1

2

The Seasons of

JamesSmith Abbey A Heart-warming Christmas Comedy

By Debi Stodolka

© - August 2014

www.queenbeeproductions.org

3 Copyright – December 2014 This is my take on the series we all love “Downton Abbey” The life and times of a family doing life together along with their hired help and all the lessons each individual whether rich or poor have to learn. Staging Information: Run time: 120 minutes – Interactive with Dinner but can be done without. Cast: Sir Walter JameSmith - Highly respected wealthy Lord Ernst Rimfro Highly disrespected, arrogant, sarcastic

(Can be played by Sir Walter, different wig, costume) Lady Victoria - Wife of Walter, elegant, kind, The abbey favourite Lady Clair – youngest child of Walter/Victoria, stubborn, snotty, entitled Lady Tessa – the dream child, submissive to parents, kind, dreamy Lady Rosaline (Rosa) – Matriarch of Abbey, persnickety, eccentric. Demands respect Lady Edwina (Edna) Rosa’s sister – passive, gossipy, Nettie – maid, kindred spirit with Bettie, each others shadow, older person Bettie - maid, kindred spirit with Nettie, each others shadow, older person Ruby – kitchen Maid, brass, loud, obnoxious, bossy Hollis – kind, gentle ladies maid, servant, obedient Faith – orphan, sweet, feisty Minna - kitchen help, sarcastic, protective Brinly – sweet young ladies maid for Clair, Jasper – footman, diligent, trickster Leo – footman, attitude, sarcastic Cecil – cockney, senseless, clumsy, robber (wears a mask) Snake - cockney, senseless, clumsy, robber (wears a mask) Duncan – Chauffer, no sense of humour, stoic, impatient Gerard Butler – Butler, wise, tall and calculated (Cecil and snake can be played by Jasper and Leo, They have a mask on the whole time) Set: Scene 1 – Great room of JamesSmith Abbey, alternating with Servants Kitchen Scene 2 – Servants Kitchen, alternating with Great Room Scene 3 - Servants Kitchen, alternating with Great Room Scene 4 – Great room of JamesSmith Abbey, alternating with Servants Kitchen Year – 1920`s

4 The Seasons of JamesSmith Abbey

SCENE 1

(Period is early 1900’s in England, scene opens in the Great Room of JamesSmith Abbey with Walter Smith sitting in his chair playing his violin, It is the Christmas Season and there are maids and footmen in and out of the room. There is decorating going on and lots of cheer… Half way thru the song his wife Victoria (he calls her Tory) enters unobserved and listens)

Tory: Oh Sweetheart, I love it when you play! Walter: I didn’t know you were listening. (Puts the violin away) Tory: Yes I know, I also know that if you would have seen me, you would have

stopped….oh Darling I wish you would play more. Others should hear. It’s such a gift and you shouldn’t be hiding it inside yourself!

Walter: You always say the perfect words. I do believe you’re a little biased… but

enough of this. My Parents always taught me, there’s no time to waste on music when there’s work to be done!

Tory: And you know how I feel about your ((looks around) your parents

teachings....(Walks away) one day I pray you’ll see them as I do! (Big sigh) But for now, Maggie and Frederick Dunn will be arriving for afternoon tea so we can discuss your beautiful gift or lack thereof at a later date!!

Walter: (smiles) And I’m sure that later date will arrive quicker than I would like!! (He

picks up the paper) Where is my Mother by the way? Tory: Last I saw she was pouring her views on Gerard, poor soul!

Tessa: (Enters holding 2 hats) Daddy, Ma’ma I need help to choose what hat to wear for

the benefit tea this afternoon.. I have to look especially right as Lord Gavriel of Haverscham will be there and he’s so dashing I am just beside myself!

Walter: Is that Lord Witheringtons son? Tory: Yes darling, it is, He’s way too old for you Tessa and if I had half a mind, you

would not be going to this benefit!

5 Tessa: Ma’ma, he’s only 5 years my senior, and he is a proper gentleman. I’ve heard

say he’s inheriting the entire Witherington fortune…sole heir! And I am of proper age…You should be taking me there yourself Ma’ma!

Tory: (gives her the look) Where’s your sister? And where’s Brinly? (Rings for Brinly) Tessa: Clair’s still sulking about not coming with me to the benefit! Walter: Tell her she can come with me to the City. Apparently there are some new shops

that she might be interested in purchasing the last of her Christmas Gifts. Tory: Oh Walter you spoil her so! Walter: I don’t believe so! I can’t imagine always being stuck here when so much is

going on elsewhere. (Brinly enters) Brinly: Yes Your Ladyship? Tory: Please go fetch Clair for me! Brinly: Right away Your Ladyship (curtsy and exit) (Gerard enters with mail on a platter) Gerard: Excuse me Lord Walter, the mail has arrived! Tessa: Is there anything for me? Walter: (puts his paper down, picks up the letter opener) Thank you Gerard. Is the

weather all right for a drive to the city? Gerard: It’s a fine day Sir. Above average for this Christmas season! Shall I get the

carriage ready? Walter: Yes, be ready to leave within the hour! Make sure there’s an extra blanket. Gerard: Yes Sir! (He exits, and Rosa comes in quietly looking for something, trying to be

unnoticed) Walter: Good Morning Ma’Ma (She turns and stares at them a moment, then waves and

continues on,) What are you looking for? (picks up the first thing she sees)

6 Rosa: This! (Exits hastily)

Walter: (Puzzled, he goes back to his letters) Well indeed, here’s a letter for my Tessa! Tessa: What, for me! I was joking…(grabs it) who’s it from? Oh my goodness, I’ve

also been invited to Emily Pritchard’s for the Christmas Tea benefit for Lord Arnold Ribbentrop…Oh my!! When is that man going to realize he can’t possibly think I would be interested in him?….. Now he’s using my friend Emily to gain my affections!

Tory: Let me deal with that summons Tessa! Walter: Lord Ribbentrop is a fine man ladies, and you could certainly do worse elsewhere

my daughter! Tessa: (Horrified) Pa’Pa, I cannot believe you would even say such a preposterous

thing! Just the name, Ribbentrop!! Seriously Pa’Pa, Tessa Ribbentrop! I would be the humor of every social event!!! Plus…He’s twice my age!

Walter: (starts to smile) Who happens to have the best Estate and land this side of

England! (Tessa and Tory stare in horror, Walter bursts out laughing) I’m just joking! Close your mouth or you will surely have a bug fly in there!

Tessa: (Sits) Whew, you gave me a fright! Tory: I must say. You had me going there for a moment! Walter: All joking aside! He is a fine man, and I don’t blame him for wanting a fine

woman! But you must be careful, he is the nephew of your grandmother’s best friend… We must be discreet with our words so as not to cause offence. Even with his beautiful fortune, I wouldn’t give him my blessing if he begged me.

Tessa: I will be most careful Daddy!! Thankyou (hugs him) Now I must hurry and get

ready for the benefit this afternoon! I am so excited!!! What am I going to wear? (Rings and the butler comes in)

Gerard: Yes! Tessa: Sorry to make you run Gerard, but could you please send Hollis to my room? We

have much to plan for!

7 Gerard: Yes your ladyship, Will there be anything else? Tessa: No, thank you! (He exits and Tessa hurriedly exits, almost crashing with Clair,

Brinly enters behind her) Clair: (Screams) Watch where you’re going! Tessa: Clair, not even you can damper my excitement today with your pouty attitude!

Now out of my way! (She exits) Clair: It’s not fair that she gets to go to all the social events!!! (changes her demeaner)

But …..did I hear correctly from Gerard?….Am I going to the city with you Pa’Pa!! To see the new shops and do some last minute Christmas shopping?

Walter: Indeed you did my daughter! You and I are going as soon as the carriage is

brought round, so you need to go get ready! Clair: (kisses him on the cheek) Oh Thank you Daddy, I’ll go get my best dress on!!!

Brinly!!? Go on then, did you not hear! Go get my dress layed!! Brinly: Sorry Miss Clair (curtsies and exits, at the same time Hollis enters SR and exits

bkstage to Tessa’s room) Tory: Clair! Clair: I swear Ma’ma all she does is daydream, I want Elly back!! Tory: Walter! Walter: Clair, you know that can’t happen, Elly is long gone to Walester Estate

There is no going back now, I’m afraid! Clair: You’re just trying to punish me. I said I was sorry! Walter: Yes you did sweetheart, and that will be enough. This has nothing to do with

punishment. Now go on, get your best day dress on and meet me at the carriage before I change my mind!

Clair: (big sigh, Brinly enters unnoticed waiting) Fine, but Brinly will never be good

enough! Not like Elly! plus she’s not my type! She’s boring! AND she has the most ridiculous accent...I can hardly understand her! I just wish she would go

8 back to wherever she came from! (Hollis enters from Tessa’s room and exits SR to kitchen)

Walter: (Sternly) Clair!! (Brinly sadly lowers her head) Leave the room..NOW! (Clair

turns and sees Brinly, flits her chin and haughtily exits) My apologies Brinly, you may be excused.

Brinly: Yes, your Lordship. (She exits) Walter: (glances at Tory) Say no more my love, Clair will come along, you’ll see …she’s

young! Life has a way of teaching way better than we can! We must trust God with that one! (Tory turns away in frustration, Walter turns the other way… this is clearly a division between the two – Lights fade out CS and fade on to Dnst R)

SCENE CHANGE (Dnstg R In the servants quarters…There is hustling and bustling movement with

all the servants, 4 are seated at the table having tea….the cook is getting ingredients, and agitated etc, Christmas music is softly playing in background)

Ruby: Brinly!! (looking for her) Brinly!! The Scallywag, where is she? And where’s

my grocery order!! He’s late AGAIN! (Yells) Brinly!! Jasper: Won’t be findin her here…Miss Clair called her, in a hurry! I swear sometimes I

want to go in her place and give that spoiled rich brat a few of my words! Duncan: That I would like to see! (Laughs) Jasper: You just wait, I have almost saved enough money, and then I won’t care what

comes out of ma mouth! And I’ll be right pleased with putting that uppity young rich Clair girl in her place!

Minna: She thinks she’s all that! If she could see herself thru my eyes! Ruby: Don’t you all talk so harsh, you hear! Your tongues will get you into trouble!

mark my words. She’s just makin her way! Jasper: Accch!! Cecil: Its true….Don’t know how the Smiths ended up with one so tarny!! Oy she’s a

crank

9 Hollis: Don’t be so Daff, no time to be rude… There’s a lot going on today, Tessa has

been invited to Lord Gavriel of Haversham’s, Tis so exciting. He’s the most handsomest man in this area, I shall hope I can accompany her!! (Cecil bursts out laughing)

Duncan: Oh Brotha! Minna: (mocks) Do up your hair pretty Miss Hollis….maybe he’ll look your way instead

of Lady Tessa’s! Hollis: That’s not what I meant! Ruby: We got work to do….

Jasper: (Arrogantly) Oh sweet Hollis, you need to understand exactly what handsomest

means!!! How about I show ya! (starts toward her, Hollis reacts) Duncan: Watch it…she’ll knock ya out! Hollis: ach! You’re just jealous. Ya haven’t been in the company of a real woman for

so long you wouldn’t know if one hit you between the eyes! (To Cecil) and what are ya laughing at? (He puts his head down) why don’t you go muck about with the horses!

Jasper: Ohhhhhh scary!!! (mocks her) Cecil: (Stands in anger) Why don’t you….

Ruby: (looks offstg) Cecil, can you go find what’s keeping Brinly!! (Cecil doesn’t

move) I wish she wasn’t called to be Lady Clair’s charge….I need her! Who do they think I am! Elly leaving has thrown a whole lot of extra work my way! I need the potatoes from the cellar. Jasper will you be a chap and go get me the potatoes? I’m running behind as it is!! Cecil!! GO GET BRINLY!!!!

Cecil: She’s aiding Lady Clair! I’m not going up there to get thrown out of the room!!

Plus I’m.. still.. eatin! Ruby: Oh my !! JASPER!!! The potatoes!! Jasper: Alright!!! Too much drama in here anyways!!

10 Hollis: pftttttt!! (He exits, as Nettie and Bettie enter) Cecil: I’m curious Miss Hollis, How does one know if they’re in the company of a real

woman? Hollis: What you goin off about now!? Cecil: Well you’ve been in the company of a real man for a while! You ain’t noticed!

So maybe there’s no real woman in my midst! Hollis: Achh, you’re just all mouth and no trousers!! No better than Jasper Ruby: Stop it you two! (To Nettie and Bettie) Well…. did the laundry get done? Nettie: Yes! And the beds are finished! Bettie: I was finished the dustin before Nettie finished the beds. Nettie: You were not! I saw you still dustin when I walked by at the end of my duties! Bettie: You must be seeing things then, cuz I was done! (To Ruby) She can’t face that

I’m quicker at my job! Cecil: (starts to laugh) wanna do my job too Hollis: Close it Cecil, it’s not your business! Nettie: Quicker!! That’s rubbish and we both know it! You’re no more quicker than a

turtle! What do you think I’m on you all the time for? Duncan: Someone shoot me! Bettie: I`m faster! Nettie: No, you’re not. (looks at the others) Don’t believe her!! She’s spoofin!! Hollis: Do you two ever quit! Who cares who’s faster? Cecil: ya can tell they’re from Canada! (Minna hits him)

11 Bettie: Don’t get your knickers in a twist Nettie! A little competition is good for the

soul! Makes ya a better servant girl!

Nettie: Speak for yourself, I’m a woman! And I was done before you! no doubt about it! (She hastily exits)

Duncan: Somebody at least knock me out! Bettie: Oh Nettie, your so fun to tease! (Follows her)

Ruby: (puzzled) Don’t forget to pick up the Christmas Groceries!! (They wave and exit) Minna: oh those two make me knackered! (Brinly sits dejected) Brinly, why the long

face? Brinly: She hates me ….I don’t know what I will do if they send me back. You are the

only family I have! I would be lost! Duncan: They wouldn’t send you back? Ruby: Ssssh Duncan! Hollis: You not goin back...don’t worry! Brinly: Promise? Minna: If you go…I go! There’s strength in that! (Ruby answers it, Faith enters

all dirty and out of sorts) Ruby: Go away…We don’t let beggars in! Faith: Please Mum, I’ll work for some food! Ruby: What!! When did you eat last!? Faith: I don’t know…I don’t eat much…please, I’m so hungry! Ruby: (Conflicted) Just a minute! (Hollis goes to her) Hollis: Come in then! (Faith enters) what’s your name?

12 Faith: Faith Minna: (warning) Hollis!! Hollis: Well that’s a beautiful name, where do’ya live? (Faith stares at her) come on, tell

me? Where do’ya live? Faith: Wherever I can lay my head is where I live. Hollis: (Shocked) Where’s your mum, an dad? (No answer again) Where’s your kin

Faith? Faith: Died is all I know, I was a wee baby. Hollis: You have nowhere to be for Christmas then? Minna: Hollis!!! Ruby: (Interrupts) Ok that’s enough Hollis, (To Faith) I have some food here, but you

must go? Faith: I can work, I’m strong! (Shows her muscles) Ruby: Makes no matter here! I have orders and you must leave! Hollis: (Pleading) Ruby! Minna!! Come on.. She has nowhere, parents died! It’s

Christmas!! Minna…You and Brinly know all about that, you can’t let her go!! Minna: Well maybe if…. Ruby: You all be quiet!! Lord Walter is the boss here, not I! An if Gerard got wind of

this he would let us all go! Hollis: We can talk to him! Please, she’s just a child! I will take charge of her! Let her

stay, just for awhile at least! She can stay in my room! Please! Ruby: I dun know! Minna: Never worked in the past…but one never knows today!

13 Hollis: Right!! With Brinly as Lady Clairs charge, you won’t have any help! Faith here

can be your runner! right Faith? Faith: Yes mum, I’ll run harder than anybody! See …(She runs from one end to the

other) Ruby: Oh stop it …all of you!…(goes into thought) alright! But you get paid nothin,

and you run harder than you even think you run! I’ll talk to Gerard, no guarantees! Agreed? (Puts her hand out to shake Faiths)

Faith: (smiles at Hollis) Agreed, (hugs Ruby) Hollis: Come on, let’s go get ya settled! (They exit, Ruby sits) Ruby: What ‘ave I done! (Minna sits beside her)

Cecil: He’ll have your heads! (Laughs) (Lights fade to blackout – lights come up CS)

(SCENE CHANGE back to JamesSmiths living room)

(Lady Rosa enters suspiciously, starts to frantically look for something – Tory

enters) Tory: What are you looking for Ma’ma? Rosa: Misplaced my watch? Tory: (holds up a pill bottle) Are you sure it’s not your medication? Rosa: Where did you find that? (Grabs it) Tory: Come now, lets not play games, you were looking for this were you not! Ma’ma

you must let me help you. Your son would never forgive himself if anything happened to you.

14 Rosa: You tell my son NOTHING, you hear! I’m fine. I just misplaced my medicine,

there is no harm in that. Tory: That would be true, if it was just once....but you misplace it several times a week!

You’re forgetting more and more all the time!! Why don’t you let me give you your medicine everyday and no one would be the wiser? (Walter enters)

Walter: How are my beautiful ladies today? Rosa: (quickly sits on sofa beside Tory, whispers) That will be fine when I’m old and

decrepit and have no mind to do it myself! (slowly turns to Walter, clears her throat) Were doing fine!

Walter: My ladies look like their both in dapper moods! Anything I can help sort!? Rosa: What’s on your agenda today? Tory: Changing the subject?? Walter: What Subject? (They both ignore him) Tory: (Rosa non-verbally pleads silence) Just ……issues that women have to talk thru!

Nothing to bother yourself over! Walter: Alright! (Looks awkward) What’s on your agenda today Ma’Ma? Rosa: Lady Edna and Lord Renfrew are coming for tea. Walter: Well…..I just remembered that I’m to go riding this afternoon! Have a nice

day…( starts to exit SR) Rosa: How convenient! You haven’t seen your cousin Ernst for months…you couldn’t

just stay for tea? Walter: Ma’Ma, I have seen enough of my pompous cousin to last me a lifetime….and all

Aunt Edna will talk about is how much we look alike! I want to be nothing like him, and I don’t want to be in his presence! Especially with his last stunt of thievery….I don’t trust him and I will not be subject to his arrogance! (To Tory) you should have the servants dust one more time before he comes….save yourself the arrogant comments! Give Aunt Edna my regards! (he exits)

15 Rosa: Walter!!!! I`m not finished (He continues to exit, she taps her cain loudly on

the floor) Walter!!!!! (He ignores her and exits) He’s too hard on his cousin. Tory: Really Ma’Ma? He’s just protecting his family! Ernst is a liar, and a thief….I

don’t blame Walter for not being here! He has forgiven him, but to expect them to spend time together when nothing has changed is a different story!

Rosa: (Snitty) Fine!!! Where are the girls? They should be here to at least see their

great Aunt! Tory: I’m not sure where Clair is and Tessa and Aileen will be gone for the day to see

Lord Gavriel of Haversham! Rosa: Aileen? Who’s Aileen? For heavens sakes, one can’t keep up with all the friends

these days!!! Tory: Aileen? Ma’Ma…Aileen!! Tessa’s best friend…(looks worried) Rosa: (turns away) Oh that Aileen. (laughs nervously) Of course. (Pretends) I thought

you said Eileen! Tory: Ma’Ma you don’t remember her? Rosa: (Ignores her) Have you lost your mind, letting Tessa go see….uhm, …. That

fellow…(has forgotten again) That Lord of ……Haversham! Yes..him!!!?…. he’s a chat up! At least Lord Ribbentrop is calm and respectable.

Tory: And old!! I see that you heard he called on Tessa. Rosa: Have I heard!!! The whole Hamlet has heard!! And Might I add…I do

NOT…LIKE…SECOND…HAND…NEWS!!! Tory: GAVRIEL is a flirt, but also of well rounded character! And respectable! AND

he’s more her type. She’s just gone for afternoon tea. There is no harm in that!

Rosa: Is Lord Gavriel coming for Christmas Dinner? Tory: They’ve only just met! Rosa: Considering his fortune, I’m surprised he wasn’t invited last Christmas!

16 Tory: MaMa, you are.... Rosa: Be cautious my daughter in law!! Tory: Why are you so headstrong! (Picks up crocheting and pretends to ignore her) Rosa: What’s planned for Christmas dinner tomorrow!? Tory: Not this again! Rosa: What’s that?…I didn’t hear you! Tory: (Frustrated)The same as every year Ma’Ma! We’ll hand out gifts and we’ll

have our dinner! Rosa: And who will be sitting at our Christmas Dinner table? Tory: Ma’Ma…(Rosa ignores her) Rosalina!! Look at me!! Rosa: NO! Tory: Ma’Ma!!!! (Rosa slowly looks at Tory) You must stop this! The servants have

their celebration, and we have ours …They are fine! They are hired and paid well for all they do here! Why must you bring this up every year!!

Rosa: It saddens me that at this most incredible celebration of the year, The Lord’s

Birth…we cannot simply put aside our ranks and celebrate together! And as you know, The good book holds many scriptures to back me up!

Tory: Yes I know!!! You’ve made that clear year after year! You’ve shown me the

scriptures, but the answer is still the same, and I won’t discuss this with you yet again!

Rosa: And I won’t quit badgering you my lovely daughterinlaw!! And THIS won’t be

struck from my memory, (gets up) I shudder to think of what it will take….until… until I….

Tory: Until you what? (Gerard enters) Gerard: Lady Edwina and Lord Renfrew have arrived your Ladyship!

17 Tory: Send them in Gerard. Thank you! (He exits) Until you what Ma’Ma? Rosa: Never mind! Tory: I will not nevermind….Until you what!!!!! Rosa: (Pushes past her -Gerard shows Lady Edwina and Lord Ribbentrop)

Welcome Edna, Ernst….We are so delighted you could make it! Gerard, we will have some tea!

Gerard: Right away! (He exits) Edna: How is my Sister? Rosa: Oh, you know (Glares at Tory) Tory: It’s so good to see you Aunt Edwina, (cheek kisses them both) Ernst, I have a

guest list to prepare for Christmas, and so I will leave you to your visit! Nice to see you!!

Edna: You’re not having tea? Tory: Not this time I’m afraid. Ma’Ma didn’t tell us you were coming and I have so

much still to prepare for Christmas! Edna: Well it was a little impromptu if I must say! Ernst: Where’s Walter? Tory: Walter went riding this afternoon…If he knew you were coming, I’m sure he

would have made alternate plans! (Cecil brings in tea) Ernst: oh Yes ……I’m sure he would have! (gets arrogant, declares behind Tory)

Please do tell him that I purchased the Lexton land. I heard his deal fell thru…I couldn’t let it leave the family! I’m sure he’ll be thrilled, I wanted to tell him myself but obviously he’s not here. (He wipes his finger on the table for dust)

Tory: (Glares at Rosa) Oh Yes, I’m sure he’ll be thrilled! Good day! (She exits

angrily)

18 Rosa: Ernst, sit for now and have some tea! We have much to catch up on, don’t we

Edna! Edna: Oh yes! Come on my son, sit! Ernst: (He smiles, flips his tails out, sits and sips his tea) Is this not English Breakfast? Rosa: We only serve English Breakfast Ernst! Ernst: Maybe it was not properly brewed! Your servants do lack in many areas! Edna: Never mind about the tea…(To Rosa) How are you my sister?? How is your

memory? I’ve been so worried after the last time we talked! Rosa: Edna! (looks at Ernst) Ernst: Oh don’t mind me. Just pretend I am not here! I know you are losing it….its not a

secret! Edna: ERNST!! That’s uncalled for! Ernst: Oh fiddle, Ma’Ma. Don’t get your knickers in a twist…. Aunt Rosalina knows

she’s my favourite…its all good, right Aunty Rosa? (snidely smiles at her) Rosa: Of Course! (whispers) that was private Edna, just between you and I. Edna: I’m sorry! (glares at him) I just want to hear all about you! Your memory? Is

it any better? Rosa: (looking at Ernst) I’m afraid not, and my heart is failing as we speak… I

sometimes forget the staff’s names? I’m so afraid I’ll forget their faces! I forgot that Aileen is Tessa’s best friend…I’ve known Aileen her whole life…. What will I do Edna, if I forget my family!? Forget you?

Edna: (Takes her hand) We’ll all be right there inside your heart!! I’ll walk with you

every step.… I don’t understand your trial, but I know God is in control! Ernst: (butts in with a fork in his hand) You need new servants Aunty Rosa…they are

not cleaning your silver properly! Not to mention that it is just strewn about so carelessly….this should be put away! Hidden so no one steals it… Obviously the Lord of JameSmith Abbey is too trusting! (Both women glare at him)

19 Rosa: The Lord and Ladies my dear newphew! We see no reason to put a beautiful

display of silver hidden away! We have no reason to mistrust, do we? Edna: Ernst, if you have something to say…just say it! Ernst: Well! If I had Silver like this, I would just be more careful! That is all….It’s

worth a fortune! (Ernst smirks as he looks at himself in the spoon)

(BLACKOUT) (The family are in a straight line at back of stage, Lights fade in CS, All the

servants line up to receive Christmas gifts from the family) Tory: (Hollis approaches) Hollis, Thank you so much for all your hard work! We are

indebted to you! Tessa is very pleased with your service! Merry Christmas! Hollis: Thank you so much Your Ladyship, Lord Walter! Tory: (Ruby approaches) Ruby, You are the best cook! Thank you so much for all you

do! We so appreciate you! (Hugs her and gives her the gift) Ruby: Thank you so much your Ladyship (Nods a lot, Goes on down the line and shakes

the family’s hands!) Walter: (Duncan approaches) Duncan, you’re a great footman, we are blessed to have

you! Thank you for all you do! (Gives him a handshake and a gift) Duncan: Thank you Sir, …..Your Ladyship! (Goes on down the line This continues until

all the servants have been given a gift! Same basic lines per servant!)

When all the servants are done receiving their gifts,

Walter: Merry Christmas to you all! Once our dinner is served and finished, you may all have the rest of the day off! God bless you all! (they all speak their thanks together and exit)

Tory: Now then…Merry Christmas to our beautiful family!

Shall we exit to the Dining Room (She escorts them Offstage SL) (They all exit except Rosa who’s nose is bent out of shape….Walter comes back

in)

20 Walter: Ma’Ma are you ok? You’ve not been right since Ernst was here! Rosa: No Ernst has nothing to do with my mood I can assure you! …However, next

time you go riding when he’s here, I will join you!….I am though, a little put out!! Just a little…..Oh Walter…..I just wish that the servants….

Walter: (Interupts) Ma,Ma, Please! Just come and enjoy your children and

grandchildren….It’s Christmas! Rosa: (starts to speak, Walter puts his hand out for hers, she takes it) Fine! (Grumbly) I

will enjoy my Christmas! Walter: (He Kisses her hand) Thank you my most favourite Mother! Rosa: (Gives him a look) Pfffft (They exit) Black Out – END SCENE - SERVE DINNER

21 SCENE 2

(Scene opens up in the kitchen, with several servants having coffee, It’s Spring time - Ruby and Minna are running around like usual! All the servants are doing something, eating, shining shoes etc...some coming and going…Hollis and Faith are playing a hand game together with string….Brinly is helping Ruby etc, Gerard enters angry)

Gerard: Miss Ruby, may I have a word with you? (Everyone freezes) ALONE! (All

exit, Hollis stays back and eavesdrops) Minna: (whispers to Ruby as she exits) God be with you my friend!!! Gerard: (Gerard paces) Would you mind explaining ……Faith!? Ruby: Yes…I can explain sir! Gerard: Yes….that is what I asked!! Ruby: Sir, she was starvin, and she lost her kin when she was a wee one and she was

alone for Christmas and well, she works hard, she’s bin such a great help to me and the others!

Gerard: Did you say Christmas!? She’s been here since (Raises his voice) Christmas!!! Ruby: Yes sir! Gerard: She’s been here for 4 months, and I have been told nothing!!! Ruby: I planned of tellin ya a dozen times sir, but…..the timin was just never right!

Remember when I asked to see ya in your office so many times? But you were so busy.

Gerard: Don’t you even try and put the blame on me for this! You know I would have

wanted to know! How did you hide her? Ruby: Hollis has been hidin her… But I take full responsibility! Please Sir, try and

understand!! Gerard: Yes you will take full responsibility for finding her a good home to go to,

effective immediately!!!

22 Hollis: (Breaks in) No! (They both turn) I mean…..please Sir, she’s just a young

one! She lays her head in my room, she’s been no bother and she works so hard. She’s like the little sister I’ve never had and I can’t bear the thought of her not being here!

Minna; (Enters) We beg of you to grant mercy to this little one! Please!! Gerard: How many more are behind the door? (Everyone else enters) Jasper: She’s become one of us! Gerard: (Deep sigh) Oh you have all put me in a terrible place! If you would have to

come to me directly, this would not be an issue! Ruby: If we would have come directly, she wouldn’t be here! Hollis: Sir! If I may….Is it not in God’s Holy word to take care of the orphans? Gerard: This is NOT my home, I’m just in charge of running it smoothly! This is NOT

smooth!!! And do not lay scripture on me!! Hollis: (bows) My apologies Sir! Gerard: (Conflicted) She works hard you say!? Ruby: Yes, very hard and without any recompense! We just feed her and give her a

warm place to lay her head! Gerard: I can’t promise what will come of it, but I will talk to Lord Walter! And you

had all better be saying a prayer that he is in a good mood!!! Now be about your work!!

Ruby/Minna: Thank you Sir! Hollis: Thank you!!

(Lights fade to blackout)

(Lights fade in CS with Clair sitting upright in a chair looking at herself in a hand held mirror – scene starts with Brinly entering with a vase of fresh flowers)

23 Brinly: (puts the flowers on the wall table) There you go Lady Clair, Fresh flowers as

requested! Clair: Are they yellow as I instructed? Brinly: Mostly yellow My Lady! Clair: (she gets up and thrusts flowers at Brinly) Next time I ask for yellow, I want

JUST yellow, do you understand that? Brinly: (bows her head) Yes my lady! Shall I go look again for just yellow? Clair: No, You failed to do as I asked…. once again….. I no longer want them…just

leave! Once you bring me a cold drink that is! (Brinly nods and exits, Walter enters and looks at the mail…. Tory, Tessa are talking as they enter)

Tessa: Oh Ma’Ma that is priceless! I didn’t know that Grandma’ma knew Lord

Gavriel…why didn’t you tell me…Does she approve? Walter: I cannot believe you are even asking!! (sits) Tory: You know Grandma’ma!! (rosa enters) Rosa: Did I hear my name? Tory: Just telling Tessa that you know Lord Gavriel! Rosa: Oh yes that Chat up! Tessa: What was that Grandma’ma? Rosa: Has anyone seen my glasses? Walter: They are on your head Ma’ma? (Holds back a smile) Rosa: (pauses and stares) You don’t have to look so smug (exits) Tessa: (Sits beside Tory) What did she say about Lord Gavriel Ma’Ma? Clair: (Mockingly) Lord Gavriel!!!!

24 Tory: There you are Clair! We were wondering if you would like to go to

Haversham this afternoon with us for a spring walk. It’s so beautiful outside, a shame to waste it!

Clair: (Sits on other side of Tory) With Lord Gavriel I suppose?

Tessa; And what is wrong with Lord Gavriel my sista! Clair: I’m just so tired of hearing his name in this house! Lord Gavriel this and Lord

Gavriel that….Oh, how do I look Ma’Ma, Lord Gavriel is coming ova!!! Which hat shall I wear….giggle giggle giggle!! (Brinly brings in Ice tea)

Brinly: (to Tory and Tessa) Would you like some ice tea as well? Tor/Tess: No thank you (Brinly exits) Tessa: Ma’Ma, I think you should send Clair away to a boarding school…foreva!!!

She is beyond help! Tory: Now girls, be kind to one another! Clair, you just wait until some dashing

young man someday catches your eye! Clair: I hope you gouge my eye out if that happens! Tory: Clair!! Walter, will you please talk your daughters? (He ignores her) Tessa: I will gouge your eye out …..gladly!! (They start slapping eachother over top

of Tory) Tory: Tessa! Both of you! Stop it! Walter!!! (Nettie and Bettie enter with cleaning

supplies) Walter: Hello Nettie, Bettie Net/Bet: Hello Your Lordship (curtsie) Tory: (Glares at the girls) Are we in your way? Bettie: Nettie said you wouldn’t be in here! Nettie: I never said that! I thought….

25 Bettie: You said….We can clean the great room right after dinner was served! Nettie: I said!! If it pleases (smiles with embarrassment) Her Ladyship, we will clean

after they’ve gone for the afternoon! Bettie: She did not say that! Nettie: I did so! Bettie: the other thing you said was… Nettie: I’m so sorry your Ladyship, Bettie and I will come back later!! Tory: That will be fine! (hiding a smirk) Bettie: (as she’s being dragged out) let go of me! Nettie: Will you be quiet! (They exit, bickering) Tessa: Oh my!!! Walter: Well I think I’ve had enough women for one morning!!! Tory: Walter!! Walter: I have work to do in the study! Have a good walk…see you at dinner! (Kisses

Tory) Tessa: You’re not coming? Walter: And miss complete boring silence in my Study! Never!! (starts to exit) Tory: One moment… (nervous)I need to tell you something….. Ernst bought the

Lexton land! Walter: He did did he? ……. (Smiles) Good, I turned it down because I found out it

was worth nothing because of the water table! (Walter exits) Tory: (smiles) Oh I see Clair: Ma’Ma…Why do you insist on keeping those Nettsie and betsie employed!!!

Iris’s parents have respectable servants!!

26 Tory: (Turns to her) It’s Nettie and Bettie and I quite enjoy them myself, and…. We

are not Iris’s parents!! Tessa: Well they’re certainly entertaining!...(Stands)….I will meet you at the Carriage

Ma’Ma, and if it pleases you Clair, maybe you can find a sunny disposition and come with us!! I have to go get ready… I must look my best for (overdramatizes to Clair) LORD GAVRIEL!! (she exits)

Clair: You are the one that needs a boarding school!! Tory: (Clair tears up) Clair, what is wrong!? Clair!!! Come on, tell me!! Clair: I don’t know! Tory: (pauses) Your turn is coming! Clair: I’m not jealous!!! ……….well maybe just a little! But certainly not for Lord

Gavriel! He’s ugly! Tory: (hugs her) Oh Honey….You are so beautiful. When you come of age, I will

have to put servants all around you to protect you from all the suitors!! Your father will be beside himself!!

Clair: You’re just saying that! Tory: No I am NOT just saying that!! (long pause) why don’t you go and get your

jacket and come with us! Come on, It’s such a beautiful day… it will be fun! …. Just us girls! And Lord Gavriel (dramatized)

Clair: Fine! I’ll come, (kisses her) thankyou MaMa! (she exits, Tory rings for

Gerard) Gerard: Yes Your Ladyship? Tory: Gerard, we are going to Haversham for the afternoon. Can you please have

Duncan bring the carriage to the front! Gerard: Yes right away…(He starts to exit and slowly turns back) Might I have a word

with you for a moment Your Ladyship? Tory: Yes of course Gerard. Is everything ok? (Unknown to both, Rosa enters and

stays hidden)

27 Gerard: Yes,… I mean…well ….we have a situation! Tory: A Situation? Sounds serious!! Gerard: Well….Miss Ruby, Miss Minna and Miss Hollis took it upon themselves to

give refuge and shelter to a young girl of 8. Tory: Really? Gerard: Since …(Clears his throat)....Christmas! Tory: Oh Really? And what is your take on this Gerard? Gerard: Well….they’ve grown quite fond of this girl, her name is Faith! She was a

street orphan, her parents died.. and apparently she has been quite helpful in the kitchen, and respectful to all considered!

Tory: Have you consulted Lord Walter? Gerard: I was hoping you would do that My Lady! Tory: (smiles) I’ll see to it Gerard! I’m so glad I have a butler with such a kind heart! Gerard: Thank you my Lady! Tory: I shall want to meet her later today. Gerard: Yes, I will have her ready upon your return! Tory: Thank you! (Gerard exits) Rosa: Well well, (Tory turns) Taking in Orphans now are we? Tory: Eavesdropping is rude!! Rosa: You’ve made my heart happy!! Tory: I didn’t say she could stay. I said I’d talk to Walter and meet her myself! Rosa: You won’t turn her away! And pretty soon, they’ll all be sharing Christmas at

our dinner table! The way it should be!! (Starts to exit looking around)

28 Tory: What are you looking for? Rosa: I seem to have misplaced my glasses again, I need them attached to my eyes? Tory: Ma’Ma (Tory looks at Rosas hand, Rosa slowly looks down and sees them in

her hand) Lights fade to blackout Lights fade in DwnSt Left in servants lounge, Jasper is playing a drum, All the

servant men are all singing along, an old folk tune (your choice eg, swing low, sweet chariot – they sing the whole song and then break into laughter when scene starts)

Duncan: Wow Mate, when did you learn to play the drum like that? Jasper: My Father taught me! Cecil: Blimey!! That was Gobsmackin fun!! Haven’t sung like that since I was a boy! Duncan: And I would suggest you don’t quit your job to go into singin please! (Cecil

hits him) Cecil: Lets hear some more! (They sing a couple lines before being interrupted by

Gerard) Gerard: Do we pay you to sit around and disrupt the entire household with this

bedlam?…..One cannot hear ones self think around here! Duncan: Come on Gerard!! Sing a tune or two with us! Jasper here is ace on the drum!!

(He prods Jasper to start again) Gerard: ENOUGH of this rubbish…..there is plenty to do around here and I suggest it

gets done! Cecil: Never a moment to rest in this place! Duncan: We have nothing else to do until the family gets back! Gerard: Then you will all report to Miss Ruby for Kitchen duty until they get back!

(Duncan exits in anger)

29 Jasper: Fine! But you’ll be hearin a lot more in the future! You can’t take the beat

outta the drum! (As soon as they’re all gone, Gerard slowly, while watching behind his back goes to the drum and sits down and tries to play it! Off beat he sings vs 3, out of tune, but with his whole heart, Cecil, Duncan and Jasper are watching from BackSt, slowly they start to laugh, and eventually fall into the room in hysterical laughter and then quickly get up and run with Gerard in pursuit)

…lights fade to blackout and slowly fade in Upstage CS Duncan, Jasper and Cecil all enter SL trying to escape Gerard while holding in laughter making their way across the stage and exiting SR Gerard is still in Angry pursuit) Tory, Tessa and Clair are all doing petty point projects)

Tory: Gerard? (He turns back towards her, as he watches the 3 men exit) Gerard: Yes Your Ladyship Tory: (quietly so the girls don’t hear her) I am available to see this young

child…Faith? Right now if that would work? Gerard: Absolutely My Lady, I will bring her straight away! Tory: Thank you! Gerard: You’re welcome (He bows and exits) Clair: What girl is he bringing in?....What are you talking about!? Tory: You’ll see!

(Lights fade in DWNST R, as Gerard enters next scene…. The female servants along with Cecil who is just sitting doing nothing until Gerard comes in are busy getting the meal ready, folding laundry etc, Cecil jumps up and pretends to be busy…Faith is eating a snack, but jumps up and hides behind Hollis)

Gerard: Hollis, Get this Faith girl ready to meet Her Ladyship…and I suggest she is prepped with proper behaviour! Do we understand each other?

Hollis: (gets up) Yes Sir! Gerard: I will be waiting with Lady Victoria! Make Haste!

30 Hollis: We’ll be right there Sir! Gerard: (Starts to exit) Oh and Cecil, you are now on trash duty! NOW!! (Gerard

glares at him) Cecil: (Gets up) Sock!! (exits hurriedly) Gerard: I beg your pardon (exits) Hollis: (As soon as Gerard leaves) Alright! (Sits beside Faith) This is your moment!

EVERYTHING hinges on this! You must be so polite and sweet…(she nods) And don’t speak unless asked to! That’s very important!

Faith: Yes Ma’am! Ruby: And whatever you do…don’t be distracted by all the pretty things, focus on Her

Ladyship. ……look right in her eyes!!! Faith: Yes Ma’am…….(looks distressed) Minna: Why ya lookin like your goin to your death? Faith: What if she doesn’t like me? Hollis: It’s not possible sweet Faith! There’s nothing to not like!! I’ll be right beside

you! (Takes a deep breath) Alright! …..Let me fix your hair! (Quickly primps her hair, straightens out her dress) Ready? (Faith nods yes) Let’s say a quick prayer! (they all bow their heads) Heavenly Father, we ask for you to show Lady Victoria the incredible nature of sweet Faith, so she can stay here at JamesSmith Abbey! Please!!! Amen! ….. Come on then! (they exit)

lights fade to blackout)

Lights fade in CS where Lady Tory, Tessa, and Clair are sitting, crocheting, and petty point… Gerard is positioned at the entrance, with the mail)

Tessa: Ma’Ma please look at this stitch and please tell me I don’t have to redo this? Its

doesn’t look right Tory: (Studies it) Just these two stitches darling …….see (She shows her) you didn’t

go under …but aside from that, it’s beautiful!

31 Tessa: Thank you! (Brinly enters) Brinly: Miss Clair, would you like your hair redone before Dinner? Clair: (Glares) Not by you! Tory: (horrified) Brinly? Brinly: Yes My Lady! Tory: I would very much like some Tea, could you ask Miss Ruby to prepare some

for us? Brinly: Right away! (sadly exits) Tory: Clair!!! Clair: Ma’Ma, I am sorry, but I do not like her. She is not proper enough and always

making mistakes. I simply need my Elly back! And I know you and Pa’Pa can make that happen! I will not stop prodding you!

Tory: Clair …… Gerard: Your Ladyship – The child is here! Clair: What Child? Tory: We will talk about this later…..(Hollis and Faith enter) Come here child!

(Faith nervously moves to her) Your name is Faith? Faith: Yes Your Ladyship (curtsies) Tory: (she stares into her eyes and Faith stares back) You have beautiful eyes! Faith: (curtsies) Thank you! Tory: (Tory takes a long time looking at her) That will be all! Nice to meet you Faith! Faith: (curtsies and smiles) Thank you! Nice to meet you too! (They exit) Clair: Who is that? What does she want here?

32 Tory: Clair, Your tone is inappropriate… it’s a long story and I’ll explain later. Clair: I hope you are not taking in another inadequate servant who just wastes our

money and drives me to the brink! Tory: Clair that will be enough! –(Walter enters SL) Walter: Who is that that just walked out with Hollis? Tory: (frustrated) I’ll tell you all about it later at dinner! Walter: If that suits you better my dear…(Awkwardly to Gerard) Is that the mail? Gerard: Yes Sir! (He gives it to him – Walter proceeds to sit and open the mail) Tory: Gerard? Gerard: Yes My Lady Tory: (determined) Tell Hollis, she is delightful and things may continue on as they

have! Gerard: Will do My Lady! (They have eye communication) Thank you! Tory: You are welcome! Walter: What was that all about!? Tory: (Sits) It suits me to tell you all about it later! (Just as Brinly comes in with a

tray with tea the lights slowly fade to Blackout) End Scene – SERVE DESSERT

33

EMAIL DEBI FOR SCRIPT TO READ SCENE 3 AND END OF SCENE 4. These scripts are free for you to use, providing you keep me in the loop I want to keep track of where my scripts are being used and I would love it if you let me know after your event how it went!

To know is payment for me! Thankyou and God Bless you!

SCENE 4

(Scene Opens up with Rosa and Edna sitting on the sofa and Lord Ribbentrop pacing anxiously, Hollis and Faith are decorating the Christmas Tree)

Edna: (Takes a sip of her tea) I am so relieved they caught those 2 thieves! I can’t

believe that happen to you!! Please forgive me for not getting here right away! Rosa: I totally understand. Ernst: (His eye raised) Did the thieves make off with anything of value? Rosa: No, thankfully. They dropped everything they intended to steal in the effort to

flee. Ernst: Do they know who these thieves were? Rosa: I’m afraid not! But let them try again!! And we will! Ernst: I’m sure they wont be back! Too close to getting caught…they wouldn’t be

that foolish!

34 Rosa: Or maybe their employer wouldn’t be that foolish! (There is an awkward

silence) Edna: Oh this almost makes me faint thinking upon it!! (fans herself, Ernst walks

away) Rosa: But I do know that if we were robbed, you would be there with your generous

fortune to help us out....right my sister? Ernst: (gets worried) I’m sure Ma’Ma would h e l p , yes! Edna: Help?.... not help....I would replace it ..... what is a fortune for...Right? and what

are families for? We have plenty! Rosa: I somehow knew you would say that! (looks at Ernst with a knowing look) I

knew you would take care of us as we would you, if need be......after all you do have an incredible inheritance that couldn’t go to a better cause IF we were EVER robbed!!

Ernst: Like I said Auntie, those thieves would be VERY foolish to try this place again.....in fact I would be willing to stake my life on it! You all can be at peace! I know these types.

Rosa: Thank you Ernst....I take refuge in your words! (Ernst gives her a fake smile,

knowing he’s been caught) Edna: Oh you poor poor darling....(Takes her hand) Rosa: I know…it’s a hard thing to go thru, nevertheless…..Everything is almost back

to as it should be. Brinly should be coming home from the hospital today or tomorrow and Clair is far too quiet, shall we say… but I think she’ll be back to her usual self any day now! I hope

Edna: What ever do you mean? Rosa: (broken) She hasn’t spoken for a month! Ernst: Oh that’s terrible! (tongue in cheek) Edna: I’m sure its just a matter of time…..that was very traumatic for her I’m

sure…(long silence, Ernst is snooping and very uncomfortable) I’m so impressed with your Brinly! She did a very brave thing…Hold on tightly to

35 that one! She will be sought after by many Abbeys! One’s who will sacrifice their lives for their charge are hard to come by!

Rosa: Yes I agree (Fanning herself) Edna: Oh Rosalina!! I can tell you are very distraught! Ernst: Aunt Edna, Prying into the feelings could be disheartening after all they’ve

been thru! Edna: Oh rubbish, I’m talking to my sister, not a stranger! We always share the

details. Ernst: (Ernst takes a deep sigh and paces) We should be going Ma’Ma, there’s not

much we can do here! And thankfully alls well that ends well! Edna: Ernst!! Rosa: Its ok Edna, He’s right! I very much would like some time to prepare before

Hollis and Brinly arrive! (looks at Ernst with steel eyes) And I’m in need of fresh air to breath!

Edna: Of course!! (gets up and then with a new thought) At least you have a perfectly

good reason to ask for the servants to be at your Christmas table this year!! After all they’ve been thru!

Rosa: Edna now is not the time to bring that up! Edna; (quietly) It may not be, but it just may!! (Kisses her cheek and speaks louder

again) Have a good day darling…keep me posted on all the goings on…I will be saying a prayer for you all!!

Rosa: Goodbye my sister….Ernst Ernst: Goodbye for now Auntie…(kisses her cheek) give my best to Cousin Walter!

Tell him he should hide his silver! Rosa: I’ll tell him....this will never happen again! (He locks eyes with her and They

exit – Rosa goes over to the silver, picks it up and shines it....snickers to herself as she puts it back with a knowing smile – a few moments later the family all come in attentive to Clair, Gerard enters as well, seeing to their needs)

36 Gerard: (Duncan comes in and whispers in Gerard ear) They will be here soon Your

Ladyship….would you like Tea? Tory: Yes Gerard…thank you! (Gerard tells Duncan to go get tea – Walter enters,

making sure Ernst is gone…goes to Rosa and kisses her cheek) Rosa: He gone. Walter: Good!! Any snide messages for me? Rosa: None I wish to relay! (smiles) Tessa: (Tessa stoops down to say hi to Faith who’s still decorating the tree with

Hollis) Hello beautiful Faith…I brought something for you from the stables, (she gives her a gold medallion from a saddle) It’s a gold medallion from my horse’s saddle! It’s worth a little money!

Faith: Thankyou….I love it! (Hollis, nods to Tessa thank you! And they continue

decorating after Faith stares at her gift) Tory: What was all that talk with Edna about? (Cecil walk in with tea...Tory picks up

a cup of tea) Thank you Cecil!

Rosa: Nothing important. how’s our Clair today? She surely looks much better! Walter: She’s amazing …(puts his arm around her) we went riding this morning

Ma’Ma and she rode like the wind! Didn’t she Tory? Tory: Yes! It’s like the sun is shining again in her eyes! Walter: She enjoyed it so much, Life renewed! Tessa: Quit talking about her like she’s not even here! Tory: Tessa! Tessa: Ma’Ma listen!! Tory: No!

37 Walter: She’s right honey! Clair can speak for herself, (Faces Clair) Sweetheart!

(Clair says nothing just smiles) Why don’t you tell Grandma’ma about our ride this morning? (She just looks away)

Tory: Why won’t you talk to us honey…it’s been a month! There’s no worry about

those men ever coming back…there’s nothing to be afraid of!!! Please talk to us! (Silence)

Walter: (Hugs his wife) Don’t do this to yourself…(Clair starts to cry) Tory: I’m sorry honey! Don’t cry Tessa: I’m going to have the carriage brought around to go into town later, would you

like to go with me Clair? (Clair nods no) next time maybe? (She nods again) I love you! (She nods, takes Tessas hand and holds it to her heart, Tessa gets up to leave as Gerard enters)

Gerard: Lord Walter, Your Ladyship…They have arrived! (Tessa comes back into the

room....Clair jumps up, standing in anticipation and shocks the family) Rosa: Well it looks like someone has been eagerly awaiting this arrival? (they all look

in wonder at Clair’s reaction - Ruby, Minna and Brinly enter, Brinly has a long sleeved tight turtleneck under her dress to cover up her arm, She can’t move her arm properly from the damage, but she’s putting her best face on, all the servants come in behind her)

Tory: Welcome Home Brinly....Ruby! Minna (she hugs her, Ruby and Minna stand

back together silent) were so thankful you are looking like yourself and have come to no lasting harm!

Walter: Welcome Home Brinly! Our hero! Brinly: (She smiles) Thank you Sir! It’s good to be back! (Gerard motions for the

servants to get back to work) Tessa: No Gerard….let them stay, this is a great day for all of us! Tory: Yes! Please come and be with us for a moment! (Walter waves them all

in....Clair just stares at Brinly, Brinly’s head is bowed most of the time, Rosa is watching closely)

38 Walter: Might I take this opportunity to thank you all! I know I’ve said this already

several times but not with Brinly here so please bear with me. We could have lost everything if not for every one of you! I could have lost (gets choked up) I could have lost my precious Clair if not for your heroic efforts Brinly! I am indebted to you! To you all! And I have decided to give you all extra in wages (They all respond in joy) AND …..my Mother Rosa would like to extend to you all a very special invitation for our Christmas Celebration! (Rosa is shocked at his request) Ma’ma would you like to do the honors?

Rosa: (Can hardly speak and finally gets her voice) Ou..our ah..Family (gets confident) considers you all a part of our family! And we want to change the tradition here at JamesSmith Abbey, from this day forth!

Walter: Henceforth?? Rosa: Yes…..from now on!!! (silence for a moment) Tory: YES! (hooks her hand in Walters arm) From now on!!!! (smiles) Rosa: We would like to share Christmas Dinner with all of you! Sharing our stories,

our food, and our love! Would you please accept our offer? (all the servants stare speechless)

Gerard: Your Ladyship who will do the serving? Rosa: We’ll do it all together! (Again, silence….then finally, they all break out in

laughter and yes’s and hugs etc) Nettie: I need a dress! Bettie: You have a dress Nettie: That’s a rag Bettie: I made that rag! I can’t believe you don’t like it Nettie; I didn’t say I didn’t like it…this is Christmas dinner with the family! Bettie: OUR family!!(they keep bickering until they exit) Bettie: You said Nettie: I don’t care what I said! (The family giggle as they exit)

39 Gerard: My apologies My Lord. I will have a talk with those two! Tory: Oh no you don’t Gerard! They bring such Joy to all those who know them, I

assure you! (Clair is still very quiet, looking at Brinly, it’s very awkward! There is lots of improv, talking until Rosa interrupts)

Rosa: Excuse me everyone! (She claps) We have much planning to do TOGETHER!

Lets all go down to the kitchen and plan our festivities! All except for Lady Clair and Brinly! (Rosa gives Walter,Tory and Tessa THE LOOK, they nod and help Rosa get everyone out)

Tory: Yes, who would help with the decorations on the table? (Hollis and Ruby

volunteer excitedly) Tessa: I want to help bake the dessert! This is so amazing! Thank you Grandma’ma!!

(Everyone’s talking at once; when they’re all gone Clair and Brinly just stand there in silence for a few awkward moments!

Clair: (Finally speaks) I’m so grateful your back! Safe and sound. Brinly: Thank you my Lady (keeps her head bowed) I heard you were not talking. Clair: I could not talk....not until I talked to you! Brinly: I see. Clair: (more awkward silence) Is your arm very bad? Brinly: Not so bad! Clair: Can you still use it? Brinly: I promise I will do my best, you won’t know that it’s damaged; I will keep it

covered …. I promise! (starts to get emotional) Clair: Its ok...I just want to make sure you do not further injure yourself and that you

take the proper time to heal so that you will always be with me….I don’t want to lose you.

Brinly: (long pause) You don’t want to lose me Your Ladyship?

40 Clair: No, I don’t Brinly: What about Elly? Clair: Elly would never try to save my life! I would be dead if…..(Gets down on her

knees) I am so sorry Brinly, I was horrible to you! Everything you said was true!

Brinly: I shouldn’t have said that! Clair: I pushed you to it and I deserved every word of it! Will you ever forgive me? Brinly: Yes of course and will you forgive me! Clair: (smiles in tears) there’s nothing to forgive, but yes…yes!! (Hugs her) I

promise it will be different from now on…I am going to grow up and love people like I ….love God. Will you help me be a better person…like you!?

Brinly: (laughs) How about we help each other! Clair: Thank you for saving my life! Brinly: You’re welcome! (they take eachothers hands)

lights fade to blackout Lights fade in UPST C

EMAIL DEBI FOR SCRIPT TO READ SCENE 3 AND END OF SCENE 4. These scripts are free for you to use, providing you keep me in the loop I want to keep track of where my scripts are being used and I would love it if you let me know after your event how God used this script! To know is payment for me!

Thankyou and God Bless you!

41

BLACK OUT - THE END