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SCENE ONE

As the curtain rises, MR. RUSSELL B. PARKER is seated in the single barber's throne, reading the Daily News. He is in his early or middle fifties. He rises nervously, moves to the window, and peers out, his right hand over his eyebrows. He returns to the chair and continues to read. He checks his watch, rises again, and moves to the window for another look. Finally he sees the right person coming. He moves to the door and opens it. MR. WILLIAM JENKINS enters: early fifties, well dressed in a complete suit of clothes, and carrying a newspaper under his arm.

MR. PARKER
Where have you been?

MR. JENKINS
Whatcha mean? You know where I was.

MR. PARKER
You want to play the game or not?

MR. JENKINS
That's what I came here for.

MR. PARKER
(Slides open a panel in the counter.) I wanted to get in at least three games before Adele got home, but this way we'll be lucky if we get in one.

MR. JENKINS
Stop complaining and get the board out--I'll beat you, and that will be that.

MR. PARKER
I can do without your bragging. (Pulls out a checkerboard and a small can, quickly places them on the table, then shakes up the can.) Close your eyes and take a man.

Transcription Notes:
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