The Angel mAN
Stuart
(Getting up from the table)
I'm going to get cleaned up, it's going to be a big night.  Maybe I'll grab a shower.
mary
That's always been your answer
Stuart
My answer?  What are you talking about?  
mary
You're always just going to get cleaned up.
Stuart
I'm not following.
mary
Just go grab your shower.
Stuart
Is something bothering you?    
mary
I'll just sit here and wait.
Stuart
Why don't you get ready, put on one of your sexy outfits.
mary
I'll just wait.
Stuart
Then Watch some T.V, put one of your show on.  
mary
I'm not watching T.V while I wait for you to have your shower.
Stuart
Well the news might be on, try and get a weather update.  It would save us having to bring the umbrellas. 
mary
Do what you have to do.
Stuart
I'll just wash my hands then, then we can get going. 
mary
What about your shower?
Stuart
I had one yesterday.
mary
You just said you needed one.
Stuart
I said I was going to grab one, I didn't say I needed one.  
mary
It's the same thing.
Stuart
It's not the same thing.
mary
It's the same thing.  Just because you think you are smarter doesn't make  you smarter.  
Stuart
Are you trying to start a fight?
mary
Why would I want to start a fight?
Stuart
How would I know?
mary
Well why did you ask?
Stuart
Because you're being difficult about the shower.
mary
Why are you trying to force me to watch T.V
Stuart
I just thought it might relax you.
mary
I am relaxed.
Stuart
You don't seem relaxed, you seem a little agitated.  
mary
Are you a Dr. now ?  I wasn't aware I married a physician. 
Stuart
How about some coffee then, perk you up.
mary
Maybe I will grab a shower.
Stuart
That's a good idea.
mary
Why is that a good idea?
Stuart
A hot shower will relax you.  
mary
I don't need to relax.  I am relaxed,  why are you always trying to be the boss.  I don't need a boss.
Stuart
I'm not trying to be anything.
mary
You're always getting your way.  
Stuart
Just sit down and relax.
mary
There you go, bossing me around.
Stuart
Ok then don't sit down.
mary
Your manipulating me.

Stuart
Maybe a shower isn't a good idea.
mary
You take a shower.
Stuart
I'm going to have a cup of coffee.
mary
Now you're changing the subject.
Stuart
What subject, there is no subject.
mary
That's what you want me to believe.
Stuart
My God.
mary
Are you denying it?
Stuart
I'm not denying anything.  
mary
Then it's true.
Stuart
What's true ?
mary
I thought so.
Stuart
I'm going to get cleaned up.  
mary
Simple answer
Stuart
I just thought it might be a nice idea to get scrubbed up before we went out.
mary
Where are you going?
Stuart
What do you mean where am I going, I'm going out with you.
mary
I'm not going anywhere.
Stuart
We're going out for dinner.
mary
I've changed my mind
Stuart
It was your idea.
mary
I don't remember wanting to go out for dinner.
Stuart
You've been talking about it all day.
mary
I've been sleeping all day.
Stuart
I think I need that coffee.
mary
I thought you were going to get scrubbed up.
Stuart
I'll just  wash my hands.
mary
Why don't you have a shower
Stuart
I'll wash them at the restaurant, we'll save money on the hot water.
mary
I'm not in the mood to go out.
Stuart
It will do you good.
mary
I'll just stay home.
Stuart
Well I'm going out for dinner.
mary
What about me?
Stuart
Well put your coat on.
mary
Where are we going?
Stuart
Charlies.
mary
They burn the food at Charlies.
STUART
What?
MARY
You know as well as I do, that they burn the food there.
STUART
They don't burn the food.
MARY
I'm not going to a restaurant that burns the food. They burn the food because the meat is old. It's an old trick, everybody knows you burn the steak when it's old.    Besides the service is terrible
Stuart
They wait on you hand and foot.  That big French waiter always gives you extra dressing.  He can't keep his eyes off you.  
mary
He's gay.
STUART
How do you know he's gay.
MARY
All waiters are gay.
STUART
All waiters are not gay.  My brother is a waiter. 
MARY
There you go.
STUART
He has three kids.
MARY
He's a very clever gay man.
STUART
He's been married for 14 years.
MARY
He's got the world fooled. 
STUART
You went out with him before you met me.
MARY
I caught on.
STUART
Caught on to what?
MARY
The deception.
STUART
What deception?
MARY
A women knows, we have a nose for that sort of thing.  It might take some time, but eventually we catch on.  Rule number one Stuart, when a man loses interest in you, hold on to your underwear and keep your lipstick locked up.  
STUART
You don't wear lipstick.
MARY
That's because your brother stole it. 
STUART
Alright, forget the waiter lets just go grab a steak then.
MARY
I told you they burn them.

Stuart 
Since when do they burn them ?  They make the best steaks in town.  They won that award last year, they even have that plaque over the kitchen.  
mary
You can buy those plaques at the corner store.  You go to you're precious Charlies.  I'm staying home to watch the weather channel.
PaUSE

There could be a storm approaching.
Stuart
What about dinner?
mary
Are all the windows closed?
Stuart
I wonder if we'll need reservations?
mary
The rain will be good for the farmers.
STUART
Maybe I should give them a quick call to double check.
MARY
I'm getting hungry, maybe I'll fix myself a sandwich.

Stuart 
We'll be OK.  They shouldn't be that busy.
MARY
That's because they burn the food. Don't you remember that steak last week.
STUART
You loved it, you cleared your plate.
MARY
I was being polite, it's in my nature.
Stuart
Well  lets go to Pizza Oven then.
mary
I don't feel like pizza.
Stuart
You love pizza.
mary
Not anymore.
Stuart
When did you stop liking pizza? 
mary
The sauce is too tangy.
Stuart
It's made from fresh tomatoes.
mary
They save money by watering down the sauce with vinegar.   The Italians have been doing it for years.  Everyone knows you can't trust the Italians.
Stuart
Have the lasagna.
mary
There's sauce in the lasagna.
Stuart
I'm going to grab a shower.
mary
I thought you were going to wash your hands.
Stuart
I feel like a shower.
mary
Showers cost money.
Stuart
Well were saving on not going out.
mary
I thought we were going out for dinner.
Stuart
You said you wanted to stay home.
mary
I've changed my mind.
Pause
How about chicken?
Stuart
OK chicken, lets do chicken.  I'll just wash up.
mary
Shouldn't we get going.
Stuart
What's the rush?
mary
We could  avoid the line ups.
Stuart
It's Tuesday night. 
mary
You never know.
Stuart
No you never do.
mary

Are you going to grab that shower?
Stuart
I'll just  wash my hands.
mary
Have a shower.
Stuart
Where's my coat?
mary
Why do you want your coat?
Stuart
Maybe we should just get going then.
mary
I think I might lie down first.
Stuart
What?
mary
I'm feeling a little tired.
Stuart
But I thought we were going out for chicken.  You just said you wanted chicken.  You just said the sauce was too tangy because the Italians put vinegar in their sauce  and the steaks were burned.  You said you wanted chicken, didn't you just say that?
mary
It's  still early.
Stuart
But I thought......
mary
It's only a nap for christs sake.
Stuart
I'm grabbing a shower.
mary
Didn't you have one this morning.
Stuart
That was 12 hours ago.
mary
Showers cost money.
Stuart
Maybe we should call Phillip.
mary
He's not home.
stuart
How do you know that?
MARY
He's never home.
STUART
He'll be home.
MARY
No he won't.
STUART
I'll give him a call.  
MARY
Do what you want.
STUART
Where's the phone?
MARY
He'll be out with his whore.
STUART
Why are you saying that?
MARY
Saying what?
STUART
Why are you calling Jessica a whore?
MARY
Because that's what she is.
STUART
She's your daughter in-law.

She's nothing to me.  I can't be responsible for our son taking up with a whore. 
STUART 
Where's the phone book? 
PAUSE
It was right here, I remember it was right here. 
MARY
She's an ugly little thing, she'sa little pig.
STUART
What are you talking about?.
MARY
And she's fat, because the whore likes her bacon.  She probably likes it crispy. She's a crispy bacon eating whore.  
STUART
I put it right here, have you see the phone book?
MARY
When is the last time she brushed her teeth?   Have you ever seen her teeth?  She's a little pig.  He married a little pig.  Every time she smiles all you see is little pieces of crispy bacon.  Don't deny it, you've seen the bacon.  That bacon gives me the willies.  I get the shivers just thinking about it. I call them the bacon willies.  Don't stand there and deny that you've never had the bacon willies.  Don't you dare deny it.  
STUART
 
MARY
Why did he marry her?  A handsome boy like that. He could of had any girl he wanted, they were lining up right around the block. 
STUART
It was right here.  I remember putting it right here.  I must be losing my mind.
MARY
She doesn't even work.
STUART
She's a veterinarian.
MARY
That's not work.  It just keeps her close to her in-laws, the pigs.
pAUSE

Why don't you go grab your shower.
STUART
Would you just help me find that book.
MARY
He was raised better than that.
STUART
He know's what he's doing.
MARY
He's only a boy
STUART
He's 37.
MARY
He's still a baby.
STUART
Did you throw it out?
MARY 
She doesn't even go to church.
STUART
How do you know she doesn't go to church?
MARY
They don't let whores into church.
STUART
What do you mean ? Mary Magdelaane was  a whore.
MARY
Says who?.
STUART
Says the Bible.
MARY
Work of fiction.
STUART
You read it every night.
MARY
That's because you never take me out.  
STUART
Where is that phonebook?
MARY
What if they have kids?
STUART
We'll be Grandparents.
MARY
They'll have piglets.  What do you call that?  A litter, I'll be no grandparent to a litter.  I'm getting the bacon willies just thinking about it.  
PAUSE

I'm going to lie down.
STUART
But we're going out for dinner.
MARY
You've given me a headache.  
STUART
Can't you just take an aspirin.  
MARY
I need my rest. 
STUART
OK, you win.  I'll wait for you.  
MARY
Why did you have to bring up that whore?
STUART
I just want to call Phillip.
MARY
I don't want her in this house.
STUART
We'll meet them at the restaurant.
MARY
I'm not breaking bread with her in a restaurant.
STUART
Why don't you go lie down, and get some rest.
MARY
Why are you trying to get rid of me?  You can't just put me down like some stray dog.  I'm not some stray you can kick to the curb.   This is my house.  I pay the bills here.  
STUART
I just thought you were tired.
MARY
I have a headache, you've given me a headache.
STUART
I'm sorry.
MARY
Maybe I should lie down.
STUART
It might do you good.
MARY
Don't push me.
STUART
It's up to you.
MARY
You got that right grandpa.
 
MARY Leaves to left of the stage.

Scene one Act two

Stuart is slouched in the chair.  He is sleeping.  Their is a knock on the door.  He stirs gets up to answer.
Stuart
Come on in

sally
Hi ya hon,
Stuart
Come in, come in.  Can I get you something?   Cup of coffee?
SALLY
No thanks hon.  I just want to get going.  Where's Mary?
Stuart
She's having a lie down. 
SALLY
Is she sick?
Stuart
It's nothing serious.  
SALLY
Has she been to the doctors?
Stuart
It's not that serious, it's just a headache.  
SALLY
Has she had an aspirin?
STUART
She won't take anything for it, she's just had a long day.
SALLY
Maybe we should let her sleep.  
Stuart
Don't be silly, she wants to go out .  She's been looking forward to this all day.  
SALLY
We could reschedule.  
Stuart
She's fine,   have a cup of coffee. She'll be out before you know it.  Just sit down and let me get you a cup of coffee.  
SALLY
Now that's the smartest thing you've said since I've arrived.
StuarT

How do you take it?
SALLY
I take it like the night, make it black padre.
Stuart
So how was your day?  How's the fashion business?
SALLY
Same old.
Stuart
You're lucky to be surrounded by so much excitement.
SALLY
I'm an old gal, what could I possibly get up to.
Stuart
Your being modest, What was the weather like on your way over?
SALLY
It might rain, you just never know these days.
Stuart
Will I need a jacket?
SALLY
It's not that cold honey, maybe a sweater.
STUART
I'll put one on.
SALLY
There's no rush.
Stuart
We've been having a lazy day.
sALLY
Is she alright?
STUART
Oh she's fine.  Just a headache.
SALLY
Maybe you should call the Doctor.
STUART.  
It's nothing serious.  I think the weather brings it on.  Too much pressure in the air.
SALLY 
She gets so worked up.
STUART
She'll be alright.
SALLY
She hasn't been herself since the wedding.
STUART
She had a great time at the wedding.  
SALLY
She's been different since then.
STUART
How do you take your coffee again?
SALLY
Like the night padre.
STUART
Right.
SALLY
Maybe she needs to get away.   She needs to get out of this stuffy apartment. 
STUART
Your absolutely right.
SALLY
Take her on a holiday.  
STUART
She won't fly.
SALLY
Well drive to the coast.
STUART
She hates long drives.
SALLY
Well she needs to get out . 
STUART
What can I do?   
SALLY
I'll talk to her, she listens to me.
STUART
She looks up to you.
SALLY
We'll have a girl talk.  She just needs some cheering up.  It can't be easy going through what she's had to go through.  With the wedding then all that baby business.
STUART
It hasn't been easy for her.
SALLY
No I can't imagine it has been.  It was all just a big misunderstanding.  
STUART
That's all it was.
SALLY
Her nerves must be shot.
STUART
She just needs to rest.
SALLY
How are you doing ?
STUART
Oh, I'm alright.  I can't complain, I have my health and I walk almost every day.  
SALLY
Good to hear, You have to keep care of yourself.

P
Well I'm going to get going then.
sTUART
I'll wake her. Finish your coffee.
SALLY
Let her sleep.
STUART
Give me a minute.  She will want to see you.
SALLY
Let her sleep hon..
Stuart
She'll be upset that she missed you. 
SALLY
I'll meet you at Charlies.  We'll talk when you get there.
STUART
We might not be going there.
SALLY
We have reservations for 7:00 
STUART
She thinks they burn the steaks there.
SALLY
Honey they don't even burn the candles there.
STUART
I know, it's just the Mary thinks that they do.
SALLY
The woman needs a holiday.  This last year has been hard on her. 

STUART
I know.
SALLY
Well what should we do?
STUART
How about Pizza Oven.
SALLY
Pizza Oven?  Hon, we'll go to Charlies.  Let her have her nap, when she wakes she will be fine.
STUART
Your probably right.
SALLY
Of course I'm right. I'm an old southern gal with years of experience.
STUART
I know.
SALLY
I'll get us a good table.  Take care of her.
STUART
We'll see you there.
SALLY
You take care.  Let Aunt Sally worry about this.

Mary leaves. Stuart sits down, Mary emerges from the room.
Mary
Who was that?
STUART
Sally came by.
MARY
Sally, what did she want?
STUART
To go to Charlies.
MARY
I've already told you I'm not going there.
STUART
She thought you might change your mind.
MARY
When did she leave?
Stuart
Just now, you just missed her.
MARY
Why wouldn't she wait? What was her rush.  I was in the next room.  I was right in there.  You should have called.  
Stuart
You weren't ready.
MARY
I'm ready now.
Stuart
I know.
MARY
Why didn't you tell her I was ready.
Stuart
 She seemed to be in a hurry.
MARY
Hurry, what hurry?
Stuart
She's a busy lady.
MARY
She's Fucking crazy.
Stuart
She was in a hurry that's all.
MARY
She's been crazy her whole fucking life.  Product of a broken home.  You know how they are.
Stuart
Try and relax.  

							    MARY
I am relaxed.
Stuart (CONT'D)
Well sit down then.  There's no rush.  We have all the time in the world.
MARY
Why didn't she wait, I was just fixing my hair.  Doesn't a woman have the right to fix her hair.  Who does she think she is?  Coming into my house and dictating the rules, setting my schedule.  
Stuart
She had to go.
MARY
Where?
Stuart
What do you mean?
MARY
Where did she have to go?
Stuart
To the restaurant.
MARY
She's not going to that Godamn restaurant.
Stuart
Then where is she going?
MARY
She's going to Als
Stuart
Why are you saying that ?
MARY
It's the truth.
Stuart
Why do you have to be so mean?
MARY
You know she's going to Als.
Stuart
She's going to Charlies.
MARY
How can you be so naive.
Stuart
She's a friend of ours.
MARY
She's a friend of yours.
Stuart
Have some coffee.
MARY
She should take her southern fried chicken and stay away.  I don't need friends like her.  Look what her family did to those poor black people.  I bet her pappy was the grand poohbah.
Stuart
Can't you just leave it alone.
MARY
If that's what you want.
Stuart
Have some coffee.
MARY
I don't want any coffee.  She could of waited, what was her rush ?
Stuart
We'll meet her at the restaurant.
MARY
She won't be there, they wouldn't serve her.  Charlies is a very respectable place.  She'll be at Als.  
Stuart
She hasn't been to Als in at least six months.
MARY
That's what you think?
Stuart
How would you know that?
MARY
I saw her there last week.
Stuart
You saw her there last week?
MARY
We had a coffee.
Stuart
You had a coffee at Als ?
MARY
Last week.
Stuart
What were you doing at Als ?
MARY
We were having a coffee.  We had some things to discuss.  Good friends need to discuss things. It's important to talk things through.
Stuart
You never told me you had coffee last week.
MARY
Because you're always being the boss.  I don't need to share everything with you.  I need my privacy.  I need my space.
Stuart
I didn't know.
MARY
Well now you do.
STUART
Is this important?
MARY
Not to me.
STUART
Why don't you get ready.
MARY
I'm staying home.
STUART
But we have made plans.
MARY
I'm not going.  I'm tired
STUART
I'll call Phillip and ask him to meet us there.
MARY
He won't come.
STUART
How do you know, he needs to eat doesn't he.
MARY
He's with his whore.
STUART
He's not with his whore.
MARY
Call him then.
STUART
I can't find the book.
MARY
Thats because I threw it out.
STUART
You what?
MARY
I threw it out.
STUART
Why would you throw it out?
MARY
What does it matter?
STUART
Well how are we going to call him?
MARY
I'm not calling anyone.
STUART
He's your son.
MARY
He has his whores.
STUART
Please stop saying that.
MARY
Why?
STUART
Because he's our son.
MARY
He's no good.
STUART
What are you talking about?
STUART (CONT'D)
He's a great kid, he's always been a great kid.  
STUART (CONT'D)
What has gotten into you.  Ten minutes ago you wanted me to call him and ask him to dinner.
MARY
I've changed my mind.  He's no good. He never has been.
STUART
He's your son.
PAUSE

STUART 
Where is that phonebook?
MARY
I told you  I threw it out.
STUART
I'll call the operator.
MARY
Do what you want.
STUART
Where is the phone?
MARY
I'm not leaving this apartment.  

STUART
It's only dinner for christs sake.
MARY
It's more than that.
STUART
It's a meal, maybe a drink.  People do it all the time.  
.
MARY
It's a night out with a whore,  a Jezebel .  He always has those Jezebels.  He was raised better than that,  I raised him to respect women, to love them.  

Stuart
Can you stop that.
mary
What?
Stuart
Pacing, can you stop your pacing.
mary
It helps me think.
Stuart
Can you just sit down please?
mary
Always the boss.
Stuart
Would you please just sit down.
Stuart (CONT'D)
Where is that book?
mary
I threw it out.

Stuart
I'll call the operator.
mary
She'll  never forgive me
Stuart
She loves you.
mary
She doesn't love me, how could she?  
Stuart
You know that's not true. 
mary
I hurt him, and she holds me responsible.  I hurt my baby and she knows it.  
PAUSE

She's a mother and  mothers know. 
Stuart
I'll give him a call.
mary
Please don't call him.  
PAUSE

Please leave him alone.  
Stuart
It's on the fridge, I put it on the fridge. 

(He goes off and looks for the number finds it picks up the phone calls Phillip )

Hey Phillip it's your dad... hey listen I'm sitting here with mom and she is kinda upset at you not being able to make it tonight... I see.   I see.  Can I talk to her.... If you just let me have a chat with her.  I see..  Well hey Philly buddy what if we... I see. OK then.  Bye son. 
PAUSE

The boy  sure is busy... good for him.  You raised  him right, that boy is a go getter that's for sure.  Chip off the ole block.

The lights fade on the main stage and to the left a single bare light bulb light lights up. the main stage or Stuart's Apartment is still dark.  on the side stage A Man is talking at the audience and between him and the audience is a chair.  The chair should be empty over time the audience should begin to realize that this man has just assaulted the person on the chair.  The audience will take her place. the man will in essence will assault the audience.  In the final scene the director might want to put a person in the chair with their naked back to the audience.  

Bill
Hangs up phone.  Looks up at ceiling shakes his head.  (optional)  he gets up urinates off screen.  Audience hears this, this presents a real guttural feel to Bill.
Bill
They call me Billy.
r
Silence
BILL
All my life they've called me Billy, my name is William though.  What do you prefer William or Billy? 
R
Silence
BILL
Billy sounds like I'm a boy, a kid.  A guy who doesn't know what he's doing.  It's  a kids name, and we both know I'm not a kid eh? Billies are the kind of kid who sit in the back of the class and get laughed at.   Do me a favour will ya call me William.  I'd appreciate it.
R
Silence
BILL
I mean would you have went home with a kid? Could a kid have swept you off your feet.  Be honest with me.  Yeah I didn't think so.
R
Silence
BILL 
Are you Hungry? You should be, you've been working hard.  I could make you a sandwich.  I think I have some lettuce in the fridge.  Do you like lettuce? Of course you like lettuce, everybody likes lettuce.  Its a vegetable, it's good for you.  and it makes you strong.  A man could live on milk and lettuce,  did you know that?  Milk is good for the bones and lettuce is good for just about everything else.  I kid you not. And it's cheap, what's it cost ? A buck a head. A  buck a head ain't nothing.  You can't catch the bus for a buck.  You can't even wash your clothes for a buck,  that will cost you at least a buck fifty.  
R
Silence
BILL
Jesus I'm hungry, I could eat a horse.  A big horse.  One of those bastards that pull those big beer trucks.  You know the ones.  What are they called...  It's on the tip of my tongue...  Clydesdales I could eat a Godamn Clydesdale.  
pAUSE
Why are  you crying?
R
Silence
BILL
I was only kidding about the horse, I wouldn't eat a horse, who the hell would eat a horse?  
R
Silence
BILL
Do you like horses ? Is that it.  Are you some sort of an animal lover?  
R
Silence
BILL
I didn't know you liked horses, if I would have known I wouldn't have said anything.  Honest Injun I wouldn't have said a thing. You never told me.  If you had of told me I wouldn't of mentioned it.  I could of said a pig, or a cow.  Hell I'd eat a snake before I would ever at a Horse.  Horses... honestly  who would eat a horse.    
R
Silence
BILL
I always say the wrong thing. I always put my foot in it. Ever since I was a kid I've been saying the wrong thing.  God, I should just shut up.  I mean who would eat a horse.  I love horses.  I grew up with them.  My mom use to read me Black Beauty, I loved that book.
R
Silence.

BILL 
Please don't cry. 
R
Silence
BILL

I just want to talk.  But not about horses.  I don't even like them.  I grew up in the city.  I've never even been on one.  
R
Silence
BILL
Don't you want to talk. I can understand that.   Maybe you should get some rest then.  You've had a long night, and I'm sure you never thought it would end up like this. 
R
Silence
BILL
You remind me of my mom.  Now there was a lady. Strong, and  confident.  She owned the world. She raised me good, made sure I went to college, made sure I never went without.  
PAUSE

Sure she was tough, but that's what a boy needs.  A boy needs rules.  A boy needs to know his mother is on the other side of that door.  A boy needs to know that when he opens that door she'll be there, standing right there.  Right  there waiting.  That's what a boy needs, that's what a boy craves. 
R
Silence
BILL

All that mattered to her was my success.  She was completely unselfish, a saint.  She never went out.  She sacrificed her life for me and my future.  She wouldn't even let me out of my room until I finished my homework.  And I just wasn't sitting up there playing games or wanking off.  I was working, working hard.  The woman loved me. 
BILL (CONT'D)
I wasn't born a Kennedy, but look at me now.  I'm a captain of industry.  People report to me, I'm respected.  I can see their fear by the way they grovel into my office.  They stick knives in each others backs.  And for what, I'll tell you what, so that maybe , just maybe I might say good morning to them.  Fools the lot of them.  
R 
Silence.
BILL
She wouldn't let me have any friends over until I finished all my work, it was one of her rules.  She would check on me every hour on the hour.  She was like clock work.  First at 5 then at 6, then at 7.  She would bring me some toast at 8, and at 9 she would test me on my spelling and then it was off to bed.  She sure was a disciplinarian.  Kids today could use mothers  like that.  World's turning into a shit hole and it's all just parenting.  Kids need boundaries.  Kids need to know where they stand.  Kids need discipline.  They need love sure, but it's discipline they need,  They crave it.  Without it their not prepared.  
R
Silence
BILL
It's simple really, it all comes down to respect. Respect for yourself and respect for others.  You have to treat others the way that you want to be treated. If your going to be an assehole then that's what you'll get, assehole.  

Act two 

Stuart is alone in the apartment , Mary is sleeping.  There is a knock on the door.  In comes Jimmy John Bob.  He bursts through the door and the audience can here him as soon as Stuart opens the door.  Stuart doesn't really get a chance to welcome him.
Jimmy John BoB
Ever crawled through a field.  Have you ever  just crawled through a field.  Got down on your hands and knees and crawled across it.  You get the dirt caught between your hands and you can taste the dew.  
STUART
No I've never done that.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Opens up the soul man. It opens up the soul. 
STUART
How have you been? 
JIMMY JOHN BOB
A man can cross a lotta grass if he finds the right field.   He  can feel the earth, he can taste the earth.  The right field is an odyssey.  A journey that can take a man from his his infancy to his death. 
STUART
How about a cup of coffee, I'll put the jug on.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Do you want to go for walk man?  Lets find an open space and  get our hair wet. 
STUART
I'm going out for a  meal.  We have reservations.  It's going to be a big night.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
A meal eh?  Well there's a big park out there.  They just put in a whole new swing set.  Could be fun crawling up to that. Freshly painted my friend, we'd be the first.   
STUART
Did you want a coffee? I was just about to make myself one.  You look like you could use a pick me up.

PAUSE
I'm not really into going outside right now.

JIMMY JOHN BOB
Well what are you doing tomorrow?
STUART
Tomorrow might be OK
JIMMY JOHN BOB
OK then, maybe tomorrow.
STUART
Would you like that  cup of coffee?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
No thanks man it wires me. Gives me the jitters.
STUART
How about a decaf?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Decaf?
STUART
Coffee without the caffiene
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I have to get going, the rain is coming, we should be out there. 
STUART
Are you sure? It wouldn't be a problem, I'm having one.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Come with me.  
STUART
I can't, I'm going out for dinner.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Forget dinner.
STUART
Maybe tomorrow.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
There might not be a tomorrow. And it's raining right now.  I tell you man it's a good feeling to be washed away in the rain.  When is the last time you went for a run in the rain?
STUART
I don't know.

JIMMY JOHN BOB
It's always different man.  It's constant change.  It's baptismal.  It's pure light,  it's like meeting an angel.   Have you ever danced with an angel?
STUART
I'm taking Mary out for dinner.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I'm  talking about angels' and your talking about sitting in a room full of strangers and ordering food off a piece of paper that was printed last year.    You're not well man, you need to change your priorities.  Open your mind brother before it's to late.  Take it in my friend, take it in before it's too late.  
STUART
We're going to Charlies.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
They have wings my friend, your feet don't even touch the ground.  .....effortless movement, you dance all night, and you never get tired.  It's like making love to a dream.  Life is beautiful my friend, it's beautiful and we have to get out there.  
STUART
She's been looking forward to it all week.  She likes the steaks.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Let me tell you something, you don't pour concrete into the earth, you pour love into the earth.  You pour yourself into the earth.   
STUART
She enjoys the steaks.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
The earth is the mother, haven't you figured that out.   She's the mother, the nuturer, the life giver, the welcomer.  Fuck the steaks man, we need to get out there.  
STUART
The service at Charlies is the best in the city.  Not once have they been late with the appetizers.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Appetizers?  What the hell are you talking about?  I'm talking about getting out there and drinking that rain. Soaking it into my bones and  drenching my soul.  I'm talking about getting washed away by the heavens. 
PAUSE

What is this nonsense about Appetizers? 
STUART
You should come with us.  I'll get you a dry shirt.  It'll be great, just like the old days.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
The old days were hell Stu. Nothing there for me old pal. And besides  I haven't been dry for years.  Now get yourself ready we're going out for a run.  
STUART
I have to get ready for dinner, I can't go for a run.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Do you remember when I shot that kid?
STUART 
So I'll call you.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Do you remember when I shot that kid?
STUART
You know what, we should....... 
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It was raining that day.
STUART
I don't want to talk about that.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Do you remember  that rain?  
STUART
I don't  remember.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Man was it raining.  Remember the kid was in that hut  with the old lady?
STUART
I'm tired
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Well you remember don't you?  He was in that hut.  He was in there with the old lady.  You gotta remember that.  I can  still taste  that rain.  It was sulphur, the rain tasted like Godamn sulphur.  Sulphur tasting rain, how the hell do you get sulphur tasting rain?  
STUART
I don't know.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
That rain had no soul.
pAUSE
It was empty.  It was faceless and empty.  It went right through you.  I remember being so cold, I couldn't get warm, all that gear and I couldn't get warm.  I was so cold Stu.  Rain shouldn't be cold.  Rain should give life.  Rain should give birth. I was afraid of that rain.  It had no soul, it held me and it wouldn't let go.  
 
sTUART
How was work today ?
JIMMY JOHN BOB

The little bastard had a grenade 
STUART 
Mary's going to be up soon.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
He was coming right for me.  
STUART
Yes he was.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Imagine a five year old carrying a grenade, who gives a five year something that can kill a man ?
STUART
Well  it's getting late.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
A fucking grenade, I mean what kinda shit is that.  Where the hell did he get it?  It was fucked up Stu.  
STUART
I don't know.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
He sure was a quick little runner. 
STUART
Would you look at the time.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Remember how fast he could run. That little bastard sure could run.  
PAUSE
He was a blur... it was all a blur.  Boy could that kid move.  He didn't give me time to react.  We weren't trained for that.  We weren't trained for kids with grenades.  How do you train for that?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I gotta go for a walk.  Get some air
STUART
You should go for a walk.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It looked like a grenade
STUART
Yes it did
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Your damn right it did.  That fucking rain.  I've always hated the fucking rain.  You can't see a thing.  It blinds you.  Tell me that's not fucked, it's baptismal and yet it blinds you. It opens your eyes and then seals them shut. It forces you to live you're whole life behind the lids of you're eyes.  It opens them, shows you the light, then it sentences you to a life of darkness.    
STUART
I don't know.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
He looked like trouble.  He had the look of a wild dog.
pAUSE

The kid should of stayed in his hut, why the hell was he coming out of his hut.  Who in their right mind comes out their hut in the rain, es running in the rain.  What was that baby thinking.  ............ That souless rain...........  A little boy.......  Only a little boy.  Baby's shouldn't be out wandering in the rain, babies should be home with their mothers,  they  should be in their cribs.
STUART
I don't know.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Godamn him. the little baastard.
STUART
Mary will be up soon.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Yeah I gotta go.
STUART
It's getting late.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I didn't bring an umbrella.
STUART
I'll get you one
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Thanks.
STUART
It's not a problem.
JIMMY JOHN BOB 
What were we doing there anyway?
sTUART
I think we're going out for steak.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Why were we there?  
STUART
I think I can hear Mary.
JIMMY JOHN BOB

I just  can't shake it,  it haunts me.  Shadows man, there every where.  I can't shake these shadows. I have to sleep with a full light.  I have to walk in a full sun.  I can't face the darkness.  It's not fair, it's just not fair.  
pAUSE
How was I to know he couldn't speak English.  I've never talked to anyone who couldn't speak English.
STUART
It wasn't your fault.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Someone has to accept responsibility.  Someone has to be held accountable.
STUART
It's getting pretty late, I really should start getting ready.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
How old would he be today?  He'd be a young man.  Maybe he'd have a girlfriend. Who knows he might even have little one of his own.
STUART
Why are you putting yourself through this?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
He could have kids now,  you never know.  Most people have kids.  It's natures way. I took away a generation Stu. 
PAUSE
Who the hell comes out of a hut in the middle of a rain storm carrying an apple?  
PAUSE (CONT'D)
The apple was a gift Stu.  
PAUSE (CONT'D)
He was going to give us that apple so we would go away and not hurt him or his mother.  A little boy in the rain.  A five year old with an apple trying to protect his mother.  What have I done Stu? Stu tell me what I've done. 
STUART
Well I have to start getting  ready.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Was it a choice Stu?  Was I given a choice?  For Christ's sake.  It looked like a grenade.  I mean apples and grenades.  Is there a difference.  
PAUSE
I haven't slept in twenty years because I couldn't tell the difference between a piece of fruit and a grenade. Between a gift and a ...
PAUSE (CONT'D)

I'm going to Hell Stu.   That's where God is going to put me.  He's going to put me in Hell.  They have a special place down there for guys like me.  
PAUSE (CONT'D)
(Laughing)  At least it won't be raining.  
PAUSE (CONT'D)
Where are you going?

STUART
I'm taking Mary out for dinner.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It's pouring out there.
STUART
I know.

JIMMY JOHN BOB
Cats and dogs man.

STUART
I'll wear a rain coat.

JIMMY JOHN BOB
Are you taking her to a restaurant.  
STUART
We haven't really decided.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It must be nice to have a wife.  Someone to keep you company.
STUART
It has its moments.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I should get a wife, they ground you.  I need to settle down.  I'm going mad living on my own.  There's just too much time to think.  I need an emotional anchor, some balance.  The Greeks used to say that only dogs and gods can live alone.  Which one am I Stu?  I'll tell you one thing, I'm no god.  
STUART
You could have your pick.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Maybe I'll start a family.
STUART
That's a good idea.

JIMMY JOHN BOB
I could see myself as a father.  It would be good for me. I've got the instinct.  I'm a patient man, I always have been.  I don't just jump to conclusions, I think things through.  It's my strength.  

STUART
A man needs family around.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
How is you're boy?
STUART
He works a lot.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Your a lucky man.
STUART
I know
JIMMY JOHN BOB
How is his wife doing?

STUART
She's a great girl.
PAUSE

How's your book coming?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I put it down.
STUART
I thought you were just about finished it.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I can't think of an ending, nothing seems to fit.  Writing is a lonely business my friend.  
STUART
I thought you were looking for a publisher.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
There's no ending man.
STUART
But what about the girl, the car and the stolen money?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I couldn't finish it.
STUART
That's too bad.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
That book was bullshit man.  I'm writing a  better one, one with meaning.  
STUART
What's it about?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It's about an author who gets sick of all the shit that's being written.  The kitchen sink dramas, and all the books with predictable endings.  He gets so sick of all the shit that is being jammed into our heads that he decides he is going to write the ten greatest novels of all time. 
STUART
Sounds interesting.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Yeah, but there's a catch.  He makes a pact with himself. He decides that each time he finishes a novel he will cut off one of his fingers. A little clip here and a little clip there.   
PAUSE

You see this will prove to him that his work is worth something more than just the bullshit money.  One finger a book.  He's not full of shit man, he's an artist and he's ready to prove it to the world.  He's the  prophet that will set us free. He's Steve McQueen.  The man could eat fifty eggs hands down.
STUART
I should check on Mary, I promised I would get her up for dinner.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Listen man, I'm telling you something.  The author finishes his first book,  and it's the truth. He believes in it.  It's not about fairies or angels,it's about healing, it's about the power of prayer, it's about the challenges we face when we lose our way. It's about man stumbling out of the darkness and into the light. But here's the rub, the light man seeks ultimately blinds him.  So he shields his eyes and he stumbles again.  You see man is doomed to darkness.  The dude understands this.  He understands that man can never return to the grace from which he came, he understands that man must find comfort in the dark, and that only then will man be free. He knows that the greater the truth the brighter the light, and the brighter the light the darker the room.  You see those who seek the truth are ultimately blinded by their own vanity.  Dogs and gods Stu, man has to understand that only god can stare into the sun.  
PAUSE

So what does he do?  He cuts off his little finger.  This one right here.  He cuts it clean off. He follows through, he's not afraid and he shaves it off. He's not a coward my friend, he's a hero. He's a revolutionary.   
PAUSE (CONT'D)

I haven't figured out what he does with it though, what do you do with a finger?  Maybe he feeds it to the cat.   Who knows, who cares. It's not the point , the point is that he follows through. He's got courage and he's got conviction.  He's a Godamn hero.  The world needs heroes.  He's not like you and me, he believes.  
PAUSE (CONT'D)

So he cuts off his finger and moves into a little cabin in the woods, and he fills it with tins of food.. You see he doesn't want to be bothered anymore.  No more bullshit man, no more  Freddy Flinstone on the TV.  He's alone just like the rest of us, only he has the courage to accept it.    And now he's typing with tears, he's typing with his Godamn tears.  Can you dig that man, can you dig that, just like Steve MCQueen . 
PAUSE (CONT'D)

It's all about race cars and ice cream.  
STUART
Mary's a light sleeper just let me check on her.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I'm telling you something here..  This guy writes another book,  and its even better than his first one.  It's about forgiveness.   So what does he do ? He cuts off a second finger.  He's happy and he's contributing and  he's leaving his mark.  He's staking his claim.  Full steam ahead man.  Then there's a third  and fourth book, finally he has to cut off his thumb.  Can you dig that, five books, four fingers and a thumb.  Do the math man.  It adds up .  He's Steve McQueen, and he's racing at Le Mans.  Forget Vangoh with his insignificant ear, this dudes cutting off his fingers.  He's sacrificing his hands, and that's the irony,  because he  can't write when he doesn't have his hands.  Can you dig that?  The better he gets the less he can say. He knows he has to take everything that lies within him and put it on the page before he is silenced forever.  He has to get past all his fears and worries, he has to make choices, he has to make a difference. 
STUART
It sounds good, I really think you should finish it. There is definitely an audience for that type of writing,  it's deep but not disturbing.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Hold on  brother, he still has a second hand, and he's still writing.  He's sitting in this cabin eating tins of salmon and he's still working away. The books are coming at a furious pace now. Soon he finishes his sixth and seventh book.  His eighth book is about a man who stands in a boat and attempts to hold it to shore.  He want's to hold onto the security of the land but he also want's to experience the freedom of the sea.  But he soon gets caught up in a current and the boat quickly begins to drift from shore.  So what does he do?  If he tries to hold on he will eventually fall and drown.  But if he steps onto the land he loses the sea, and his freedom and adventure will be lost. This guys got a dilemma, and he can't decide.  So he  waits, and he questions and he lets fate take it's turn.  But the boat gets caught up in a swell and he falls, and  he drowns.  The dude drowns because he couldn't make a decision, he spent his life in a state of indecision and pays for it with his life. Indecision doesn't keep you afloat my friend, it only weighs you down.  
STUART
I like it.  I think you have a talent for putting the reader at ease.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB

So the author's just about reached his goal, hasn't he?  So he begins to write his ninth book, and it's about peace.  It's a about a planet that is guided by the principles of peace.  Can you dig it man,  he cuts off his second last finger because he writs a book about  love.  Steve Fucking MCQueen.  One finger to go and he has just written a book about the celebration of man.  
PAUSE
One more finger and one more  book, but the pain is starting to get intolerable now.  Not only is he wrestling with his final book, he's also wrestling with opening those Godamn tins of fish.  But he manages, he pushes on and he concludes the journey    His final book is about the theater of war.  It's about you and it's about me.  It's about war, a war fought over ideas and words.  It's about people losing their lives over ideas, losing their lives over words.  The war consumes all the love, and the people just cry when they realize that it's too late.   They have fought and they have killed,  and there's nothing left.  Just like his hands.   Can you see that? The dudes electric man.  The dude has left his mark.
PAUSE (CONT'D)

But what now?  What is left to do ? Well what can he do?  He can only sit there and  smile at a  job well done.  Mission accomplished.    But he's got a problem doesn't he, he can't open those Godamn tins.  He's sitting there surrounded by tins of salmon and cocktail wieners.  Steve McQueen man, Steve Fucking McQueen. So he slowly starves to death.  In a little cabin in a little forest he slowly starves to death surrounded by the greatest works ever known to man.  He's a fucking hero, a champion amongst men.  
STUART
I think you should talk to a publisher, I think people would like to read that.
JIMMY JOHN BOB 
Where are my manners, you probably want to start getting ready for dinner, and here I am dripping all over your carpet.  
STUART
It's only water.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
How is Mary?
STUART
She's tired.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
You got a good woman there.
STUART
I got lucky with Mary.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
She's a rock Stu.  I don't know how she puts up with you.
STUART
She's well paid.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Well I should go, I really want to get out there. 
STUART
Are you sure you don't want to come to dinner.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
No, I've eaten.  I had a a tin of tuna before I came over.
STUART
They say it's  good for you.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Pure protein Stu, pure protein.  I'll see you later.
STUART 
Take care.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
You know I will
Jimmy John Bob Leaves, Stu begins to clean up and Mary emerges from BedroomM
Mary
Who was that?
stUART
Jimmy John Bob dropped by for a visit
MARY
Why did you let that madman in?
STUART
Because I enjoy his company, and he's an old fried.
MARY
You let him into my house?
STUART
He was out walking and he thought he might drop by for a visit.  He's an interesting fellow to say the least.  I think you would like his latest book.  
MARY
He's a mad man.
STUART
He's always ina hurry though, he couldn't stay for a cup of coffeee.
MARY
He was in my house?
STUART
How was you're nap.  Are you rested?
MARY
You let that mad man in here, I was in the shower and he was out here.  Here, in the house where I raised my child here.  
STUART
He wanted to go for a walk? He was in a very talkative mood.
MARY
A walk?
STUART
Just a walk.
MARY
He's a drug addict, you know that don't you?
STUART
No I didn't know that.
MARY
He's a  pill popper.
STUART
Don't be silly, he's a good guy.
MARY
And a snorter, right up the nose is what I hear.
STUART
Are you ready?
MARY
What did he touch?
STUART
Nothing.
MARY
Are you sure?
STUART
Pretty sure.?
MARY
The man's been arrested

STUART
When was he arrested?
MARY
What does it matter when? He's been in prison.  
STUART
I don't think he's ever been to prison.
pAUSE

Are you going to get ready?

MARY
He must of touched something.  You just don't come into someone's home and not touch anything.  I can smell him. There's a musty smel in the room.  Musty and old, reminds me of your mother.  She was musty and old.   
STUART
He was wet, and what has this got to do with my mother?

MARY
What kinda of a man walks around in the rain.  What did he touch?  Has that been moved?  I'm sure I can smell him.
STUART
I don't smell anything.
MARY
Well where was he standing?
STUART
Over there by the door.

MARY
Call the police
STUART
What?
MARY
Call the police, we'll need to file a report.  
STUART
Is that necessary?
MARY
Pill Popping drug addicts just don't show up soaking wet and not take anything.  I've heard he puts the pills up his ass. 
STUART
He just wanted to talk, I don't think he anything up his ass.
pAUSE

I only offered him a coffee.
MARY
You what?
STUART
I offered him a hot drink, something to warm him up.  I told you he was cold.
MARY
I can't believe this.
STUART
He's a good person
MARY
He's a drug addict.
STUART
I don't think he takes drugs.
MARY
He doesn't even own a pair of shoes.
pAUSE

Call the police.
STUART
He just wanted to see if I would join him for a walk.
MARY
In the rain?
STUART
He likes to walk in the rain.
MARY
People don't walk in the rain.
STUART
Soldiers walk in the rain.
MARY
He's never been  a soldier.
STUART
He use to be.
MARY
When was he a soldier?
STUART
He fought in the war.
MARY
He wasn't in a war.
STUART
I'm pretty sure he was.
MARY
Is that what he told you?
pAUSE
He's a drug addict. Your such a fool Stuart.  You have always been a fool.  They don't let people on drugs carry weapons, are you mad?
 Is that what you think?  

STUART
The man did two tours.
mARY

He didn't do two hours.  He's no war hero.
PAUSE

How can you be so naive.  
STUART 
He means no harm,   he's just an old friend. 
MARY
What about me? When are  you going to start considering me?
STUART
I love you.
MARY
You don't love me.
STUART
I've only ever loved you.
MARY
You love yourself.
STUART
Honey is this important, we should really be getting ready.  
MARY
I don't want him back in my house.
STUART
He means no harm, he's just an old friend out for a walk.
MARY
He's been in prison.
STUART
He was never in prison.
MARY
When  you take the life of a child that's where they put you.
STUART
Why can't you let this go.  You were sleeping for christs sake, you didn't even see him.
MARY
I can smell the must.  Reminds me of you mother.
pAUSE

Just keep him out of my house. Let him sell his fruit somewhere else.  
STUART
He needs to be forgiven.
MARY
He needs to be forgotten.
STUART
People make mistakes.  (Quietly) Jesus Christ made his share.
MARY
That was no mistake.
STUART
What are you talking about?
MARY
Just keep the apple man out of my house.  
STUART
Don't call him that.
MARY.  
You know what he did.  
STUART
He's a human being, and that's in the past. Lets just leave it there. 
MARY.
Is that right?  A human being?  He should be in prison.
STUART

That was a long time ago.  He's had a hard life.
MARY.
He's taken lives.
STUART
He's never taken a thing.
MARY.
Was he crying like a baby.  That's why the carpet's wet isn't it.  Because he was crying like a little boy.
STUART
It's raining outside, he was soaking wet.
MARY.
Did he have an apple with him?
STUART
No.
MARY.
Gone off them has he? Has Johnny Apple Seed changed his ways?
STUART
I don't know.
MARY.
Maybe their not in season, although I would have guessed he would have a years supply on hand.
STUART
Where is your compassion?  He's a human being.  Doesn't that matter?
MARY.
Ask his wife and kid.
STUART
You know that's not possible. 
MARY.
That's right you can't.  The dead don't give up their secrets do they Stuart?  You can't hear the whispers from the lips of the dead.  
STUART
I'm going to grab a shower.
MARY.
You invited him into my house, the apple man was standing right there and your asking me if this is important?  Was he grinning like that night he murdered his family?
STUART
He made a mistake.
MARY.
He didn't wake up his wife...  he didn't even wake up his child.  You call that a mistake. 
PAUSE

They found him on the front lawn eating an apple, a grown man eating an apple while his family lay burning in their beds.   Jesus Christ Stuart your compassion is so misplaced.  Innocents were in that house.   Damn your misplaced compassion.  Damn your need to forgive, and damn your need to see the good.  You work me up you know that, you work me up.  Every time  I come out here you hit me with something.  It's always something with you.
STUART
There is a lot you don't know.
MARY.
There can't possibly be more.
STUART
Why do you always have to see the hate? 
MARY.
What does that mean? There isn't a soul in this neighborhood that would have him in their house.  
PAUSE

He burned his house down with his wife and kid inside.
STUART
It was an accident.
maRY
You don't accidently kill your child.
pausE

He burned it to the ground and ran away like a baby.  
STUART
He was never married.
MARY
He had a wife and child.
STUART
He's spent most of his life in the hospital.
MARY
He's spent most of his life in prison.

pAUSE

How can you be such a fool? 
STUART
He's my oldest friend. 
MARY
And what about the  furniture? 
STUART
The furniture?
MARY
You know what I'm talking about, tell me about the furniture.
STUART
I have no idea what you're talking about.
MARY
Tell me why the firemen couldn't make it up the stairs, why they couldn't reach the little boy?
STUART
We should be getting ready, lets not forget we have a date with Sally tonight.
MARY
You're such a coward.
STUART
She'll be waiting, and you know how shew gets.
MARY
Why did he pull all the nails and screws out of every piece of furniture in that house?  Why did that staircase collapse and trap his family? 
STUART
He never did that.
MARY
Not a screw in the house.
STUART
I'm going out to dinner. 
MARY
His family on the second floor and the staircase held together by god knows what.
STUART
I'm getting my jacket.
MARY
What kind of a madman does that. What was he hiding up those stairs?  
STUART
He's never hidden anything.
MARY
Then why?
STUART
I don't know.
MARY
Your a liar.
STUART
He was afraid.
MARY
Of what?  What could he have possibly been afraid of.
STUART

I don't know.
MARY
Tell me, go on tell me why johnny rotten apple seed would do that?
STUART
Please leave it alone.
MARY
Your lying. 
STUART
He didn't say.
MARY
He was standing right there, didn't you ask him?
STUART
No.
MARY
Well where is you're insight.  He's your friend.  Your best friend.  And you don't know.  

MARY (CONT'D)
More lies.
STUART

He's a human being.  He made a mistake.
MARY
Tell me why those stairs collapsed.  

STUART
He's only a man who wants to walk in the rain.
MARY
He murdered his family.
STUART
(To himself) The dead can't kill.
MARY
What did you say ?
STUART
Nothing. 
MARY
Did you say the dead ?  He was standing right there.  He's the only one that was left alive.  Grinning like a lunatic.  The bastard will rot in hell.       
STUART
I'm sorry.
MARY
You're sorry?  For what?  For being a fool?
STUART
For being a friend.
MARY
A friend to who?  His wife?  His child?
STUART
Please just stop.
MARY
Don't they not deserve your pity? Or doesn't you misplaced sense of loyalty have room for the victims, and the condemned.  
PAUSE

MARY
Why did he remove all the screws from that house?  

STUART
He was afraid.
MARY
Afraid, is that what you call it?  Afraid of what, child support?   He's a coward for what he did.
STUART
Being afraid doesn't make you a coward.  Sometimes we're afraid because we fear ourselves. We fear the things that we are capable of. I think the nails had to do with trust, they had to do with permanence and the collapsing of things when disturbed by others.  He didn't want to lose what he had, but I don't know, I honestly don't.  The man's a decorated war hero.  Doesn't that mean anything.... To anyone...
MARY
It means nothing to me, and it never will.  Why is it so  hot in here?  It  must be a 100 degrees. Open a window for Christ's sake.  
 
STUART
It's raining outside.

MARY
Someone has turned the heat on.  It's not normal. Something just isn't  right.  It's too hot in here.  How can you just sit there in this heat.  How can you be so calm?  It's not normal.
STUAR
It's not that hot.
MARY
Are you calling me a liar? Do you think I'm making this up?  Do you think I'm crazy?  Is that what you think? Do you think I'm the crazy one.  Oh That's rich, you think I'm the madman. Your friend running around in the rain eating apples, and you think I'm mad.  
STUART
I think your just tired.
MARY
I'm not tired, I'm hot.  It's 100 degrees in here.  Open a window.  
STUART
It's raining outside.
MARY
Then turn the heat down.  
sTUART
The heat's not on
MARY
Don't lie to me, stop telling me lies.  Your such  a Godamn liar.  You and the Godamn apple man.  Godamn you Stuart.  Godamn you and your misplaced compassion.

Act 3
Sally knocks on the door and enters the apartment.  Stuart and Mary are present. The action is continuous.  

STUART 
Someone's at the door.
Stuart gets up to answer the door Mary sits down.
Sally
I've been waiting baby.
STUART
We're just getting ready.
SALLY
Is Mary Up?
STUART
She's in the living room.
SALLY
Is she better?
Mary 
I'm fine, don't worry about me.  I can hear every word you two are saying out there.
SALLY
You had me worried hon.
MARY
I was just having a lie down, it was just a just a headache.
SALLY
Did you take a pill ?
MARY
It wasn't serious.
SALLY
You should take a tablet, all the worlds problems can be solved with the dissolving of little tablets. 
MARY
I'll be alright.
SALLY
Here I have some in my purse.
MARY
I'm not taking any pill, you're worst than him.
SALLY
We're just concerned.
MARY
How was Als?
SALLY
I didn't got to Als, I was at Charlies.
STUART
Here let me take your coat.
SALLY
Thanks hon, but we should really be going.

STUART
I'll get my coat.
MARY
Lets have a drink before we go.
STUART
We really should be going.
MARY
One drink. Sally can I make you a drink?
SALLY
Sure hon, bourbon if you got it.
MARY
Stuart, can you make Sally a drink?  I'll have a white wine.
STUART
Sure thing dear.
MARY
(To Sally)  The man has no manners.
SALLY
None of them do.
MARY
Why do we keep them in the house?
SALLY
They can lift heavy things honey, you never know when you might need that fridge moved.
MARY
Or the sofa.
SALLY
You see they come in handy.
MARY
But they're always eating, sometimes I wonder if they are worth it.
SALLY
Everything has a price baby, he's not so bad as far as they go.
MARY
I suppose your right.
SALLY
You know I am honey, you know I am.  Don't forget about the appliances.  
MARY
I've never seen him move the fridge.
SALLY
Are you telling me you've never cleaned behind that fridge.  Are you aware of the dust bunnies that can hide behind there.  Keep him around honey, you're going to have to face your demons one day.  You can't hide from the evil dust bunny for ever.
Stuart enters with the drinks.  
STUART
Here you go ladies one white wine and a bourbon.  
SALLY
Didn't you fix yourself one? 
STUART
I'll have one at the restaurant.
SALLY
Now honey how come you've never moved that fridge? Honey It's why we keep you around.
STUART
I knew there was a reason.
SALLY
Well now you know sugar.  Your the fridge mover.  
STUART
Well I guess that settles that.
SALLY
You were always a smart cookie.
STUART
Well thank you Mrs. Sally.  
SALLY

Keep him around honey, the man has potential.  He's just clay that needs to be shaped.  A regular diamond in the rough.
STUART
You here that dear, clay that needs to be shaped.  I like the sound of that.  What would that make Mary?  
SALLY
Why she would be the potter.  
STUART
Well there you have it, you're the potter.
MArY
You two are crazy.
STUART
Maybe you could do some of that shaping after we get home from the restaurant.  
MARY
I don't think so.
STUART
Hey Sally how's your fridge, had it moved lately?
SALLY
Honey I got a whole moving company at home.  Why that fridge is never in the same spot.  Hell there has been the odd occasion when I just can't find the silly thing.  Honey my place  is full of big husky men that like to move heavy appliances.
STUART
Well you have my number.
SALLY
It's right by the bed.
STUART
An obvious place.
SALLY
Smart as a cookie Mary. I'm telling you, he's a keeper.
mARY
He's getting older.
SALLY
With age comes experience.  You know what they say about older lovers?
MARY
What do they say?
SALLY
Now honey how would I know, I've never had one.  
MARY
Well thats something else we  share that in common.
StUART
Now wait a minute.  I'm your lover, I'm your clay.
MARY
How about some more white wine then lover.
sALLY
And a little bit of bourbon if your getting up.  But only if it isn't a problem sugar.
STUART
Do we have time, we really should be heading out to the restaurant.
SALLY
There's always time for a bourbon dear.
STUART
Ok, if you say so.  Let me go fix you ladies another drink .
SALLY
And get yourself one.  
STUART
I'll wait.
SALLY
For what honey? You can't spend your life waiting.  You have to spend your life living.
STUART
I'm just waiting for the restaurant, I will cut loose then.
SALLY
(To Mary)  So how are you?  Really?
MARY
I'm fine.
SALLY
Are you sure?
MARY
I'm OK.
SALLY
I'm worried about you.  You need to get out of this apartment.  You can't stayed cooped up in here. How is that boy of yours.....  he was always a handsome boy.  
MARY
He takes after his mother.
SALLY
And how's his wife, what's her  name again honey.  She's a cute little thing.
MARY
He doesn't bring her over.
SALLY
Why on earth not. A boy has to see his parents.  Where's that phone.
MARY
We've tried.
SALLY
I'll call him, he'll come over and see his Aunt Sally.  Can you imagine not visiting your parents.  Kids today.  
Stuart enters with the drinks.
STUART
Here you go ladies, another bourbon and another white wine. 
SALLY
Where is that son of yours?
STUART
He's probably at home.
SALLY
And why hasn't he visited?
STUART
It's complicated.  You know how father and son relationships are.
SALLY
I'll give him a call.
STUART
I've tried.  He's a very busy boy.
SALLY
Busy?  Too busy to see his mom.
STUART
Hey why don't we get moving.  We still have a full night ahead of us.
SALLY
Let me finish my drink honey.  And let me see if I can get that boy on the phone.
STUART
It would be best if you just left it.  
SALLY
Is that how you see it?
STUART
He's got a lot on his plate, he'll come over when he's ready.  I know my boy.  He just needs to think things through.  
SALLY
Children should visit their parents baby.
STUART
He just needs some time.
SALLY
How long has it been.
STUART
I don't know.
SALLY
You don't know.
STUART
Since the birth of Alex.
SALLY
That was four years ago.
STUART
It's been a while.
SALLY
Mary what's going on here?  Four years?
MARY
He's a stubborn boy.
STUART
Would you look at the time.
SALLY
Well I just don't understand what's gotten into kids these days.  There all so ungrateful.  You raise them, you do a good job and you get this.  You poor woman. Where's that phone?   
Someone knocks on the door,  Stuart gets up to answer it. It's Jimmy John Bob
jIMMY JOHN BOB
Thank god your still here man.  I got to tell you something.  Something wonderful has happened.  
STUART
Right now wouldn't be a good time.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Right now is the only time.  It's all about Steve McQueen man. 
STUART
Mary's up and her friend Sally is here.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Mary's up?
STUART
She's in the living room.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I thought she was sleeping.
STUART
She's awake now.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
How is she?
STUART
She's good.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I haven't seen Mary in years.
STUART
She's still a little tired.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
She works too hard.
STUART
She keeps herself busy.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
She's a good woman.
STUART
She sure is.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Who is she with ?
STUART
Her friend Sally.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Sally?
STUART
An old friend.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I should meet them.
STUART
Well they're private people.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
What does that mean?
STUART
You know, they like to keep to themselves.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
People got to meet people man.
STUART
I know.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I know you know.  Look buddy I need to tell you something.  I need you to listen to me.  I need to sit down and share something with you. 
STUART
Can't it wait till tomorrow?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Tomorrow?  
STUART
I'm home all day.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It has to be today, it has to be now.  It's about the boy.    
STUART
This just isn't a good time.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
The good times are behind us man.  
Jimmy John BOB pushes past Stuart into the living room.  Mary sees him.
MARY
My God.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Hi ya Mary.  You look great.
MARY
Where's Stuart?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
He's in the hall.
SALLY
Well hello there.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Hi there, you must be Sally.

SALLY
I sure am, and who might you be?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I'm a friend of Stuarts, Jimmy John BOB.
SALLY
Well that's a mouth full.
STUART
(To Jimmy John Bob) This isn't a good time.
SALLY
Get the man a drink Stuart, it's always a good time for a drink.
STUART
Come on pal.
SALLY
Where are your manners, fix our friend a drink.    And while your in their sugar get me a bourbon.  Go on don't dilly dally.
MARY
Stuart what's going on?
STUART
I don't know.
MARY
Don't Bullshit me.
STUART
I'll get those drinks.
SALLY
So where are you from, and why are you soaking wet?
jIMMY JOHN BOB
I've been out chasing Angels.
SALLY
Is that so.
MARY
Stuart get in here.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Angels have to run through the rain.  It's the downside of the job.
MARY
Stuart.
SALLY
You don't say, you know I never knew that.  I never knew that Angels had to work in the rain, but I'm young and there is a lot I don't know.  Well there you go,  ain't life a cobbler salad.  I'll tell you what, I can taste that Bourbon that's what.  Where is that boy with the drinks?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It's baptismal.  
SALLY
I'm sure it is honey.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It washes away our sins.
MARY
That's enough, I want you out of my house.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
And it puts out fires.  It can put out any fire lit by man.  It's the great vanquisher.  
MARY
I want you to leave right now.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It can quench your thirst and it can drown you.  It gives life and it can take it away.   Angels love the rain.
MARY
Please stop.
sALLY
Have you ever seen one?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I see them all the time.
SALLY
All the time, well that sure is a lot.
MARY
Please stop.  I don't want to hear this?
SALLY
OH honey, he's simple.  He means no harm.
MARY
There's nothing simple about him.
SALLY
Oh don't be silly.  So tell me hon what happens when you catch an Angel.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
They set you free.
SALLY
Why that sounds absolutely delightful.  
Stuart enters with the drinks.

STUART
Here you go, one bourbon, a white wine and an orange juice.
SALLY
Well that's a wonderful story.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It's the truth.
SALLY
I'm sure it is honey.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Stuart will tell you.
SALLY
Is that  right Stuart, if you catch an Angel they will set you free.
STUART
I don't know.
SALLY
Why haven't  you ever caught one.
STUART
He's only kidding.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
We've caught them together.
STUART
I don't remember that.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
We were kids. 
MARY
Stuart I want him out of my house.
JIMMY JOHN BOB  
Oh buddy where have you gone.  You were once the great magician.
MARY
Get out of my house.
sALLY
Now honey be nice.  Finish your drink and we'll go out for a bite to eat.  But be nice. The man is simple, aren't you dear, your simple.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Maybe I should go.
SALLY
Your not going anywhere, you haven't finished your drink and I want to hear more about the angels.  It's not everyday you meet a man whose captured one.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I think I should go.
SALLY
You stay right there honey.
STUART
I'll walk you to the door.
SALLY
Not you too. Talk is free.  Now tell me, these Angels, are they friendly.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Some are.
SALLY
That's interesting.  I would have guessed they would have all been.  I mean it is there business.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
The cold can upset them. 
SALLY
They feel the cold?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
As far as I can gather.
MARY
I'm calling the police.  Stuart I'm warning you.  If he is not out of my house within the next 30 seconds I'm calling the police.  Where is that phone?
STUART
Come on buddy we have to go.
SALLY
Will you take me angel hunting?
JIMMY JOHN BOB
If you would like.
SALLY
Well I certainly would.  I don't know about being set free though.  I mean I'm not trapped or caged.  But I certainly would like to catch one.  If only my first husband could here this.  He'd be sitting in that chair just having himself a good old laugh.  Sally he would say there aren't no such thing as angels.  Invest yourself in the belief in iron and steel, put your money in bonds they'll see you through.  Heck baby we'll go catch you a prize marlin, never mind this silly talk about catching angels.  We'll put the fish right on the wall honey, right up there on the mantel beside your Aunty Mabel  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
We all need to be set free.
SALLY
I'm sure we do sugar, I didn't mean to suggest otherwise.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
We're all trapped right here.  
sALLY
He'd rather catch a fish than catch an Angel. The man was a pragmatist, he left me with so much.  I don't want for a thing. I've got all the bobbles a women could want.
PAUSE
Stuart Honey one more drink for an old southern gal.
STUART
I'll get right on it.
SALLY
You do that baby.  All this talk of angels is making me a little sad.  Funny isn't it. Angels making me sad.  Aren't they supposed to make you happy.  I mean we're not talking about demons here.
MARY
You underestimate your opponent. 
SALLY
Now what does that mean?
MARY
We should go.
SALLY
We're all family here. 
MARY
Please don't say that.
SALLY
Oh be nice he's simple.
MARY
I have to go.
SALLY
We'll have one more drink.  Let's wash away all this sadness.
MARY
Stay away from him.  He only means you harm.
SALLY
Why he couldn't hurt a child.
MARY
Stuart tell her the truth.
StUART
Here's that drink.
MARY
Stuart tell her the truth, or I will.
STUART
(To Sally) Why don't I get your coat.
SALLY
There's too much fussing going on in this room.  We all need to sit down and just have a good talk, a good old southern yarn.
STUART
Let me just get your coat.

SALLY
You be nice over there, this man has the angels on his side.
MARY
He only has demons on his side.
SALLY
Now honey that ain't a nice thing to say.
MARY
He's the devil.  He doesn't chase angels, he hunts them down and he kills them. He kills them while they sleep.  Have you ever wondered why you've never heard an angel cry.
PAUSE
Have you?
SALLY
Well no.
MARY
Because they die in their sleep.  They die in their little jammies the ones with the stars and the little tin soldiers. 
PAUSE

They die holding onto their teddy bears and their dreams of little princess fairies.
SALLY 
Now what is this all about.
MARY
It's not about  forgiving.  It's about condemning.  
sALLY 
Honey, lets you and I go.  Let the Angel man stay.  Stuart you catch up with us later.  Have your chat, and when your ready meet us at the restaurant.  Mary how does that sound??
MARY
I'll get my coat.
SALLY
Now hon, if you catch another Angel you take a picture you here.  I would love to see one.  But try and catch a happy one, no one wants to see a sad angel.  
MARY
I want him out of my house.
SALLY
Lets just go sugar, Stuart you take care of things.
STUART
I'll try.
SALLY
You'll be fine. Bye y'all.  It's been a pleasure.  Angels and all. 
 
Mary and Sally leave.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
We need to talk.
StUART
I have to get to the restaurant.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Why aren't you free man, you caught the angel.  You keep running from the rain when you got to run into the rain.  It hides your tears man.  Man the birds are flying and the fish are frying.   The cat's walking up the drain pipe and the dog knows he's licked.  
PAUSE

You know you can't stay.  You know you don't belong. Embrace the beauty man.  You have to leave  here, the paint is pealing man, it's pealing right off the walls. Lets take that walk Stu, there's still time.  
PAUSE (CONT'D)
There's no life left in you. Boxes and Jam Jars are empty man, not people.  People aren't empty, people should be full of life.  An empty person is dead, can't you see that?  There needs to be a point to life.  You just don't go round for the heck of it.  It's not a carousel my friend, you're not sitting on a painted pony.  Little kids ride painted ponies, not men.  Men walk my friend.  They walk until they fall, and when they do the rain washes over them. 
PAUSE (CONT'D)

You caught the angel. Why can't you remember that?  Why can't you see that?.    
STUART
I don't know.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
I'm standing right here.
STUART

I'm afraid.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB
There's no need to be.  Fear only holds you still.
PAUSE
We have to go.
STUART
I don't want to.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
You haven't been out of this apartment in 15 years.  It's time you took a walk.
STUART
I have to call my son.  
JIMMY JOHN BOB 
You don't have a son.
STUART
But I have his number right here.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
Stu it's time to go.
STUART
One more call, just one more call.  He's coming over.  We're going to Charlies, we're going out for dinner.  The whole family will be there. 
Stuart grabs the phone dials a number, but he hangs up when he is interrupted by Jimmy John Bob.

JIMMY JOHN BOB
Let me  get your hat.
STUART
I don't wear a hat.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
You'll need it for the rain, it's coming down cats and dogs.
STUART
I need to call my son.
JIMMY JOHN BOB
It's going to be OK.
STUART
It's never been OK.

Lights down.  Lights up.  Man staring at Audience on couch. Phone ringing, then stops.

MAN

There it goes again.  This guy just won't go away.  When he first started to call I use to tell him to go fuck himself, but he wouldn't stop calling.  Crazy old man.  He's lost his grip on reality.  I should report him, but what good would that do?
R
Silence
BILL
I'm sorry about earlier. 
R
Silence
BILL
I can get a little carried away sometimes..
PAUSE
It's not always a bad thing, sometimes it helps me close the deal.  You'd be amazed at the amount of investment capital I've raised over the last 14 years.  
R
Silence
BILL
Jesus, I need to get a cover for that light. 
R
Silence
BILL
It's not easy raising capital in todays climate. Godamn Chinese will undercut you every time.  
R
Silence
BILL
Is that light hurting your eyes?  
R
Silence
BILL
I'll pick up a shade in the morning.  I'll get one on my way to work. I think there is a bulb and shade store on the way.  I never take notice of these things.  Worlds to big a place to be worried about the little things.   
R
Silence
BILL
I never realized how hard a bare bulb can be on the eyes.  I should put a 60 watt bulb in there.  
R
Silence
BILL
I don't know why I would have put a 100 watt bulb in there in the first place.  I'm usually pretty good with that sort of thing.  I've been a bit distracted lately. It's just that things at work are getting a little out of hand.  The economy starting to turn, and I'm being squeezed.  I'm surrounded by jackals.   
R
Silence
BILL
We need to hire more team players.  Not these gunslingers who never think of the future.  
R
Silence
BILL
Too many young turks.  Kids without values. There just little boys with hard dicks and no brains. They only think of themselves.  None of them have any values.  Good old fashioned values is what these little pricks lack.
R
Silence
BILL
Are you cold?
R
Silence
BILL
Last week one of these little bastards came into my office wanting some advice on a property acquisition that would need some outside leverage.  Fuck you I was thinking, learn it the hard way.  No one helped me.  I had no mentor.  I didn't have a Mr. nice guy in a corner office.  Suck a little dick before you come into my office son.  Get use to the taste.  What did he want a map?  Go back to business school you little bastard.  
PAUSE
Are you sure your not cold?
R
Silence
BILL
You look beautiful in this light.
R
Silence
BILL
This light really brings out the beauty in you.  It shines off your skin.  My God you have such beautiful skin.  
R
Silence
BILL
I'm sorry, I don't mean to embarrass you.  I just don't get many visitors.  
R 
Silence
BILL
I get lonely..... I know what your thinking.  Look around your thinking..... you have everything.  You're surrounded by so much, you're surrounded by everything a man could ever want.   

R
Silence
BILL
It's a golden cage.
R
Silence
BILL
Please don't cry.  
BILL (CONT'D)
You must be cold, your practically naked.  Did you have a sweater on when you came in?  I'm sorry I can't remember. Lately I've been exhausted.   I've got too much on the go.  I should exercise more.  Go for a run, get out of the office.  

R
Silence
BILL
I need to change that bulb.  A 60 cent bulb.  Who would of thought that  a 60 cent bulb could hurt the eyes.  
R 
Silence
BILL 
I have to get things back on track at the office, people depend on me.  They look to me for leadership and guidance.  Maybe you have seen me on television, is that why you let me buy you that drink.  Did I charm you on the box, was that it?
pAUSE

You know I  won the spelling bee in grade seven.  I spelled the word poignant.  I've always been a good speller, I just have a natural ability with words.  I can spell literally anything, I just have this gift.
PAUSE (CONT'D)

Are you interested in this, because if I'm boring you just let me know.  
R 
Silence
BILL
You know how to put a person at ease, that's your gift.  I feel I could tell you anything.  I feel  that we connected tonight.  
pAUSE

That's important ... connecting.  People have to connect.  They  have to be able to relate to each other. The world needs people to get together.  If you look around all you see is people at odds, we're all disconnected.  There's no common ground.  We just don't trust each other anymore.  There's just no trust left.  
R 
Silence.
PAUSE
BILL
I really need to change that bulb.   Who would of thought that  a 60 cent bulb could be so painful on the eyes. The world is full of light, and here I am faced with the dilemma that if I take out a 60 cent light bulb I'll be in complete darkness. I'm nearly a millionaire and  all that separates me from complete darkness is that Godamn bulb.  
PAUSE
Please don't cry. I'm sorry about all this I really am.   I just can't be alone anymore.  I've tried I really have, but people just don't like me.  If only they would just get to know me, but they won't.  I never wanted to hurt you.  I just get carried away.   This will be over soon I promise.  I just need to talk some more and then you can be at peace. I won't be rough again.  I just don't know my own strength.   I know how to put people at peace, I promise you won't feel a thing.

Lights down

Back to Stuarts Apartment.  Nurse Enters.  Nurse is Sally.  Stuart is gone.  The apartment is empty.  There are no decorations most of the furniture is gone the room is a hospital room.  There should be some furniture that connects the before and after, but it must resemble a room in an institution.  

Nurse
Honey it's time for your medication...  Stuart are you here?  

End