the telephone. He manages to look incredulous, joyful, and suspicious in varying degrees during the following conversation: WHITEY: …and you’re willing to donate the entire amount? Once again, you do know we need five hundred thousand dollars to purchase the theater? And you’re willing to come down here and give me a certified check for this amount on Monday? Why, that’s wonderful news! But say, wait a minute. (He frowns.) How do I know this is on the level? This could be some cruel elaborate hoax. I know the people at this theater and they can be a bunch of practical jokers. No—wait—don’t hang up! (Pleadingly.) I wasn’t accusing you of anything. Please don’t be offended. (He takes a handkerchief out of a desk drawer and mops his sweating brow and continues in a calmer tone of voice.) Just tell me how you heard of our theater’s plight. Oh, really? You say your former husband used to know someone who works here? And this is how you found out? Uh, which one? John Black, eh? That figures. Anyway, Mrs. Kingston, at your convenience on Monday, then? Yes, I’ll be in my office all day. And thank you so much for calling, Mrs. Kingston. (He hangs up the phone and turns to the audience.) Can it be possible? Can we really save the theater? END OF SCENE SCENE THREE: Whitey and Rev. Boyd THE PLACE: Same as Scene Two THE TIME: Tuesday, September 1, early afternoon As the scene opens Whitey is handing the Rev. Boyd a certified check for five hundred thousand dollars. D e s c e n d i n g
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