She wears a look of defeat and humiliation. She walks slowly down the street. As she passes her neighbor’s house, there is a woman on her porch watching Anne. It is the same woman who took notice of her a few nights ago. She is rocking steadily in a wooden rocking chair. She lights a cigarette. The light from the amber flame illuminates her face revealing a strong; fair completed woman in her early forties. She is an able bodied with wise and watchful eyes that squint as she inhales deep hungry drags from her cigarette.
As Anne passes directly in front of her house, the lady yells to Anne from her porch.


Sylvia: (WIth an Irish accent)
Do you have to make it so obvious that you’re not used to actual work?

(Anne freezes terrified that the wretched voice is yelling out to her. She looks down and walks at a faster pace)

(Meanwhile, on Sylvia’s porch)

Sylvia: (Mumbling to herself)
Jesus, you think I’d be shouting so loud if I was talking’ to myself?
(Beat)
(To herself)
Oh Sylv. You’ve done it this time. Well…
(She rises out of her rocker on the porch, goes inside, comes out with a sack and heads down the path to the street)

(SCENE 7b)

Inside Anne’s house. Anne sits down alone at her table and starts to cry. The day proved to be the most challenging yet. The shock of hearing the cruel things that were said about her at the party have broken her spirit.

There is a knock at the door. Anne gets up to see who it is. Seeing that it is that neighbor who yelled from her porch, she ducks back and does not answer.
Another knock. Followed by another one.

Sylvia: I know you’re in there. No use pretending miss. (Anne freezes stands still as time passes. She goes quietly to the door.) That’s it now open it (Anne does as she is told)

(There stands Sylvia Breslyn, bright eyed and true. For a moment they stand there in silence, taking turns looking at each other, waiting for the other one to speak the silence.)

Sylvia: Sylvia is my name. Anne is yours. I know because I asked the neighbor. (Silence…. Finally, tight lipped and unappologeticly.) I Don’t see much sense in pretending you don’t know someone’s name when you do. It’s like a lie. I don’t lie. You ought to know that straight off I suppose.
Anyway, I imagine you should invite me in.
(Anne is too tired to show any social graces much less protest. She swings the door wide open and in marches Sylvia, who sits herself down at the very same table Anne was at when the scene began.)

(Silence)

(Anne walks over to the table, takes a deep breath, plops herself down next to Sylvia)

Sylvia: No use moping on an empty stomach.
(She pulls out a piece of cheese and some soda bread from her bag. She hands it to Anne.)
I was thinking. It's not good for person to be alone. You come to my house tomorrow night, after you get home from work. The food is for shite, but there's usually lots of it.

Anne: (Eating the bread. With tears in her eyes.)
Thank you Sylvia.
(Sylvia understands, nodding back to Anne with great warm sympathy in her eyes. She pats Anne’s shoulder as Anne begins to eat. Sylvia reaches into her bag again. She pulls out a flask of whiskey and offers some to Anne.)
None for me thanks.
(Sylvia looks as though she doesn’t understand)
Haven’t you heard of temperance?

Sylvia: Heard of temperance? I should introduce you to my husband; he’s got a terrible temperance. That’s why I keep him good and drunk
(She gets a serious look from Anne)
Yes dear I’ve heard of temperance, but I myself know too many crooked men who are dry, and a good number of honest hardworking drunkards.
(She raises her flask)
So here’s to them, and to you.
(She pours a bit of whiskey into a glass that sits on the table in front of Anne)
I won’t tell.
(Beat)
Well it was nice to have made your acquaintance Anne.
(As she rises Anne rises with her, following her to the door)

Anne: (Almost sorry to see her go. She musters up some manners)
Sylvia, it was so nice of you to… I really appreciate…
(on the verge of tears)

Sylvia: I know dear.
(Pats her shoulder again, starts to walk out, then turning.)
Remember that you’re the one who gets to decide.

Anne: Decide what?

Sylvia: Who you are, and who you are to become in all this. Nobody else has any say so in that love…

(As we watch Sylvia walk down the path to the street she passes Anne’s perennial garden. The lilacs are in full bloom; beneath them are a bed of oak leaf geraniums and a handsome patch of Jacob’s ladder.
Anne watches Sylvia walk down the path. From their short interaction, Anne has gathered that Sylvia is a woman of purpose. She does and says what she means to; no more, no less. Anne takes a deep breath in realizing this, as if to take it in and receive the gesture as a true act of kindness.
She closes the door, walks in to the table, looks down at the large shot waiting for her, grins, and takes it. She leans forward, blows out the candle on the table. The smoke rises in the dim light remaining in the room. Outside the dining room window stands an azalea bush whose flowers have faded and died.)

(SCENE)

Scene 6a,6b,6c, Considering lilies

Scene 6a

(The morning comes again. Anne rises and dresses in her work clothes. She arranges her hair neatly in a classic style. She has a cup of tea and some toast. She is alone in her house, sitting at her large table. The clock reads a quarter to seven. She rises and returns her dishes to the sink in the kitchen. Puts on her coat and grabs her apron hanging by the door from the night before. She wraps a scarf around her neck, opens the door walks into the cold morning.
She has arrived on time to find a list that James has left for her. There is a pile of linens, and dishes being set out by people she has never seen before. She begins her first task, washing all the windows in the dinning hall, inside and out. Next she is to weed and turn the soil of the front walk. Then she plants the open spaces and window boxes with annuals to provide color. Next she hauls a flat of sphagnum moss in, and top-dresses the large palms throughout the conservatory. Finally, she polishes the serving wear and arranges flowers for the table on which the food will be placed.
By a quarter to five James walks in to inspect the place and make final touches.)

James: Well Anne, I suppose all is ready by now, hmmm?

Anne: Yes James…Mr. Watkins. Unless you see something more to be done, I need only light the candles.

James: Not yet, not yet. They should be lit just before the guests arrive. (Surveying the room) This will do Miss Hibbert. (Preoccupied) Well, you ought to refresh yourself before the guests arrive. You’ll find basic amenities in the lavatory and a fresh apron in the kitchen. I will meet you here in half an hour.

Anne: Yes sir. (He walks up stairs and she into the kitchen)


(SCENE)





Scene 6b


Later that evening:

The guests have arrived and are mingling and drinking. The conversation, like last time revolving little around the matter of botanicals and more around society gossip, and politics.
Anne is busy serving the drinks. She overhears pieces of people’s conversations as she passes. Conversations that begin like:
“The trouble with Soup kitchens is that it only encourages them…nothing like the pangs of an empty stomach to urge a man to find a job for himself…” She pays little mind until she sees two women from across the room pointing at her. She looks over at them and they quickly look away, but seem deep in conversation.
A little later Anne brings out some more hourderves. As she passes a group of women and men gathered in a circle she realizes that their discussion revolves around Anne herself.

Woman 1:I heard she practically begged not to be let go Some nod or gasp, some shake their heads. One man,

Man 1: No, place for a woman…

Man 2: (Drunk) I wonder if we should send around a basket of collection…

Woman 2:Imagine, going from teaching seminars to serving!

A man in the group takes notice of Anne. He cuts the woman off.

Man 1:Ah yes, lovely, more punch, I think I will miss, I think I will. (He raises his glass and she fills it)

Anne pretends not to have heard and returns to the kitchen. The rest of the night however she is suddenly very aware of her place. She notices glances and how people whisper as she walks past. She feels as though she is no longer on of them.

(SCENE)

Scene 6c


As the night tapers down and people begin to shuffle out Anne begins to clear the hourderves table off. People are only drinking now and the ones left are obviously quite intoxicated.
After carrying in a large armful of empty trays, Anne returns to the table for another load to find James waiting for her. He has been drinking quite a bit. Though he is not clumsy, he is uncharacteristically unguarded, and eager to speak freely.

James: Good evening Anne.
(He walks toward her)
Well I see you have proven me wrong.

Anne: How’s that?

James: You see it was my father’s idea to have you set up this evening. I was against it you see. I had no idea you were even capable of, well, Woman’s work
(As if to appear sympathetic)
Awe, it’s nothing against you Miss Hibbert.
I always love to hear your charming botanical rhetoric.
I have to remind myself, Anne that it is rhetoric, just rhetoric. That is, charm disguised as intellect.
(She shifts, obviously uncomfortable)
Have I discovered your secret?
(He moves in closer, He seems to be misreading her discomfort for attraction)
Hmm? Is that your, claim to fame? As a matter of fact, if it weren’t for your poetic nature, I imagine you to be quite, helpless…
(He walks behind her moving in, close to her. Close enough to smell her hair.)
Miss Hibbert, in times such as these a person must be willing to commit themselves to a certain level of compromise if they mean to get by.
(Beat)
I suppose what I’m saying is that I’m glad to see you have something more to offer than just your charms.
(It was meant to be a compliment but delivered almost patronizingly)
You have proven me wrong this evening Anne and I like it. Well done!
(SCENE)

Scenc 5b, lilies

Daniel gets out of the truck that has just arrived. He carries a box, presumably for James. As he walks up the path to the employee entrance, he sees Anne through the window. He pauses, then proceeds to walk up the path.

While Anne is in mid thought the door swings open, and a man carrying a box, walks in


Daniel: (Taking one look at Anne)
Well, well, this is a surprise.

Anne: What are you talking about I work here. I’m here every day.

Daniel: That’s not the surprise I’m referring to.

Anne: What are you referring to then Mr. Lavery?

Daniel: Our last few meetings you didn’t look so….
(Searching for the right word)
…common.
(Looking her up and down)

Anne: (Offended, wanting to remind him of her position)
Well, need I remind you Mr. Lavery that we have never had a “meeting”. A meeting suggests that two people have come together or assembled in order to associate with one another.

Daniel: (Teasing)
Is that disappointment I hear in your voice?
He walks toward her, leans on the counter while she dries her dish and cup)

Anne: Relief.
(Beat)
I suppose you’re here with a box full of Whiskey for James?

Daniel: (Suddenly aware that she is speaking loudly, he looks around and motions for her to keep it down.)
Hey, speak easy.

Anne: (mockingly as if playing along)
Oh yes, we must whisper so nobody will hear us. What do you call it? Moonshine or White lightning? Hooch?

Daniel: Ah, so you’re with us then?

Anne: With you? What, in your cause to keep a drink in the hand of a workingman?

Daniel: Yeah, why not?

Anne: In favor of keeping husbands and fathers well liquored while wives are left to wonder where the money for food has gone?
Pockets of liquor distillers and runners, such as yourself, full. While the tax dollars of citizens, like me, are spent on prison expenses for men who have committed crimes during their drunken fits? No Mr. Lavery I am very much in favor of this noble experiment.

Daniel: Noble? You know, I deliver more of this stuff to Cops, Politicians, Lawyers and Judges? The same folks sending guys like me to prison.

Anne: I doubt it.

Daniel: (Authoritatively)
You can choose to doubt and believe whatever you like, but it doesn’t make it so.

Anne: Where did you hear that?

Daniel: (Proudly) I made it up.

Anne: That’s what I thought.
(The Sound of footsteps is hard down the hall. Without a word, they both get back to what they were doing just as James walks in.)

James: (Thrilled to see his “shipment” has arrived)
Mr. Lavery, Good to see you as usual. I see my delivery has arrived.

Daniel: Yes sir. Sorry for the delay this week.
(Quietly)
Been getting a bit of trouble at the Canadian boarders.

James: (Not wanting to go into details in front of Anne)
Yes, yes, well here we are Mr. Lavery, safe and sound. (
Getting to the point)
Now what do I owe you?

Daniel: 25 Sir.

James: All right then.
(Handing him $25.00)
If you don’t mind taking it to the normal spot for me, thank you.

Daniel: Sure.
(Picks up the box, carries it out of the room to a closet down the hall.)

James: I trust all is well here Miss Hibbert, and that I have your eh, confidence in this arrangement?
(Refering to the arangement with Daniel which she has just wittnessed)
Oh and Anne?
(Daniel returns to the room and begins gathering his things.
We have an event tomorrow. I would very much like for you to be there to help. Would you mind?

Anne: Of course. I didn’t know we had any events planned. I’ll have to choose specimens, and of course my clothes…what is the theme?

James: (Making a sorry look at Anne)
Oh dear, I meant, would you attend the event to help serve. I should’ve made myself clearer. It’s a donation fund-raiser. Guests will be touring the premises, as they are.
We will be serving punch coffee and hourderves. I have hired a cook, but we’ll need someone to serve the drinks. You will be compensated for your service of course. (Suddenly aware that Daniel is still in the room to see this exchange.)

Anne: (In need of money she swallows her pride)
No Mr. Watkins. I would be glad to help.

James: That a girl!
(Starts to leave. Remembering something her turns to her)
Oh, and do see that the floor of the main entrance is properly polished tonight before you leave. I don’t mind paying extra for your time if it means things will look presentable. It’s important it’s up to snuff tomorrow.
(Daniel leaves, as does James. Anne is left in the kitchen alone.)

As dusk arrives later that evening, Anne is still working. On her hands and knees, she is on the floor in the entryway scrubbing the tiles. By the time she finishes it is dark outside, she walks out of the conservatory, harried and exhausted.)

Scene 5a, lilies, questioning Annes new role

The next day, Anne enters through the back door. James hands her a list of tasks. It is lofty and long, more daunting than the day before. She gets to work, crossing things off as she goes. Again, by 5:00pm she has only crossed off ¾ of the tasks on her list.

As she walks down the street to her home, a woman who lives across the street takes notice of her as she is having an evening smoke on her porch. The woman scowls at Anne; she seems to be examining her.
Upon arriving home, Anne washes her dirty apron in the basin and hangs it to dry for the next day.
She soaks in the tub and wears a look of exhaustion.
Dressing for bed, she then budgets her finances by candlelight. Working the same set of numbers several time over, just to be sure.

At work the next day, it is lunchtime. Anne is sitting down in the employee quarters. She is exhausted. She has been working very hard and longer hours than she is used to and is making far less money then she was before. She quietly sits with her feet up. She is eating some bread and cheese. James walks in. She puts her feet down. He sits across from her.)

James: You look exhausted.
(Beat)
Tell me the truth Anne is this too much for you?

Anne: (Meekly) No.

James: It’s just… (He hesitates)

Anne: What?

James: Well, I don’t want to be coarse with you Anne. It’s just…. Things are falling behind. Tasks are being left undone or just taking too long. At this rate there is no way things can remain up to par. And I need to know…. Anne…Is this too much for you, because if it is, there are other…alternatives, you see, other people…

Anne: I’m just getting the hang of things that’s all. Yes of course I am able to keep up I’m just learning.
(Beat)
You do trust I am able don’t you?
(She looks at him, giving him a questioning look.)

James: (Eager to have the upper hand)
I hope so Miss Hibbert.
(He gets up)
I hope so. Look on the bright side Anne, my father is one of your strongest advocates…and you have not yet exhausted his patience.
(Chuckling)
Good day.
(He exits the Employee room.)

(Anne hangs her exhausted head in discouragement. How can she work harder? Didn’t they have four people tending to Conservatory maintenance before? How can she be expected to do the job of four people? How can he expect this of her? She goes over to the sink and washes her teacup.)

Outside, a truck pulls up.

Scene 4 lilies, Annes first day of Maintenance work

Anne’s first day on the job as a maintenance worker. She is dressed in “common attire” unlike the stylish outfits she normally wears; she has dressed for labor. She walks up the front steps as she normally does. Enters into the main entrance, looking for James. She spots him across the room, standing with a patron discussing a matter. He sees her too. She starts to walk over to him. Seeing this, he holds up his index finger to her as if to say ‘I will be right with you’ She waits.
He finally walks over to her. Looks her up and down.

James: All right Miss Hibbert.
(Looks at the clock)
I’m glad to see you’re here on time. Come with me.
(He leads her through the fern room, and into the employee quarters.)
Here is an apron I expect you to wear it each day, washed and clean upon your arrival of course. Today you will be tending to the fern room. Remove all the decaying leaves, check each plant for irregularities or rot, see that the humidity is no less then 60% and the temperature no more than 85 deg Fahrenheit.
Next you will sweep the floors and mop the grounds throughout. Notice that the grout here is beginning to gather some minerals, see that you use a vinegar solution of 3:4 no more, is that clear?

Anne: Yes James.

James: (Quietly)
I’m afraid I must say Miss Hibbert, since our work conditions have changed the way they have. I think appropriate that you refer to me as Mr. Watkins. I would hate for our patrons to feel as though we have become lax. I think it wise to maintain a sense of protocol, don’t you? (Anne nods, a bit distracted as she is trying to remember all she is to do)
Oh and from now on, Miss Hibbert, please enter through the back door.
Well good, good. That should keep you occupied until lunch. I will be in my office. Check in when you’re done.

(Anne begins. She spends the day Removing dead leaves, checking temperatures and humidity rates. She sweeps,mops and scrubs the floors. She gets to the end of her list of tasks by 4:30pm. James comes down.)

James: Well, you certainly are trying, Miss Hibbert.
(He is referring to the fact that she has not even finished in 8 hours in what he had expected her to accomplish by lunchtime) Well, I’m off. Good night Miss Hibbert. I trust you wont fail to lock up.

Anne: Goodnight Mr. Watkins. (Still on her hands and knees scrubbing the floor)



(SCENE)

Scene 3b lilies: Let go

(After the plesantries with Mr Gregory, the attention is back on Anne)

Mr. Watkins: Anne, come, come. Sit down and make yourself comfortable. I don’t suppose you would care for some tea this afternoon?

Anne: No thank you (She sits)

Mr. Watkins: Uhh, you see.
(He is not eager to begin, infact, he would rather not begin at all)
Anne, I suppose there is no simple way to say what I mean to...
You see, the conservatory has been suffering. Our donation fund is down by 43%. I’m afraid that these times call for drastic measures.
(He lets that sit for a moment)
We have let go of our maintenance staff Anne.
(He wonders if all this is coming through to her)
Now Anne, I don’t intend to let go of you…yet. But, you must realize…
(Knowing his delivery must be tender)
There is no easy way to put this Anne, We must begin asking more of you but we will only be able to pay you 50% of what you are now receiving and we will need to add to your work load due to the employee cut backs.

Anne: Will I still be able to work in the Conservatory?

Mr. Watkins: (Joyfully clasping his hands together)
Oh heavens yes. However, rather than giving lectures we would like you to begin... eh,resuming the work of those whom we can no longer employ.

Anne: What will that consist of?

Mr. Watkins: (Downplaying) Oh, Watering, weeding the entryway, maintenance, Dusting of the tropicals and assisting in various other tasks.
(Anne is thinking. She does not yet realize that she has no choice in the matter.)

(James is bothered by the round about approach of his father.)

James: Of course if you don’t think you’re cut out for that kind of work, we can ask someone else Miss Hibbert.

Mr. Watkins: James!
(Beat)
We don’t want to loose you Anne, please consider our offer. Take as much time as you need to consider our offer.

Anne: I don’t need anymore time Mr. Watkins. I understand and I am grateful, I accept.

James: (eager to solidify her position)
Good, I shall plan for the transition.
(Meaning firing the other employees)
Meanwhile, Anne I thank you for coming in.
(He walks over to the door, opening it, as if sending he a signal to leave)
I trust that you will be here bright and early tomorrow morning by 7:30 sharp, to begin your new tasks.

Anne: Yes James. (She turns to Charles, who looks at her with a helpless look) Thank you Mr. Watkins.

James: (As she is walking out the door)
Your welcome Miss Hibbert.
(He closes it behind her)



(Scene)

Scene 3a lilies: Let go/Mr. Gregory

The Horticultural Societies board of directors office. Charles, James and two other members are in the office at present.
Another gentleman also accompanies them. His name is Edwin Gregory. Although he resides in Boston, he gives generously to the society and is well respected by the board.
March 16th 1930. Almost six months after the stock market crash. The economy is not “getting better” as President Hoover predicted.
The upper/middle class are by no means struggling quite yet. However, social institutions, such as the Horticultural society, have not been receiving the donations that they need in order to keep a full staff. Rather than letting specialists like Anne go, their plan is to offer her less money and increase her responsibilities to include more menial jobs like cleaning bathrooms, watering, and emptying garbage’s.
Charles and James have requested that Anne come to the office to discuss the matter.
Anne enters the room in silence. All the gentlemen stand to greet her. Despite her discomfort, not knowing why she has been called in, she is bright eyed and wears a warm smile.
Mr. Charles Watkins is aware of Anne’s discomfort. He breaks the silence with a friendly greeting.

Mr. Watkins: Anne so good of you to come!
(As if she had a choice. Motioning to Mr. Gregory)
Anne, I’d like you to meet Mr. Edwin Gregory.

Mr. Gregory: How do you do Miss Hibbert?
(He comes over to her, and warmly takes her hand)

Anne: How do you do Mr. Gregory.

Mr. Watkins: Mr. Gregory has been a society member here in Seattle for years. Though he currently resides in Massachusetts, and is on the board of directors of the Boston chapter, he still finds time to visit when he is here on business.
He was just telling us how impressed he was with your work in the fern and woodland display room.

Anne: How kind. Thank you Mr. Gregory.

Mr. Gregory: I must admit that I am eagerly awaiting the bloom of the malodorous Amorphophallus titanum, or Corpse flower, to emerge.
My understanding Miss Hibbert, is that its fragrance is so strong that the few times it has bloomed in a controlled environment, it’s been kept behind glass so as not to offend patrons with its odor.

Anne: That is my understanding as Well Mr. Gregory. In fact its smell has been known to be so strong, some have even become ill simply by being in the same room as the flower. I imagine that we will have to take precautions so as not to offend our patrons.

Mr. Gregory: That will be a magnificant sight, indeed! I have heard that it's flower can be up to 6 feet tall! Can you imagine? Oh, and the stench, Anne!
When do you expect it to bloom?

Anne: It’s difficult to say. Judging by its age, I anticipate that sometime this year we should see him.
Or should I say, smell him.
(She laughs, the others join in)

Mr. Gregory: I beg your pardon? “He”?

James: (With an undermining tone, laughing at Anne.)
Yes, yes, uh, Anne has been known for giving many of the plants names. Zeus I believe she has named the malodorous specimen. Am I right Anne? Silliness really. In fact she’s becoming known as quite the bohemian.

Mr. Gregory: (Puts on his Glasses)
Fascinating.
(He is now looking at her as if she herself is a specimen) How do you come up with the names, I wonder.

Anne: Personality, I suppose.

Mr. Gregory: I beg your pardon?

Anne: I feel botanicals all behave differently. Growth habits, temperaments, reproductive patterns and yes Mr. Gregory, the odors they omit. I suppose it is silliness. (Looking at James)
Perhaps I have been left alone in the company of botanicals for far too long. Though I assure you, we are all of sound mind here at the Conservatory.
(James hangs his head as if he is embarrassed that Anne has said too much)

Mr. Gregory: (Laughing. On the contrary, he is charmed by Anne) I must confess that at times I have found myself thinking the same way about the plants in my greenhouse back home. What relief, to know that a competent, educated professional such as yourself thinks this way also.
(Pulls out his check book writes a check and hands it to James)
I believe that this sum should cover the cost for the construction of the enclosed area Miss. Hibbert will need to display… ‘Zeus’ is his name?
(He looks at Anne, and winks at her)

James: Mr. Gregory Thank you.

Mr. Gregory: You have Miss Hibbert to thank my dear boy. (He walks toward Miss Hibbert and takes her hand. Looks her in the eyes and says)
An honor, Miss Hibbert to have met the lovely face behind such a handsome collection of botanicals. I am familiar with you fathers work as well. You certainly are a chip off the old block, as they say, eh? I wish you the best Miss.
(As he puts on his coat and hat)
Gentlemen I thank you.

James: (Quickly, quietly and aside to Anne)
Well played!


Mr. Gregory: (He begins to walk out the door he turns to James and says)
You have my card don’t you? (James walks over to him, and whispers something as he sees him out.)

(Finally, all the attention is back on Anne)

To continue, go to Scene 3b

Considering lilies, Scene 2

Our scene is set in January of 1930 in a Seattle gardening Conservatory. It is the height of prohibition, just after the market crash of 1929; a time which will later be referred to as The Great depression.

Characters:

Anne Hibbert- The Conservatory curator and AVID plants woman. She is no more than 24 years old. She tends to the displays at the conservatory and teaches gardening lectures to the public. She is intelligent, quick witted, and has a style reminiscent of the nineteen teens; that is to say, her dress and demeanor are somewhat conservative and classic in comparison to the popular and more provocative, "flappers" of the era

Daniel Lavery- An Irish born bootlegger in his late twenties. He is a swarthy young man with a cool demeanor and dark eyes. He could easily pose as a model for a cigarette add

James Watkins- A finance man, he runs the business aspect of the conservatory. A closet alcoholic, he often receives the “goods” from Mr. Lavery at the conservatory

Scene at rise:

During Anne’s conclusion portion of a late afternoon lecture, Daniel walks into the room. He is no doubt here to see James for liquor drop off. Having arrived early, he catches the last of Anne’s lecture, just for fun.
They have met before, briefly, yet long enough to have established that one is oil and the other, water. He revels in teasing her somewhat serious nature. She believes drinking is immoral, and therefore irritated by his presence at her place of work.
He leans against the back wall casually, with the brim of his cap pulled down over his brow, hiding his eyes.
Though she takes notice of his presence, she continues her lecture on a subject which she has titled, ‘The Poetry of Flowers’

Anne: So in conclusion, the gardener has the pleasure of observing the language of the garden; the way it speaks to him uniquely, according to his own experience of the world around him.
For example: In the garden, as in the world, the gardener can feel bored by a common specimen who requires very little care and therefore does not challenge his skills.
Or contrary, the gardener can find herself frustrated by a stubborn or elusive plant, much the way that a lover may feel mastered by a conquest who shows no response to her affections, causing her…or him, to lust after her all the more.
The ability the garden has on the gardener to stir emotion, which is seemingly reserved between humans, can be profound. So allow yourself a few foolish musings as you work.
I pray you all good evening and happy gardening.


(As the room clears, all but Daniel leave. He is still leaning against the wall.)

Anne: (As she packs her things she addresses him, not necessarily looking at him)
I don’t suppose you’re here to hear my lecture Mr. Lavery. I’m sure James will be here shortly.

Daniel: (Ignoring her remark)
I never would have fancied you as a poet Miss Anne!

Anne: (with a laugh)
What exactly do you know about poetry?

Daniel: (Now walking toward her, grinning)
You’re asking an Irishman what he knows about poetry?

Anne: I’m asking a rum running, whiskey drinking, lazy, womanizing, half wit what he knows about poetry!
(Daniel smiles at her as she insults him.)
What are you grinning at?

Daniel: (Moving all the closer, now accross the desk from her.)
Just thinking about your lecture and what you said about lovers. (Removing his hat, running his hand through his dark shoulder length hair.)
Is there someone in particular whom you feel…oh how did you put it…”mastered by”?
(He raises his eyebrow in a sugestive, semi-flirtatious, flash.)

Anne: I was merely making an illustration. It was a strictly hypothetical suggestion,Mr. Lavery, I assure you.

Daniel: Ah yes! A vivid illustration it was indeed! Think I may come down here with the lads and sit in for some more of those “illustrations” of yours.
(winks, and chuckles)
If it’s all right by you of course Miss Anne.

Anne: Lectures are for members only Mr. Lavery. So you and your rabble can continue telling your penny poetry to the “ladies” you meet down at the tavern you frequent.

Daniel: Oh come on now… You were saying that all flowers have personalities, just like people, right?
(She nods)
So, if I were a flower what would I be?

Anne: (Thinking a moment, packing her things. She grins.)
Taxacarum erythrospermum I would imagine.

Daniel: That sounds interesting.
(Trying to hide his pleasure, he is delighted she is playing along.)

Anne: Unfortunately Mr. Lavery it’s not in the least bit interesting. Taxacarum erythrospermum is the botanical name for the common Dandelion. It is a member of a grouping of plants considered to be a weed worldwide. It is collectively agreed upon that it is most un-interesting and actually, an invasive noosensence.

(James walks in. Daniel winks at Anne, to show he is unfased by her jab.)

James: Ah Daniel, Anne I’m not interrupting anything am I?

Anne: Oh no I was just informing Mr. Lavery here of the attributes of that Taxacarum erythrospermum.

(Unaware of their exchange James adds, pretentiously.)

James: Ah yes, a gardeners nightmare! You know in France it is referred to as ‘pissenlit’, which in translation means, “piss in bed". In Italian ‘Piscan’ meaning “Dog Pisses”, most likely because they are as common as dog pisses on the side of the road.
Did you know that Anne?



Anne: Oh yes I was aware of that James!
(She turns her attention back to Daniel)
Had you heard that Mr. Lavery
(She winks at Daniel. Still smirking, Daniel only shakes his head.)

James: (Claps hands together as if prompting Anne to leave)
At any rate Anne, good of you to keep Mr. Lavery company...

Daniel: Yes Miss many thanks for the company. You have a fine way of leaving a man feel like a cat must feel, having been petted in the wrong direction.

Anne: (Picking up her bag, she moves around the desk, facing Daniel.)
Well perhaps the cat should have looked elsewhere to have been stroked in the first place.

Daniel: (Putting his cap back on)
Perhaps the cat wasn’t looking to be stroked and merely came in to do his bidding and leave.

Anne: Well considering the bidding that the cat does, I suppose he had better get used to being unpleasantly stroked since not everyone inside is in favor of his bidding and therefore annoyed by his presence.
Good day Gentlemen.
(With that she turns and walks away, both men watch her walk down the corridor.

James: Please forgive her Daniel. Sometimes I have no idea what she’s talking about. She is both passionate and creative. In our little horticultural community, she is considered quite a novelty.

(Both men are left staring at her ‘novelties’ as she continues to walk away)

Daniel: (Almost mumbling)
Quite the novelty indeed.

Scene 1c lillies (Enter Mr. Lavery)

As she enters the respite center, she can see the shadow of a person who must have wandered downstairs by mistake. She is about to say something, but she notices the figure is bent over one of the specimens, looking at it taking a closer look. She decides to wait until the person is through with their observation before she interrupts to tell him that he must return upstairs.
He is a moderately tall man in his late 20’s or early 30’s. His hair is dark, and what would be considered long for the style of the day; at chin length. His shoulders are broad and from what she can tell he seems remarkably handsome.
Before she can speak, the figure has already sensed her presence. He says, without turning around.)

Daniel: (Speaking with a thick Irish accent)
Can’t see what all the fuss is really.

Anne: (Suddenly aware that they are alone in the cellar together, she takes a step back.)
Excuse me?

Daniel: These things, whatever they’re called?
(Pointing to the flower of the tree he was looking at. He was expecting James to have come down to pick up the delivery. He looks her in the eye. His eyes are dark and his features fine and strong.)

Anne: (A touch more comfortable) Witch Hazel?

Daniel: Is that it?
(He turns and looks again at the tree)
Seems fitting to me. It is kind of an evil looking thing really.

Anne: I don’t think I understand.

Daniel: Don’t think I do either, I thought this was supposed to be some kind of place what collects rare and lovely flowers.

Anne: Is their something I can help you with Mr.?

Daniel: Lavery. Daniel Lavery’s the name. And unless your name is James Watkins I don’t think there’s anything you can help me with at present Miss.

Anne: (Insulted at the notion that James would know something that she would not. Crossing her arms.)
Try me Mr. Lavery.

Daniel: I’d love to…. But unless you know where these are to be stored,
(Pointing to a stack of cases)
and you’re ready to pay me in cash, I’m afraid I’ll have to insist that I wait for Mr. James Watkins.
(Anne goes over to boxes Daniel has pointed to. She opens the one on top. It is filled with bottles. She pulls one out and examines it for a moment. She does not recognize the packaging. Come to think of it, it is rather strange to be receiving a delivery in the cellar of the conservatory at 9:30pm. Finally it dawns on her)

Anne: This is liquor!
(Her tone suggest that she believes she has discovered something very serious. Daniel remains calm and collected.)
I don’t know what kind of place you think this is Mr. Lavery, but I know one thing for sure… This is a botanical Conservatory and furthermore…
(Just as Anne is about to really give it to Daniel, James enters.)

James: Anne I’m so glad I found you
(Aware that Anne has seen too much.)
My mother and the other ladies were looking for you. They are all raving about the displays. They are wondering when the silent auction will begin.

Anne: James, I’m so glad you’re here I was just telling this gentlemen that he must have mistaken our facility for some speakeasy or local dive.

James: (Taking her by the arm, escourting her toward the stairs.)
Yes, yes, thank you Anne, I think I’ll take it from here. (
He crosses his arms giving a scornful look to Daniel for his lack of disgression. As Anne turns and walks up the stairs she turns and looks back to see Daniel opening a bottle of liquor, pouring James a shot, James taking it, nodding as if giving his approval. James then reaches into his pocket and hands Daniel a wad of cash.)

(SCENE)

(TO CONTINUE, GO TO SCENE 2)

Scene 1b lilies (Xmas party)

Across the room, a man seems to be searching for someone. His name is James Watkins and he also works at the Conservatory as the accountant.
His father, Charles, is the Conservatory founder and Society President.
Having spotted Anne, he pauses, inhales a deeply, straightens his tie, slicks his hair and approaches her.
James stands behind her, over her right shoulder as she stands, busily sketching. Obviously hoping to impress her he speaks.

James: Merlot Spathe, much larger than the species of its kind, bread obviously for it’s magnificent backwards facing whip.
(Looking closer, as though he has discovered some botanical imperfection.)
Unfortunately, it bears what seems to be a most irregular variegation.

(She turns to face him. He is searching for a sign that he has impressed her. Instead she replies simply, warm and yet contrary.)

Anne: I find her rather lovely.
(returning her gaze to the specimen)
Her graceful stem is sturdy, dependable and able. Her distinct features are evidence of her age; she must have set seed 20 times. As far as I’m concerned, her variegation, unreliable or otherwise is of no cause for concern, yours or mine.
(Her eyes lighten. We recognize that they are familiar with one another. She is bold as she continues to speak)
I imagine that if you had set seed that many times you variegation may become a little…irregular…would it not, James?
(She blushes. She, of course, is speaking of the Arasaema Taiwanese set before her, but has realized the double entendre behind what she has said. There is a brief beat between the two of them.)

James: You have bested me again Anne! However, I must say, you sound as though you believe longevity and maturation to be far superior qualities to uniformity and a superior gene pool. Good heavens what would Darwin say?
(As he surveys the Arasaema specimen up close, we see that the pistil is quite phallic. He raises his eyebrows, speaking softly)
Come to think of it, what would Freud say?

Anne: (For decency sake she pretends not to understand)
I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean.
(Beat)
I hope your father is pleased with the specimens I chose to display for the evenings celebration.

James: (With an air of resentment.) Oh Anne, you can do no wrong in his eyes. The man has been smitten with your work, as have all the other patrons here at the society.
I can’t tell you how many requests I receive each month.

(Implying it is quite a bothersome task)

Your weekly article in our newsletter seems to have attracted something of a cult following. Just last week I had to turn 9 people down cold who were eager to sign up for your upcoming lecture on epiphytes.
This notion of yours, discussing botanicals as if they were close personal friends with personalities and temperaments all their own...
(Laughs as though he thinks it a bit foolish)
Well it’s not my fancy but obviously it appeals to some, and it has been good for the society...monetarily speaking.
(Moves closer to Anne talking quietly)
Speaking of Society matters...
(Pauses as it is a delicate matter.)
I couldn't’t help but notice your lecture notes you are working on for February.

Anne: Yes I thought that given the state of things, the recent market crash and so on, it might be wise for the Society to discuss plant material that is a bit more functional, practical and less...eh... costly to purchase.
For instance: fruit trees, shrubs, and evergreen herbs for boarders.
After all James we are here for the sake of education not for the sake of economic gain.

James: (a patronizing laugh)
Oh Anne, do leave the economic matters to me. We’ll count on you to keep the flowers company, understood?

Anne: Yes, I just think...
(Just as though she is about to dispute his rebuke, a warm and friendly voice is heard, calling Anne’s name as he approaches.)

(It is Charles Watkins, Society founder and President, father of James, and host of the evening’s events. He is a person all his own. He Often repeats himselfwhen he is excited. His joy and passion for botanical specimens is evident. He has a youthful exuberance about him. He presides over the society, as though he does not consider it to be work at all)

Charles: Oh Anne how wonderful it is to see you!
(Teasing)
Oh Miss Hibbert you should never show to these occasions! Never should. These specimens become mere trifles in comparison to your beauty, mere trifles!
(He kisses her hand)
What a fine job you have done. Impeccable taste, I always say, don’t I James? ‘That Miss Hibbert has impeccable taste!’
(He takes Anne by the hand and looks her in the eyes. He speaks sincerely)
Your father would be pleased Anne. You notice things in these specimens no one else seems to. And ought!
We are all the richer having you here Anne, all the richer indeed!

James: (Obviously embaressed by his fathers enthusiasm and frankness)
Oh father I’m afraid these occasions reveal you as a punch loving fool. You need not go on and on regarding things Anne already knows all too well. Am I right Anne?

Anne: (Eager to finally get the attention off of herself)
Is Mrs. Watkins here? I must say she and the ladies have organized quite a grand celebration this evening.

Charles: She is around here somewhere, troubling herself over some minor detail, the way she always does at things like this.
(Beat)
James my boy, have we received any eh, deliveries this evening? I believe we were eh… expecting something from our dear Mr. Lavery?

James: I was on my way down to check. Anne, Father please excuse me.
(James leaves)


Anne and Charles are left standing together. He sees someone he knows and calls them over.
Anne suddenly finds herselfas the fifth wheel. She excuses herself and makes her way through the crowd. She notices that nobody is looking at her displays. The fronds of large, magnificent palms are being bent and broken as masses of people squeeze in between them. She sees a man extinguish his cigarette into the soil of a Livastona chinensis, a woman who appears to be smooshing the liquid of a dwarf violet bromeliad which has just flowered for the first time.
Just as though it seems as if it is too much for Anne, a woman who is laughing uncontrollably, swings her hand into the flower of the Arasaema taiwaniensis that Anne had been sketching earlier, thereby breaking the flower off. The woman hardly seems to notice. Anne rushes over, picks up the flower off the ground, gathers the pot in the other hand and walks off.

She will bring the specimen to its home in the conservatory respite center downstairs.

(Scene)

(TO CONTINUE< GO TO SCENE 1c)

Scene 1a Lilies (Xmas party set up)

It is the evening of December 17th 1929. The wealthy have not yet felt the effects of the market crash. At worst, they have lost "extra money", and the vast majority are still employed.

The Seattle Horticultural Society is hosting a Christmas party for its members in the social hall of the parks glass Conservatory. Outside a gentle snow falls. The coat closet at the entrance is nearly full. There is a massive fireplace in the center of the main wall opposite the entrance. A fire burns brightly. Large burgundy bows hang from freshly made fir wreaths that smell of outdoors and sap. Hot cider is being served to guests. Exotic Palms are laden with heavy green, gold and red Christmas bobbles.

The ban of distilled spirits prevents alcohol from being served at the event.
However, we can see men dousing their punch with hooch from well-concealed hip flasks. In some cases, men hand their flask to their female companions to partake of the stuff as well. Nonetheless, most are pleasantly intoxicated inspite of the ban of liquor.


The discussion revolves around “The less fortunate”. By this time the early lay-offs have hit the country pretty hard. Feigned sorrow filled eyes exchange ignorant rhetoric to one another on the subject of poverty.
We hear bits of conversation reflecting this general ignorance.

(Observing one conversation.)

Man 1: Unions are what has caused all this mess you know.
(Many agree to this.)

Man 2: Imagine, a man demanding to be paid 3 times what his present wage is! It’s bound to cause industry to suffer.

Woman 1: The next thing you know they’ll be demanding champagne be served at their lunch break.
(Followed by a chorus of catty laughter.)

Man 1: I see this as a gift for them really. This is the stuff Americans are made of. 2.5 million unemployed? Just wait, when all this is said and done a good handful of those folks will have learned how to really apply themselves properly.

Ad lib: Here, here! Well said! Couldn't’t have said it better myself!


Inevitably we find Anne. She is the curator of the conservatory. She has grown many of the botanics on display this evening. She is a true admirer of strange and unusual plant specimens. She has an impeccable eye and is a great asset to the conservatory.
At present she is perusing various displays. Some of the specimens have been shipped in for the event and are new to Anne. She seems uninterested in socializing, save for discussions on horticulture.
She has found quite a unique specimen among the Araceae display. Inspired, she reaches into her handbag, produces a note pad and pencil jots some down comments and a rough sketch.

(TO CONTINUE, GO TO SCENE 1b)