<script>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. DELTA TERMINAL - KENNEDY AIRPORT - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>On a taxi arriving at the Delta terminal of Kennedy Airport . A man in a well - tailored gray suit gets out of the taxi . CUT TO a CLOSER SHOT of the man as he pays the cabbie . He is WILLCOX HILLYER , the middle - aged `` Buddy '' of this story and the observer through whose eyes it is seen . He has a dry , ironic , rather agreeable manner and he should seem like everyone 's idea of a successful author , a slightly graying , trim , still - youthful - looking fifty . The CAMERA follows him as he walks into the terminal carrying a small travel bag .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DELTA TERMINAL - KENNEDY AIRPORT - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Willcox Hillyer at a counter getting his ticket processed . A little smile is on his face as he talks to a pretty airline girl . This character likes girls ; his aloofness is modified , his face changes when he talks to them . The airline girl smiles back , she finds him attractive . We do n't hear what they are saying , no dialogue on track - it is obvious he is flirting with the girl in a mild way , but now a frown comes on his face and he turns his head as if slightly annoyed by something . CUT TO a POV shot of a tall , gaunt , almost totally bald man at the next ticket counter . The man is about sixty - five and looks like a half senile Great Dane . He is DAVE WILKIE , erstwhile husband of the heroine of this story . Age has not been at all kind to Dave ; his face is lined with bitterness , he is a sour , angry , lonely man and now he is making a very unpleasant scene with a ticket girl and an airline representative , waving his ticket and gesticulating angrily . He wears an expensive , ill - fitting suit and a Texas - type hat . We do n't hear his angry complaints , no dialogue is on the track . CUT BACK to a CLOSE SHOT of Willcox Hillyer as he stares with a frown at the man . It 's as if he knows the man but ca n't place him . The airline ticket girl speaks to him and he turns back to her , his face softening as he answers her , obviously saying he 'll carry his bag . He nods goodbye to the girl , turns and the CAMERA follows him as he walks some distance away and stops , looks back with another pensive frown at the tall , gaunt man at the next counter . CUT TO ANOTHER POV shot of Dave Wilkie , a longer shot than the first . The man is now arguing angrily with two airline representatives , still waving his ticket and shaking his head . We do n't hear him . Lip - readers might pick up what he is saying : `` I 'm supposed to be in first class , not tourist . What 's the matter with this friggin ' airline ? '' CUT BACK TO Willcox Hillyer , a CLOSE SHOT of his face as he rubs his chin and frowns obviously struggling to remember the man . The CAMERA holds on him as he stares at the gaunt angry Dave , racking his brain . He shakes his head , he can not place the man and yet he knows him . The CAMERA moves in closer on Willcox Hillyer 's face as he stares in pensive puzzlement at this ghost from the past and now we hear , as if from a distance , FAINT MUSIC on the track - it is `` Dixie , '' played with beautiful lazy mocking love by the great Louis Armstrong in his prime . At first we can barely hear it , then the MUSIC becomes LOUDER as Hillyer 's frown deepens and he seems almost to know the man . MAIN TITLE -LRB- SUPERIMPOSED -RRB- : `` RAMBLING ROSE '' The MUSIC remains a bit in the distance , but it can be heard . OTHER TITLES -LRB- SUPERIMPOSED -RRB- : over the following action . VARIOUS SHOTS , on Willcox Hillyer . He gives up his effort to recognize the strangely familiar Dave with a little shrug , turns and walks away with his travel bag .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DELTA TERMINAL - LOUNGE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>We see him entering the departure lounge and boarding the plane .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DELTA AIRPLANE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of him as he smiles rather nicely at a very attractive young stewardess as he walks down the aisle of the plane . He is not a crass or lewd flirt , but life comes into his face when he sees a pretty girl - he seems to have a real affection for girls : toward men he is polite but rather dry and ironic , almost aloof , but girls he likes . We see him sit in a seat , open his travel bag and take out long galley sheets . He stares for a moment rather wearily at the galleys , then sighs , puts on reading glasses and begins to make corrections as boarding passengers walk by in the aisle . Something or someone disturbs him , he looks up with a slight frown and CUT TO a POV shot of Dave Wilkie , all wonder and enthusiasm . This OVER the TITLES and we do not hear the dialogue they speak , what we heard is LOUIS ARMSTRONG , but I will put the dialogue in here so the actors can act it . We do not want to hear it , the sense of what they are saying will be obvious from the acting .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( not on track . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddd - dee! My God, if it ai n't Buddy! Well, if this ai n't the darnest thing!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on them both as Dave blocks the aisle , an idiot false - toothed grin on his face . Hillyer has a pained embarrassed smile .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( not on track . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Excuse me. your voice is familiar and I'm sure I know you from somewhere.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( not on track , with delighted injury . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Awww - rr, Buddy, come on, you know me!</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( not on track . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I. I. ah - h, let's see.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( not on track . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's Dave Wilkie! I'm Dave Wilkie, do n't you remember me?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( not on track . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh. Oh, God. Of course, Dave, how are you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The men shake hands , Dave enthusiastically , Hillyer less so . We see Dave stow his suitcase and take the seat next to Hillyer .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. KENNEDY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a big Delta jet making its final taxiing turn and ROARING into a take - off .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. KENNEDY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a dramatic underbelly shot of the jet going up . END OF TITLES .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DELTA AIRPLANE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the attractive , young stewardess , harried as she fixes drinks .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DELTA AIRPLANE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Dave and Willcox Hillyer as the young stewardess gives them drinks . Dave bestows a sour glance on her when he sees the single drink , but at the moment he is in the midst of an aggressively self - satisfied conversation and says nothing to her . He speaks to Hillyer , who is making a real effort to be polite but is less than happy about the encounter .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I am in the construction business, Buddy, and without braggin' I have done real good at it.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( with a meaningful bitterness . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>There are those who would n't have expected that out of me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses as if waiting for a reaction , but Hillyer is very silent . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Right now I'm buildin' a giant motel unit near Alexandria, outside Washington, D.C. Not fi - nance, I'm on the construction side.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( making polite talk . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, that's interesting, Dave. I always liked Washington, it's a pretty town.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, it's all right, beats Jew York. But the niggers have took it over, just like every other city we got, only worse.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hillyer gives a barely perceptible wince at this speech , but Dave does n't notice , he goes on with aggressive self satisfaction after a swallow of whiskey .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But I have done real good in the construction field. What I do n't know about buildin' ai n't worth knowin'. I knocked off twenty - eight thousand smackeroos last year, how's that for an old country boy?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Dave pauses , realizes this might not impress ; glances down with curiosity at the galley sheets , then an unpleasant smile .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ha ha, course you make a lot more.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( points at the galleys . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What's that you got there, Buddy?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( reluctantly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Galley proof.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Galley what?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Page proof of a book I'm working on.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>How about that. Well, you always were a screwball.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( lifts an eyebrow in mild irony . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, yeah?</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( unfazed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't mean that the way it sounds.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( stares at galleys as if rattlesnake . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Imagine it, a book. And I used to know you personal way back when.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then earnestly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Tell me something, Buddy, how do you dream up all that stuff?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( absolutely straight . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, actually, we have a little black boy named Her - t who lives in the garage. He does it for me.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( for a moment half believes it , then a slow , stupid grin . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Heh heh heh heh, same old Buddy, always jokin' around. Almost as much of a joker as your Daddy.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( drains his drink , grimaces ; a heavy drinker , Dave . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I saw your Daddy a coupla years ago, I was up in Glenville lookin' at a motel site. I guess that's where you're headed, huh, to see him?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( stares out of plane window . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's right, Dave, I'm headed for Glenville on a whisperin' jet.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( suddenly calls out . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Hey, girl! Hey, you, give us another drink!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( to Hillyer , sullenly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Dumb little bitch, supposed to give us two in the first place.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox Hillyer listens with a pained half smile , a hand at his temple .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>This friggin' airline's out of its mind.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( a martyr . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The sons of bitches tried to put me in tourist.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( portentuously philosophical . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But our whole civilization is screwed up, Buddy. The heebies and the coconuts have took it over and ruined it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox Hillyer half closes his eyes in weariness , but says nothing . Gently , he rubs his temple . It is plain Dave Wilkie gives him a headache .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DELTA AIRPLANE</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on the pretty young stewardess as she brings two more drinks . Dave stares sourly at her , wholly unmoved by her charm .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Took your time gettin' here.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>She has other things to do, Dave.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox smiles apologetically at girl .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Supposed to get two drinks in the first place. This friggin' airline ca n't do nothin' right.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The stewardess purses her lips at Dave , who is bowed over his drink busy opening it . Hillyer lifts an eyebrow at the girl as if to say , `` Do n't blame me because of this damned idiot , '' and she half smiles at him .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( obviously getting him off subject . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Tell me about that job in Alexandria, Dave, the big motel you're building.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( with pedantic exactitude , the man is a complete pain in the ass . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Near Alexandria. It is n't in Alexandria, it is outside it.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>I see. Outside it.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>That's correct - outside it, not in it. As for the job, well, the Jewboy suppliers give me a lot of grief and we use a pile of niggers to haul and tote and they ai n't worth a sorry - ass damn.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( takes big swallow of drink . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But I can build anything, Buddy. Give me the plans and I can build a goddamn staircase to the moon. It's a fact, I can build anything.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then bitterly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>. but she never believed that. Oh, hell, no, she never believed in me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>This is another pointed bitter reference to the unknown `` she . '' Once again , Willcox Hillyer is deliberately unresponsive .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Um - m, well.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( broodingly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Doubted my ability all along, the little bitch. I never remarried, Buddy, you know that, do n't you?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, no, I did n't actually.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>She's te reason - cured me of women once and for all. Oh, I got rid of her, Buddy, I did n't waste no time kickin' that bitch out. Hell, she was screwin' everybody in Savannah. I caught her in a motel with this long tall son of a bitch and boy did I beat the everlastin' piss out of him!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Dave Wilkie 's eyes narrow with vindictive anger as he says it and one can well believe the streak of raw violence in the man . It is frightening even now ; he is a clown , but he is a dangerous clown . As his long , bitter , impassioned tirade continues , Willcox Hillyer becomes increasingly tense and pale - it is obvious he detests what the man is saying and he is struggling to control himself . Dave 's tone and voice are laconically Southern , but the hatred and misery in his eyes are raw .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She did n't marry him, though, later she married another guy and went to Winston - Salem. It did n't last That girl could n't have no lastin' marriage, she left him and married another dumb sucker and went out west. Little bitch left him, too, and you know what she's married to right now?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( puts a big finger on Hillyer 's chest . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>A kike. That's right, some kind of kike horse doctor named Schapiro out in Seattle, who's got the nerve to have the same first name I got. Would n't you know it, Rose would wind up married to a goddamn kike? She was always out of her friggin' head and I'll tell you why.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( his eyes narrow and again he puts a finger on Hillyer 's chest . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, she was sick in her mind and between her legs, too. She was a nymphomaniac.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( he has had enough ; with a pale trembling anger and in even tone . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Dave, you are as full of shit as a Christmas turkey and you know it. Now if you want to start a fight on this plane and get yourself in jail, go right ahead. But I am telling you, you are full of shit right up to your eyeballs.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( with surprising mildness ; a little smile almost as if he is pleased . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't want to start no fight with you, Buddy. Why do you say I'm full of shit?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Dave Schapiro is no horse doctor and Rose has been a good wife to him for a long time. To call her a nymphomaniac is the most stupid thing I ever heard in my life.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( again surprisingly mild . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You loved her, did n't you. Well, so did I.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( a little shrug . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You'll have to admit she had four husbands.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, it took her a while to grow up and find Mr. Right, but she did it. She found him.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( another little smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She used to call me Mr. Right. Remember that, Buddy?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( he is pale with anger . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yeah, I remember it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox picks up galley sheets , half turns away .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I tell you, I do n't know what the world's come to these days. Things used to be better. We did n't have any money, but things were better.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( grimaces in anger . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Goddamn niggers and kikes burning the flag, rioting, raising hell - they ought to shoot their asses off. I tell you, Buddy, where this country made its mistake was allowing people without property to vote.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>During this speech , Willcox Hillyer grits his teeth but says nothing . He keeps his eyes down on the galley sheets . As Dave shakes his head in sorrow at the state of the nation .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. ATLANTA TERMINAL - HERTZ COUNTER - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Willcox Hillyer at a Hertz Counter in the Atlanta airport . A tense , wrought up Dave Wilkie is in the b.g. of the shot . During the following brief exchange , Hillyer is politely cool , Wilkie under a great strain .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( holds out hand . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, got to get a plane to Savannah. Great running into you, Buddy. Give my best to your Daddy.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, I'll do that, Dave.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( sweating , tense , under some kind of awful emotional strain . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ah - h, if you happen to run into Rose sometime. do me a favor, give her a message for me, will you?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( a trifle wearily . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Dave, I have n't seen Rose for years.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hillyer takes rental car papers from a pretty young HERTZ GIRL , gives the girl a little smile , picks up his travel bag . In desperation , Dave takes his arm .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I'm a sick man. I had a heart attack last year, I was n't expected to live.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Hillyer turns to Dave , puzzled and interested ; Dave earnestly explains .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You might see her. She writes your Daddy, and she and that doctor came to see him, did n't they? I wish you'd tell her something. I never could write letters.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a different tone , interested , curious . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What do you want me to tell her, Dave?</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE WILKIE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a painful inward struggle ; the man is tormented , miserable . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, to hell with it, never mind. Do n't tell her anything. Do n't even tell her you saw me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( half turns his back , his face twisted with strong emotion . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Got to run, Buddy, I'll miss my plane.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox Hillyer and the pretty young Hertz Girl stare after Dave Wilkie as he walks away with spasm - like steps . Hillyer seems affected , less hostile toward Dave now . He speaks half to himself , half to the Hertz Girl .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>He still loves her. The poor damn fool still loves her.</dialogue>
    <character>HERTZ GIRL</character>
    <dialogue>Who was she?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>A girl named Rose.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pulls himself back into the world of reality . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Still take R75 to Glenville?</dialogue>
    <character>HERTZ GIRL</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox nods thanks and walks away carrying his travel bag .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. ATLANTA AIRPORT - ROAD - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the red Ford driving from the airport .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. INTERSTATE 75 - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the red Ford on Interstate 75 , Atlanta skyline in b.g.</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. GEORGIA INTERSTATE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>On the red Ford as it speeds along a Georgia Interstate through red clay hills in green springtime .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. CAR - GEORGIA INTERSTATE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot on Willcox Hillyer CLOSE ON his face in the car . He is lost in reflection . A look of bitter sweet emotion is on his face , an expression of sadness mixed with amusement . As the CAMERA holds on his face , we hear again on the track Louis Armstrong 's great version of `` DIXIE , '' or music of comparable power , beauty and nostalgic evocation . Now the music is stronger , much stronger than behind the titles , we are beginning to hear it full force .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of a thirteen - year - old boy on the front porch of a house in the sleepy Depression South of many years ago . He is BUDDY , Willcox Hillyer as a boy . The MUSIC continues as he shades his eyes to look at something far away .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a LONG POV shot of a young and very pretty blonde girl walking slowly up an oak - shaded driveway . A ZOOMAR LENSE takes us TOWARD her . She is carrying a cardboard suitcase tied with a string . Her clothes are cheap , her shoes are dusty , runs are in her stockings . She is sweaty , tired and seems very nervous . ROSE is a very attractive girl , but her primary quality is not sexiness , but an innocence and sweetness . She pauses to wipe sweat from her forehead with the back of her hand and nervously moistens her lips as she stares ahead uncertainly at the `` nice '' Southern home which to her seems very grand . It is apparent she is badly frightened and apprehensive about what lies ahead . She is also exhausted from the heat and a long hot walk in the Southern sun . She blinks at perspiration , swallows in anxiety again and forces herself to walk on .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PORCH</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy on the porch . Expressionless , unreadable , neither friendly nor hostile , he stares with an even gaze directly into the CAMERA . He has his hands on his hips in a distinctive way that we will later see is a mannerism of his father 's . Buddy tries to imitate the style of his father , not always with complete success . Unreadable as a Sphinx , he stands there , waiting .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME PORCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of Rose at the foot of the porch steps . A tentative little smile is on her face . It is very plain she is nervous and frightened .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Hello. I'm Rose, and I've come to live with you and your family.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Silence . The damn boy says nothing . A trifle crestfallen , Rose moistens his lips and swallows . She ventures another little smile and the CAMERA follows her as she walks up the steps . The at - times - insufferable Buddy comes into the shot . He still has his hands on his hips Daddy - style and his expression is inscrutable , neither friendly nor hostile .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What's your name? What do they call you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Finally , the boy speaks - and he is not so bad . He 's a child after all .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Lots of things. Buddy, mostly.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( greatly reassured , a real smile now . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy. Well, now, that's a nice name, I like it. I am real pleased to meet you.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( solemnly holds out her hand , they shake . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Hey, look, do you think you got a cold drink of ice water somewhere?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Sure. Let me take your suitcase.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A warm and beautiful smile comes on Rose 's face and a little twinkle comes into her eyes . The innocence and sweetness are not lost , that is never lost , but this is a girl who likes boys and men .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You're sweet.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME BEDROOM STUDY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy 's mother , Mrs. Hillyer , in a Morris chair in her bedroom study . MOTHER is a sensitive , kind and rather appealing if slightly eccentric lady of about 37 or 38 . She wears glasses , has a Victorian hairdo and a 1930ish style dress . At the moment Mother is absorbed in her studies - notebooks and history books are littered and piled everywhere around her chair . She is drinking a Coca - Cola and smoking a cigarette held by a bobbie pin . Calmly , she glances up as Buddy enters the room . The CAMERA pulls back to include him .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>The new girl is here.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Wonderful. What's she like, Brother? What is your impression of her?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>She talks a great deal and smiles a lot. She's very pretty, she has a real good figure. She's very girlish or womanish, if you know what I mean. She would n't hurt anybody, this girl. She could n't.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother accepts her son 's precocious pronouncement as perfectly normal ; talks to him as if he 's an adult .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Your impression is very reassuring, Brother. Of course she's had troubles, poor thing, but I sensed that was that the girl was like and I'm glad to have it reconfirmed.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>You mean confirmed, Mother. I did n't confirm it before. I would have had to confirm it previously, in order for it to be reconfirmed.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>All right, all right. Doll and Waski are upstairs taking their nap, you go get them and bring them down to the living room. Where is the girl?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>In the kitchen drinking all the ice water in Glenville. She walked out here, she did n't go by the hotel.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Walked, in all that heat? It's a wonder she has n't got sunstroke. I'll phone Daddy and you go get Doll Baby and Waski.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Mother , Rose , Buddy , Doll and Waski in the living room of the Hillyer household . DOLL is a pretty little girl of about 11 , WASKI a boy of 5 . Mother 's tone is very gentle , very sweet , very kind . Her unabashed admiration for her own children has an ingenuousness that is more amusing than offensive .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, this is Waski. His real name is Warren but we call him Waski. He does n't like it much and I suppose someday we'll have to stop calling him that.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>You can stop it right now.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>When he was baby we called him `` Wa Wa,'' a baby name, you know. You will find him a very good boy. His brother can be bad and so can his sister, but Waski is a very good boy. And as you can see he's beautiful.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, Mother, cut it out.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( serenely . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>There are plenty of girls who would give thousands of dollars to have your auburn hair. Beauty is beauty and that's all there is to it. Beauty is there and we have to recognize it. Now Rose, the little girl sitting across from you with the blue eyes is Doll Baby. She looks like an angel and she is an angel, but she can be a naughty angel sometimes, although her father wo n't believe it. Her real name is Frances, but we call her Dolly or Doll.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't like that, either, it's worse than Waski. I want to be called Fran.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Daddy would n't hear that. Now the redhaired boy you see sitting there, of course you have met him, he is my oldest son and my most brilliant child. All children have great creative powers, but I do n't want to rattle on about my children, they say I brag too much about them, especially about Brother. Am I boring you, Rose?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose has not as yet caught on to Mother 's style and is staring at her with lips apart and blue eyes slightly popped .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( feebly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, no, ma'am.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it's rather interesting about Brother, actually. I realized the remarkable thing he had when he was six weeks old. He looked at me and understood me, he knew exactly who I was. I know it sounds crazy but it's true. He's very remarkable, he was born for the ministry and could move millions, but he does n't know that yet. I have to warn you about him, he can be very dangerous, there is an evil streak in him, a streak of pure sheer meanness. But at heart Brother is saintly and that is why he was born for the ministry even if he does n't know it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Thus , Mother . Slightly cuckoo , a bit out of touch with reality , but no fool . A very intelligent woman really , and very , very gentle and kind . Her style , however , takes a little getting used to and her long speech throws Rose completely . She stares at Mother in speechless open - mouthed awe , unable to say a word . The CAMERA moves in CLOSER on Rose as she moistens her lips , swallows , tries to talk and ca n't . She is very , very nervous . Now she flinches and looks around as we hear a deep masculine VOICE OVER the shot . It is the voice of DADDY , Mr. Hillyer , Buddy 's father .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>Honey, you'll scare the gizzard out of the girl going into the fourth dimension like that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Daddy in the doorway of the living room . He is a handsome man of about forty with a style and a manner all his own . As extravagant as his remarks often are and funny though he is at times , the man has a courtly Southern dignity that is never lost . He is no clown , he is not even a comedian , he is a man and a formidable man at that : all the characters in this story love and fear him . We see now where Buddy got his unreadable expression thing and his hands on the hips thing . Daddy is unreadable . A straw hat is on the back of his head , a rolled - up Glenville Tribune is in his hand , his hands are on his hips . He is staring with what seems to be stern fierceness at them all , but his attitude really is inscrutable .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>It is n't the fourth dimension. To you it's the fourth dimension, maybe, to me it's simply the truth.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( staring fiercely at Rose . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, well, well. So Miss Rosebud has arrived. Un - hmm. And you're all assembled here. Yes, indeed. Un hmmm.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy walks in as Rose stares wide - eyed at him . It is obvious he scares the absolute bejesus out of her , she looks actually as if she might faint , her hands trembling on her lap and her knees quivering beneath her cheap and tacky dress . But she has a surprise coming . She is soon to lose all her fear of him , every bit of it . Daddy walks over and sits in a chair beside her , stares fiercely at her for a moment , then begins a long speech . Again , extravagant as this speech is , he is no clown , he is not `` being funny , '' he means every word he says .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, Rosebud, now you are here, darling, and I swear to God graceful as the capital letter S. You will adorn our house, Rosebud, you will give a glow and a shine to these old walls. If there's one thing I like to have around, it's a frizzy - haired blonde. Now I assume Mrs. Hillyer and the children have introduced themselves and made your acquaintance, and so forth and so on?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose can barely answer , eyes fixed in rapt fascination on him , a half whisper .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right. Now as head of this household I have a couple of remarks to make. It is my dear wife's belief, which I accept although I do not totally grasp it, that to hire a person to do household work is a criminal practice. Therefore, you are here not as a servant, you are here as a friend, as a guest and hopefully as a member of this family. You will eat your meals with us, you will share life itself with us - in love and harmony, dear Rosebud, in love and harmony. Do you understand me?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a half whisper . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy pauses , then in a different tone , his hidden gentleness and kindness are much more plain ; as he talks Rose 's eyes begin to well with tears .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Now, I know you've had some troubles in your life, those. scoundrels in Birmingham and so forth trying to. lead you astray. I hope you find a safe haven here, honey, I know you've had a hard time. Life can be cruel to a young girl all alone. We welcome you to our home, Rosebud, we all welcome you from the heart and hope you are happy here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose bites her lip , her eyes are filled with tears ; an inaudible whisper .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>VARIOUS SHOTS of Rose doing household chores : sweeping the floor , vacuuming , cooking . She is cheerful in her work , smiling , good - humored and she works hard . It is obvious she is happy . We see the children in most of these shots . It is apparent Rose is a very good worker and very happy in her new home .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>Rose is washing the dishes while the children finish breakfast . Buddy looks up from this cornflakes with a slightly sly expression .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, who were those scoundrels in Birmingham?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Nobody.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>But who were they?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>They were just bad men, that's all.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>In what sense were they bad?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Bad is bad, Buddy. There ai n't no sense to it.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Did they try to induce you to become a prostitute?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose turns around , lifts her eyebrows , tosses down the dishcloth .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't answer talk like that, Buddy. I just do n't hear it, I turn my back and look away.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose turns her back on him .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Was that what they tried to do? Was that why Daddy gave you the job, to save you from those scoundrels?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Your Daddy is a wonderful man, I'll say that. He's the best and most kind - hearted man in the world.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Hey, Rose, did you hear about that terrible thing down in Cave Springs?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>What terrible thing in Cave Springs?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>There was this old man that ate his niece.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose stares emptily for a moment , then bites her lips together .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I did n't hear you. I did n't hear that.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>He really did, he ate his little niece. He made pork chops out of her.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't hear you. I just turn my back on that kind of talk and look away.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it's only the truth. There are horrible things in the world, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, you are in one of your evil moods, I do n't want to talk to you. I'm going out and sweep the patio.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose exits and the CAMERA stays on Buddy , Doll and Waski .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose is almost as sentimental as Mother. If there's one thing I ca n't stand it's sentimentality. In Chattanooga this man committed an almost perfect murder. He killed his wife with a black widow spider.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, shut up, Buddy.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, shut up.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose on the stone patio of the Hillyer house , an attractive area with outdoor furniture and crabapple tree limbs overhead . Rose is busy sweeping . The CAMERA PANS to follow her and we pick up Mrs. Hillyer , Mother . It is a nice day and she is studying out on the patio , books and notebooks piled around . Rose glances down curiously at her .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>What are you studying now, Mrs. Hillyer?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>More history, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Are you going to get your degree soon?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I am working on my thesis.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( as she busily sweeps . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It must be wonderful to be so smart. I do n't see how you do it, reading all those books, learning all that stuff.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( looks up , and gently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, you work too hard. Why do n't you go sit down somewhere and drink a Co - Cola?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( smiles , trusts and knows Mother now , not at all afraid of her . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're so sweet.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose again busily sweeps .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Really, why do n't you go sit down somewhere?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I like to work. I do n't mind work. It's the least I can do after all you and Mr. Hillyer have done for me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( stares worshipfully at Mother . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're so sweet. There never was nobody like you.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, you run on now.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, Ma'am.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Exit Rose . Mother adjusts her notebook and turns the page of a history book as she resumes her studies . We hear the sound of an approaching CAR and she glances up .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a slightly worn - out 1932 Model - A Ford as it rolls up the driveway of the Hillyer home , Daddy at the wheel .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on Daddy as he gets out of the Model - A . He has his usual straw hat on the back of his head . The CAMERA FOLLOWS him as he walks onto the patio .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Good morning, sweetheart. Beautiful day.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, it's so nice I thought I'd work outside.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>How goes it, darlin'?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Slow, hon. But at least I can concentrate now that Rose is here.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>What do you think of her, honey?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother does n't answer , she writes on , head bowed over her notebook . We see in this shot the hearing aid she wears and hear from it a faint BUZZ .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Turn up your hearing aid.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Your hearing aid, it's buzzing at me like a snake.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( adjusts hearing aid . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh. Did you say something?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I asked you what you think of Rosebud, now that she's been here a while.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Honey, she's perfect. She works all the time and she's wonderful with the children. And they love her, even Brother likes her though he wo n't admit it. I think she's just perfect.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Um - hmm. Almost too perfect.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>And she's such a good - hearted thing, there is n't an ounce of harm or malice in her.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I'll admit I do n't see any flies on her yet.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>There are no flies on Rose, I do n't know what you're talking about.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, she must have done something to encourage those scoundrels in Birmingham, even if she did run away from them.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy in the window of the kitchen . He is propped on his elbows and listening with keen interest to the talk on the patio . We hear the VOICES of his parents OVER the shot .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>If you mean. boys and men, I do n't think so. Rose seems very calm about all of that.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, so far I have to agree. She seems calm as lettuce.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA FOLLOWS Buddy as he draws back into the kitchen . We see Doll and Waski playing a game on the kitchen table .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Daddy says Rose is calm as lettuce. Do you believe that, Doll?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>No.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>Neither do I.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, Waski, you do n't even know what we're talking about.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>I do, too.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy turns , looks back out the window .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER SOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Mother and Daddy on the patio . Daddy stands up .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, let's hope for the best, darlin'.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Hope for the best? I do n't understand all this skepticism. I thought you liked Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I love Rosebud, I am wild about Rosebud. I just hope she does n't turn out to be a hidden hotcha character, that's all. We have growing children in the house.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Hotcha character. If I had to live with your cynicism, I would n't want to live at all. What you ca n't understand is that the creative forces of the universe are positive, not negative.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently , his irony is mild . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right, darlin', do n't go off into the fourth dimension.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not in the fourth dimension -.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( points a finger at him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>- you are in the fourth dimension, when you allow skepticism and doubt to take control. As Blake said, if God had doubt the sun would go out.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( again gentle irony , always courtly toward her . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Forgive my crudity, darlin'. I do n't understand these deeper things the way you do.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( reaches up , takes his hand . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Be nice to Rose. She's never had a real home.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You're a wonderful woman, darlin'. As long as you're around, I'm sure the sun would n't dare go out.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll and Waski in the kitchen . Doll and Waski are playing parchesi on the kitchen table . Buddy turns from eavesdropping at the window and strolls across the kitchen , hands in his khaki pants .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>It's pitiful. Neither one of them know.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( as she shakes dice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I think Daddy suspects.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, he does n't. Not really.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA FOLLOWS Buddy as he goes to the hall door , carefully opens it to make no noise and peers down the hall .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of Rose busy dusting hall furniture , humming as she works . We hear on the track the SOUND of the Model - A starting , and Rose freezes . Then , quickly , Rose hurries down the hall toward the front door . ON Buddy as he watches her through a crack in the door . He has his hands on his hips Daddy - style and his face is expressionless . ANOTHER ANGLE , POV of Buddy but CLOSER on Rose at the end of the hall . She is staring soulfully through the glass of the front door as we hear the Model - A go down the driveway . Rose lifts a hand between her breasts , sighs . A lovesick expression is on her face .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Buddy , as he comes back into the kitchen sadly shaking his head .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>It's really pitiful. She's in bad shape.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>She's watching the car again?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>I get so irritated with Daddy. He's so dumb sometimes.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, I know.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, Waski, you do n't know anything.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>I do, too!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right, what do you know?</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>Rose is madly in love with Daddy.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then solemnly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, do n't tell Mother.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>Do you think I'm crazy?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the family at dinner in the dining room at night . Daddy is at the head of the table , Mother is at the other end . Buddy , Doll and Waski are all seated in neat , nice clothes , hands washed and hair combed . Rose is serving , but a place is set for her . She wears an attractive little apron and is smiling , blushing , happy as Daddy teases and jokes at her .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a good humor . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rosebaby Blossom, these are the most delicious candied yams I ever ate! Why, they just melt in my mouth. And this fried chicken is fit for a king. How do you do it, Peachbird? What is the secret of your art, Plum Blossom, huh?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( blushing , smiling . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, I do n't know, I. I.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rosebird Baby, you are the light of my life, darlin'. How did we ever get by without you?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( stares at him , stricken . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I. I'll get the grits.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA FOLLOWS Rose as she exits , and STOPS on Buddy and Doll . Buddy slews his eyes toward his sister , who meets his gaze for a moment then looks down at her plate . The CAMERA MOVES on to Mother , who is utterly oblivious of anything going on between Rose and Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose does have a gift for cooking. She learns so fast, but mainly I think it's that she tries so hard.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT (LATER)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on the family as they eat dinner . Rose is seated at the table now . She is picking lifelessly at her food and glancing from time to time with a lovesick expression at Daddy , who is busy eating and seems wholly unaware of it . Mother also is wholly unaware , but all the children know what is happening . Rose takes a gravy for a biscuit and spills a little , her hand is trembling .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently , suspects absolutely nothing . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, you're in an awful dither tonight. What's the matter with you, honey, are you sick or something?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a feeble voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, ma'am, I'm just fine.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You look sick if you ask me. I hate to leave you with the dishes and all, but I'm supposed to go to a meeting of the Garden Club this evening.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( to Daddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'll need the car keys.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'll drive you, darlin'. You've got no business behind the wheel of an automobile. You do n't think about what you're doing and you'll run into a telephone pole.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I think about what I'm doing all the time, and I've got as much business behind the wheel of an automobile as anybody. Besides, I want you to stay and help Rose with the dishes, the poor girl is n't feeling well.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right, darlin'.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT (LATER)</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy alone in the dining room , reading a newspaper and drinking coffee . Rose comes INTO THE PICTURE , gets dishes as she clears the table . She stares with a lovesick expression at Daddy , who is absorbed in paper .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( to himself , mostly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Hmmp. Did you realize there are a thousand Coca - Cola millionaires in Atlanta?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll tiptoeing down the darkened hall toward the front door . We hear the MODEL - A going down the drive . They peer out of the glass of the front door . They whisper .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>There goes Mother.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Let's go peep from the living room.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Okay.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA FOLLOWS them as they tiptoe into the darkened living room . They go over to the sliding doors and silently struggle for the best peeping spot . Buddy gets up high , Doll down low , at the crack in the doors through which light shines .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of the dining room , as seen by children . Daddy sits absorbed in his paper , oblivious of Rose . She is staring down at him with a pale look of love .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a CLOSE - UP of Buddy and Doll , their heads together . They whisper .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>I think she's gon na kiss him.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>At least.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of Daddy and Rose , as seen by children . The table now is cleared and Rose stands half behind Daddy , staring down at him with a stricken expression .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( half to himself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ehh, Lord, should have bought that stock when we had some money. A thousand millionaires.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose suddenly makes up her mind , places her hand on his shoulder , turns sideways , sits down on his lap , puts an arm around his neck .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, oh! Oh, Mr. Hillyer, I love you, I love you so much! I've tried, but I ca n't help it! Please kiss me - will you kiss me?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>For a long time Daddy stares groggily at her with a half frown as if he ca n't believe it . In order to stare at her , he must tilt his head back and , handsome man though he is , he looks a bit like a startled rooster . Her breasts are pressed against him , and her eager - pink lips are waiting for a kiss .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( finally clears his throat . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ahh - hem! Now, Rose, get off my lap. What are you doing, girl? Are you crazy?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, crazy about you! Kiss me, Mr. Hillyer!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Why, I'm not going to kiss you, you crazy girl. Now I'm telling you again, get off my lap. Come on, Rose, get up. Now you get up, I say, and stop this!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>No, no! You do n't understand, I love you! It's real love and I ca n't help it! Please kiss me, Mr. Hillyer, I love you, I love you so much.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose breaks down and begins crying , her head on his shoulder . She has her arms wound tight around him and Daddy seems at a loss what to do .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a shaken voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right, all right. Now calm down, Rose, the children will hear you. Calm down, let's talk. about this thing, let's discuss it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( sobbing . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do n't make me. me. me. get up!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Calm down, Rose, let's calm down and discuss it.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOKE - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll . Doll is down near the floor and ca n't see as well . They whisper .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>I ca n't see. What are they doing, what's happening?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>They're discussing it.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>I ca n't see, let me see.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Doll tries to rise up and Buddy puts a hand on her head and shoves her down .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>This is my place and you ca n't have it.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( a whispered moan of frustration . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ohhh - hh. what's happening now?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( his eyes open wide . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He's trying to get up - good God, one of her titties is out!</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Let me see!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of Daddy and Rose , as he struggles to rise from the chair . They are half falling to the floor and now they fall , Rose still on his lap . One of her breasts has come out of her dress , which is very loose and low - cut . She has no bra , the breast is bare . Daddy is staring groggily at the breast as if slightly dazed .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT BACK TO Buddy and Doll . Buddy is frustrated now .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Now I ca n't see. What are they doing?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( happy , peeping through crack . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Boy! Wow!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy groans and peers intently through crack .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A POV shot of scene as observed by Buddy . He is up too high , the dining table blocks his view . We see the lower half of Rose and Daddy . Rose 's skirt is up well above her knees .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Wow! Brrrother!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>What are they doing?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, this is amazing, you would n't believe it.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>What are they doing, Doll?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( staring , enthralled . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He kissed her.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Is that all?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( happily , enjoying it . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He had his hand on her titty.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Let me look.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( ca n't stand it , grabs her around waist and pulls her away ; eagerly looks , sags . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Aww - rr.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of the scene in the dining room .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>DOWN LOW , we can see under the dining room table now . Daddy has his hands on Rose 's shoulders and is firmly pushing her away .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right, that is enough of this nonsense, and I mean enough! Get up off this floor, Rose, and put your damned tit back in your dress! Do you hear me, girl, get up off of that floor!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose , on all fours , blonde hair over her face , making little whimpering noises of dismay :</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Ohh - hhh. ohh.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Buddy and Doll .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( disappointed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She's putting the titty back.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( a furious whisper . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, that was my place.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Doll forces her way in and they both peep through crack in door .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of Rose and Daddy . Rose stands sheepishly by the dining room table , half - crying as she adjusts her dress . Daddy sits in his dining room chair . Daddy is glaring at her .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Goddamn you, girl! You've made me make a fool out of myself, damn your hide, but let me tell you I am standing at the pass of Thermopylae and I wo n't budge! The very idea, my own home with children in the house, to say nothing of my wife - oh - h, you had better believe I am standing at Thermopylae, you little nut, you had better believe it! What are you, crazy? A man is supposed to be a fool like this, but a woman is supposed to have some control and sense! Are you a nitwit? What's the matter with you?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( weeping . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh - h, I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Mr. Hillyer. I just. could n't help myself. I'm sorry.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll as they peep at the door . Doll whispers angrily at him .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, that was pretty snotty of you, pushing me away like that just when it was interesting.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>You should n't watch such things, Doll.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>They continue to peep with interest through the crack in the doors .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and Daddy . Now Rose is sitting penitent and crying in one of Daddy 's handkerchiefs . Daddy 's anger is gone , he has gotten control of himself and speaks to her now in a different tone . He sits beside her , an arm around her shoulders in a fatherly way .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, Rose, Rose, you poor miserable little child, do n't you know I love you? Do I have to put my hand on your body or kiss your pretty lips to prove it? You are beautiful to me, Rose, I've loved you since you first came here, darlin'. And do n't you know Mrs. Hillyer loves you, too, that she's already taken you into her heart, and that that woman's heart is as wide as the blue sky itself and as deep as the stars?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( weeping in handkerchief . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, I know. She's so sweet, she's been so good to me.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Do you know what a friend you have got there? Do you know she would fight for you like a tiger, that she would fly to your defense in an instant with all the courage in her soul if anyone tried to hurt you? Is this any way to repay her trust and love? Are you ashamed as I am ashamed?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses as Rose sobs in handkerchief . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do n't cry, honey, do n't cry. But let me warn you, damn your hide, this is Thermopylae and I am standing here. Do you hear me, damn you. I am standing at Thermopylae and the Persians shall not pass! Now get your tail out of here and go wash those dishes, and stop crying!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Buddy and Doll in the darkened living room . He gestures that they 'd better leave , and they do . The CAMERA FOLLOWS them as they tiptoe out of the living room .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT STAIRS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on Buddy and Doll as they tiptoe up the front stairs .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - TOP OF STAIRS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Buddy and Doll at the top of the stairs . They pause to talk and now they do n't have to whisper . Doll is happy , pleased .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Was n't Daddy wonderful? He wanted to kiss her some more and play with her, but he did n't, because he loves Mother and all of us, and he loves Rose, too. Is n't he wonderful, is n't he great?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( dryly , aloof ; he does n't mean this really . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Wonderful? He kissed her and played with her titty, and I do n't see anything so great about that. He was probably afraid Mother would come back early and catch him.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>You know, Buddy, sometimes you make me sick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Doll gives him a venomous glance and walks away . The CAMERA STAYS on Buddy as he stares after her with a thin little smile . Be seems wryly amused that he has made her angry . After a moment , he turns and stares in the direction of downstairs and his face changes . His smile fades , then slowly returns as he thinks of what has happened .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( quietly , to himself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Thermopylae. The Persians shall not pass.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It is obvious that secretly Buddy admires very much his father 's behavior .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Buddy at night in his small bedroom . He wears a rather skimpy old - fashioned nightshirt that comes midway between his hips and knees . At the moment he is finishing brushing his teeth at the bureau , using an old fashioned water pitcher and bowl . The CAMERA FOLLOWS as he walks across the room in the light of the lamp by his bed . He looks around cautiously , then picks up the mattress of his bed . He pushes it far back and we see springs . He takes out a small `` book '' or pamphlet and stares gravely at it . CLOSE - UP : The front cover of the pamphlet . We see the overall title : LITTLE DIRTY COMIC BOOKS . And beneath it : BLONDIE AND DAGWOOD . And beneath that , in smaller letters : `` Mr. Dithers Comes to Dinner - and How ! '' We see Buddy 's hands in the shot , and he opens the pamphlet and we catch enough of a glimpse of the thing to know it is pretty awful - a drawing maybe of `` Blondie '' stark naked with a finger in her mouth going , `` Tee - Hee ! '' ON Buddy , as he stares down with grave intentness at the Little Dirty Comic Book . Slyly now , he retraces his steps to the bureau and takes out a flashlight . He goes back to the bed , switches off the lamp , gets in the bed and turns on the flashlight and pulls the covers over his head . We hear a faint SOUND on the track and Buddy suddenly yanks back the covers , puts the flashlight on the table by the bed and throws the Little Dirty Comic Book under the bed . He lies on pillow and pretends he 's asleep , and we hear the door of his room OPEN and a CREAKING on the floor . ANOTHER ANGLE , on a weepy Rose in a very thin nightgown . The shot is FROM BELOW as Buddy might see her as she stands over his bed . She looks very lonely and unhappy and is half crying .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy. are you asleep?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on both of them . Buddy stares at her in surprise . It is dim in the room , but we can see them in the moonlight .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, I'm awake. What's the matter?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I am wandering in a wilderness, lost.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( sits glumly on edge of bed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I just feel awful. Do you mind if I get in bed with you for a little while?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, all right.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on Rose and Buddy in the bed in the moonlight . It is all innocent enough , Buddy is a child and Rose obviously has no lewd intent in getting into his bed . She lies back on a pillow staring up at the ceiling and smoking a cigarette .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I thought I'd go crazy back there in that room all by myself with nobody to talk to. As a child, I never had no room all to myself, we were awful poor. Buddy. I have got a confession to make.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>What is it, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>It's so terrible I ca n't tell you. Oh, Buddy, you do n't know how it hurts to have a broken heart, what a terrible feeling it is, and I've had a broken heart so many times. Men, I do n't understand them, I ca n't figure them out and they break my heart, that's all. I ca n't find Mr. Right, Buddy, I ca n't find him no matter how hard I look, all I find is a whole pile of Mr. Wrongs. But this is the worst ever because it was n't his fault. It was my fault, oh yes, my fault, I was bad - oh God, I was bad, you would n't believe how bad I was.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a little smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What'd you do, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I was horrible. I ca n't tell you who it was, but do you know what I did? I sat on his lap and got ahold of him and wiggled and wiggled my ass on him and was worse'n you could know, a child like you. Why, I let one of my tits fall out deliberate on purpose and practically smack him in the face with it and I let my dern skirt come up so he could see my drawers.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , realizes this is n't too dignified . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But to get back serious to what I was sayin', it is not only, Buddy, the loss of him but my own bad behavior what bothers me so.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>You were pretty bad, huh?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Why, it has just made me ill, Buddy. I'm sick. I do n't want to eat nothin', I do n't, and me I got a good appetite, that ai n't nat ` ral for me. I'm ill.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( slyly , pretends he does n't know . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But, Rose, what is the cause of it all?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Promise not to tell Doll? - or nobody? Buddy, it's your Daddy! I'm so much in love with him I am out of my mind!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>But, Rose, how could such a thing as that happen?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I fell madly in love with him when he called me Rosebud. You know that first day when I come and he said I looked graceful like a capital letter S and called me Rosebud? I fell madly in love with that man right then.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( sighs tragically . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But it's a lost love, Buddy. He's a good man and wo n't have nothin' to do with me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on Rose and Buddy in the bed . Buddy has propped on an elbow and is staring down at her breasts in the moonlight - we see the soft notch between her breasts in the open V of her thin nightgown . She is completely unself conscious with him .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( casually . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Can I touch you here?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Before she can answer , he touches her breast with his finger through her nightgown .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Hmmm, it's soft. It's awful soft.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( casually , does n't object . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What did you expect?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I thought they were more like a cantaloupe.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Ha ha ha, that's some idea, a cantaloupe.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( touches her breast more boldly , his hand outside the nightgown . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>There's some kind of gristle in it, though.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, quit that, you're just a child, you're not supposed to be interested in such things.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Actually, I am, though.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( dreamily , thinking of Daddy as she smokes cigarette and stares up at the ceiling . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You know, that Daddy of yours is the funniest man, the things he says, you never know what's going to come out of his mouth next.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Can I put my hand inside your nightgown, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>No, you ca n't. And I'll tell you this - he scares me. As kind as he is, he scares me. You ca n't fool around with him, not with that man. And, boy, I sure better not try nothin' like that with him again, he'll fire me.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, ca n't I see what the nipple on it is like?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( frowns . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, what's come over you? A child like you, askin' such things.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>But I'm curious, Rose.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Puts his hand in her nightgown .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, get your hand offa me! Quit it, get you hand away.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Takes his wrist .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Just for a second. Please, Rose, what's the harm?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, you do n't realize it but what you're doing is n't nice.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Aw, come on, Rose, I want to see what the nipple on it is like.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You don' t need to know that. It's none of your business.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Aw, be a good sport, Rose.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( sweetly , almost sugarily . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You like me, do n't you? I like you a lot.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother 's bedroom - study in the moonlight . We see Daddy lying wide - awake in a single bed staring broodingly out into space . Mother lies asleep in a big four poster in the background of the shot . Daddy sighs wearily to himself in the grip of `` insomnia in reverse . ''</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT BACK to Buddy and Rose in bed . He has evidently sweet talked her into letting him fiddle with her ; his hand is - in her nightgown . There is no indication of lewd interest on Rose 's part , a peeved and exasperated look is on her face . Buddy seems quite fascinated , however .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, are you satisfied now? Can we just lie and talk, huh?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Hmmph. It has a nipple, all right.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>` Course it does.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>First I could n't feel it, but now I feel it easily, it's like a little acorn.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( moistens her lips , swallows ; it is affecting her ; she frowns . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right, that's enough.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( firmly pushes his hand away . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're just a child and would n't understand it, but that type of thing can stir a girl up. Now lie back and we'll talk.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>That was very interesting. Thank you, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( lighting cigarette . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do n't mention it.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( pensively , with the solemn pedanticness of a precocious child . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It was softer'n I thought, that was my main impression. You know, if you hit a girl there it would hurt her a lot.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Who would want to do such a thing as that?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, some fiend might.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( stares wonderingly at him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You know, Buddy, sometimes I ca n't figure you out at all. You can be very nice, but like your mother said there's an evil streak in you.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>There's an evil streak in everybody, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>There ai n't none in your Daddy. You know, what happened has just made me love him all the more. I not only love him, I respect him, I admire him.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, I have a serious favor to ask you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Most men would n't do what he done. If they can get a girl they go right ahead and get her - I guess to hell they do, just like a dern rabbit. ` Course later they'll tell her she's no good when they done the same thing their selves. They're a bunch of monkeys. I like'em, but they're a bunch of monkeys.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( trying to be casual . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, since you're here in bed with me and everything and I've already touched your titty.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Ca n't quite say it ; leans over and whispers in her ear and we do n't hear what he says .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( her eyes open wide as he whispers . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Why, Buddy, shut your mouth! What an awful thing to say, and where did you get any such idea as that, anyhow?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm curious to see what it's like. I'm very curious, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, now that is just too bad! Curiosity killed the cat.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, but satisfaction brought him back. Can I?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>No! You ought to be ashamed of yourself astin' such a nasty things a child your age!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Ca n't I touch it a little, Rose - not a lot, just a little?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Of course you ca n't! I'm. I'm shocked at you, Buddy, real shocked! Now you be quiet or I'm going back to my own bed!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Please, Rose. I'm curious, that's all, I have a natural curiosity, it's only human. You're my friend, are n't you? Do n't you like me?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( again sweetly , almost sugarily . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I like you, Rose, a lot - in fact, I love you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( softens despite herself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, you're sweet, but you do n't really love me.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, I do. Please, Rose, be a good sport.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, you're just a child.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm thirteen. And I have a natural curiosity. It's only nature, Rose, that's all. Now what's wrong with nature, huh?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, nothin'.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy sitting on the edge of his bed in pajamas . He looks frowzle - haired and glum . The CAMERA FOLLOWS him as he wearily gets up and walks across the bedroom in the moonlight and takes a package of cigarettes from a bureau . Be glances over his shoulder as we hear Mother .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What's the matter, hon? Is anything wrong?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, darlin'. Just that damnable insomnia in reverse. I sleep like a baby for an hour then I'm wide awake. You go back to sleep.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy lights a cigarette and walks to the window and stares out at the moonlit night . The CAMERA MOVES IN CLOSER on his face and we see a weariness and strain he has not shown before .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>The Depression has got me. That miserable hotel, no money anywhere, strong men out of work, children hungry. It's a great life if you do n't weaken.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot close on Rose and Buddy in bed . Evidently Rose has weakened and is allowing him to fiddle with her , but we can only surmise this , the shot is on their heads and shoulders and a cloud has crossed the moon , the light is more dim . A different look is on her face , a solemn expression as if she is listening to some far away sound that she finds strangely haunting . She moistens her lips , speaks in a slightly feeble voice .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You better quit that.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>But Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I must be outta my mind. Buddy, quit it.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Am I hurting you?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , stares off as if listening , then in an even feebler tone , a half whisper . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. No, you're not hurting me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( moistens her lips , swallows . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But I think you better quit it.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>But why, if I'm not hurting you?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You would n't understand.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( puts a hand on his shoulder as if to push him away , but ca n't ; puts her other hand over her eyes . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, God, I must be outta my mind. What would your Momma think?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The hand falls limply from Rose 's eyes and she turns her head to the side and closes her eyes . Helplessly , she lies there as the boy fiddles with her .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy walking down the downstairs hall in a bathrobe and slippers . He looks very frowzled and sleepy .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Daddy as he walks into the kitchen , turns on the light . He goes to the ice box , an old - fashioned type made of wood that takes cakes of ice . Be pours out a glass of milk .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER ROME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a very CLOSE SHOT on Rose 's face . The light is dim but we see perspiration on her forehead . Her breathing is not normal . Her eyes are shut tight , her teeth are clenched . CUT TO a shot CLOSE on Buddy . We do not see what he is doing , but evidently he is fiddling with her . He seems quite interested in the proceedings .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, beyond a doubt this is the most fascinating experience of my life.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy in the kitchen as he sits rather gloomily at the kitchen table drinking the glass Of milk .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( to himself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ehh - hh, Lord, man born of woman hath few days and they are full of trouble.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot close on Rose ai Buddy in the bed . The shot is of their heads and shoulders . She has an arm very tight around his shoulders and her eyes are shut tight . The moment of truth is at hand .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Ohh - hh! Ohhh - hh!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( it 's all over ; she twists sideways , puts both arms around him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, Buddy, you're so sweet. I love you a lot.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy as he washes out the glass in the sink .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and Buddy in the bed . The extremity of her crime has dawned on Rose and she is sitting up in the bed with a look of horror on her face . Buddy is staring worriedly at her .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, are you all right? Are you sick or something?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( staring off in space , lost in horror . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. No, I'm all right.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( turns , stares at him , puts a hand in woe on her forehead . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, God, what have I done? I have robbed a cradle and fallen into hell!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( fumbles desperately on bed for cigarettes . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I must be crazy, a child like you. Oh, God, oh, Lord. This is awful, this is terrible, I got ta get outta here!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on Rose and Buddy as Rose in a panic gets out of the bed , pulls down her thin nightgown and tiptoes toward the door . She stops and looks back as a chilling thought occurs to her .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, you would n't tell nobody, would you?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a trifle too piously . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Do n't worry, Rose, I wo n't tell a soul.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I sure hope you do n't.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( still in a panic . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I got ta get outta here, good night.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( sweetly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Good night, Rose.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER SOME - UPSTAIRS HALL AND DOWNSTAIRS HALL</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy walking down the downstairs hall in his bathrobe . The shot is down the staircase and Rose in the upstairs hall tiptoes into the picture . A floorboard creaks and he looks up and sees her .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, what are you doing up?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Nothin', just goin' to the bathroom.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Is anything wrong?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>No, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, good night.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Rose in the upstairs hall . Fortunately for her the light is dim . Her knees are shaking beneath the nightgown , she looks as if she might faint .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Good night.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA FOLLOWS her as she goes on shaky legs down the hall .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose as she enters her small bedroom . Feebly , as if totally exhausted , she shuts the door behind her then leans against a bureau and states into its mirror . The horror of her own criminality has overwhelmed her . With trembling hands , she takes a cigarette from her half empty pack and finds a wooden kitchen match on the bureau . Her hands tremble visibly as she strikes the match . She has not turned on the light in her room and her considerable charms are very apparent in the orange glow of the match . Burning match in her fingers , she stares at her own reflection in the bureau mirror , transfixed by a horrible realization .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DREAM - CELLAR</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>QUICK DISSOLVE TO BLURRED SCREEN : the border of the screen is blurred , we are obviously seeing a nightmare fantasy . The shot is of an eager , excited , diabolically mischievous Buddy and an astonished , awed DOLL . They are in some far dark recess of the cellar of the house and the scene is furtive , murky , cobwebby .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Wait till you hear what happened! Now you wont believe this, Doll, but Rose came in my room and got in my bed last night.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Buddy from below with candlelight giving his child 's face a sinister look . Now he has `` Dracula '' teeth and evil arched eyebrows .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>and she sweated and snorted like a horse and had a horrible fit, her eyebrows were all scrunched up and she groaned like she was eying and foamed at the mouth!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose standing horrified before the mirror . The match is still burning in her fingers .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM/STUDY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Mother in her study , a worried Doll stands before her . The border of the screen is blurred , it is another flash of fantasy .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, dear, what is it?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Mother, Buddy says Rose got in his bed last night and he fiddled with her and she snorted and had a fit - and he says I would too if I was grown - up. Is it true, Mother - would I sweat and snort and froth at the mouth and have a horrible fit like he says?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother stares in consternation at Doll .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT PORCH - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy and Rose on the front porch of the house . The scene is murky , dark , gloomy night and the weather is bad . Daddy has his arm rigidly thrust outward as he points down the driveway . A weeping , slumped Rose sadly walks down the steps carrying her cardboard suitcase . Fantasy .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Out! Out, you viper in the grass! Out! Never darken our doorstep, you immoral, terrible girl!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT BACK to Rose standing before the mirror , sick with horror . A feeble whimper - like groan comes from her .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Ohh - hh, ohhh - hh.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( match burns her fingers , she shakes it out . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ouch! Oh - hh. ohh.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Rose as she turns from the bureau and stares off into space , a very badly frightened girl . Half - crying , she speaks to herself .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He'll tell'em for sure, he will. Oh, Lord, what can I do?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy half asleep in bed . The light of the lamp by his bed goes on and he sleepily opens his eyes . The CAMERA COMES BACK and we see Rose in her nightgown standing by his bedside . She is very pale and tears are on her cheeks .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I hate to turn on this light, you Daddy's awake downstairs, but I have to take the chance.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( sits by him on bed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, please do n't tell on me.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( rather coolly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I said I would n't.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( her lip trembles . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I have to ask you, as bad as I've been please have pity on me and do n't ruin me by telling them what I did. I know it was bad, it was bad and dumb. But mostly it was dumb, I did n't mean you no harm, I'd never want to hurt a hair on your head and that's the truth. I love you. But they'd think I did, they'd think I was awful, they'd despise me and hate me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose bows her head and begins crying into her hands . CUT TO a CLOSE SHOT of Buddy . We hear the soft sound of Rose weeping over the shot . Buddy is affected , his flinty child 's heart has been touched , but he is not quite ready to admit it yet . He is struggling with himself , trying to remain `` cool '' and not show his emotion . He frowns , moistens his lips , swallows . With seeming coolness , very much as in the scene with Doll in which he deprecated Daddy 's stand at Thermopylae , he shrugs .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I do n't know what you're worried about. It was my idea, I was the one who thought of it, not you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA PULLS BACK to include Rose . She is staring at the boy with hopeless despair .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You do n't understand. They'd blame me, not you. And they'd think I was awful, a disgustin' girl, which I am, but Buddy, please do n't tell them. Please do n't. Ill have to go and I love it here, I love your whole fam ` ly, your Daddy, your Mother.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then makes her final and ultimate plea in a shaking voice as tears run down . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I know I'm no good, I'm a bad girl but I ca n't help it, please have pity on me and do n't tell! Please do n't, please.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Too much for Buddy , he loses his `` cool . '' He swallows and blinks as if he might cry , then sits erect in the bed and squares his shoulders and assumes a stern expression Daddy style .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( very solemnly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, they could stick splinters under my fingernails, and I will never say a word! I will never tell them, because. I love you!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( sees that he means it , smiles in relief and throws her arms around him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, Buddy, you do love me! I knew you did, knew it all the time.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , lying in bed and staring up sleeplessly at the ceiling . Insomnia in reverse has got him .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a half whisper to himself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ehh - hh, Lord. great life if you do n't weaken.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and Buddy . Rose is sitting on the bed beside him and she has dried her tears and got herself in hand .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, Ill tell you this. I have learned a lesson tonight. I was n't gon na run around, but when I start botherin' your Daddy and worse robbin' a cradle, I got ta face the facts of life.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then with firm resolution . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Tomorrow mornin', I'm gon na get myself up and go out.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a wee mite puzzled . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're going to get yourself up and go out?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, Mr. Right is out there somewhere and I'm gon na find him!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of a coolly angry Mother in the kitchen . It is late morning . As she talks the CAMERA PULLS BACK to show a sheepish Buddy standing `` on the carpet before her . The other children , Doll and Waski , are seated at the kitchen table having hamburgers for lunch . They are happily smiling with schadenfreude amusement at their brother 's discomfiture .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Brother, when I have to wake you up at eleven o'clock in the morning you're either sick or you were up very late last night.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( points a finger at him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And you were n't reading Huckleberry Finn. I looked and its not in your room. Now what were you doing?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( sheepish . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mother, I have to tell the truth. I was n't reading Huckleberry Finn, I was reading one of those Little Dirty Comic Books.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( sadly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, Brother, I am so disappointed in you. You must n't look at those horrible things, they degrade the human image.</dialogue>
    <character>BROTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( hangs head . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>They're filthy, Mother.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Sex is n't ugly, sex is one of the most beautiful things in life, the creative power of the universe is behind it.</dialogue>
    <character>BROTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I know, Mother.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>But we must respect that power, we must be in awe of it.</dialogue>
    <character>BROTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I am in awe of it, Mother.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't think you are sufficiently in awe of it. Get the castor oil.</dialogue>
    <character>BROTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( winces , as Doll and Waski happily smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, Mother, not the castor oil.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>This is n't punishment, I do n't believe in punishment. It's for your health. Obviously you're sick if you can act like that.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As she talks , Buddy reluctantly gets a bottle of castor oil and a tablespoon from a shelf and brings it to her . A smiling Doll comes forward and hands Buddy half of an orange . He makes a face at her . Mother takes the bottle and pours out a tablespoon of castor oil .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( wanly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mother, cant you make it calomel instead of castor oil?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>This is for your own good. When you look at negative, destructive things like those little filthy comic books, you are sick. Here, take this.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( he is resigned , there 's no way out ; he makes a face , swallows the castor oil . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Geccch, yehh, guhhhh!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Stop gagging like that and putting on a show, and swallow it.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Uhhh, gahdam stuff!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What did you say, Brother?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I said ahhh - dam stuff.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>No, you did n't say that, Brother.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, I did, mother. Your hearing aid is n't working right. I said ahhh - dam stuff.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>No, Mother, he's lying.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Shut up, Doll. I'll cut your guts</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <parenthetical>( happily excited , stammering . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>He did lie, and. and. and Mother, yesterday he stole money out of your pocketbook!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Quiet, you little muddy - eyed brat, or Ill kill you!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Children, children! Be quiet, all of you!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( the children at once simmer down . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The vibrations in this house are strange today. Where's Rose, anyhow?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>She's getting herself up to go out.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( frowns , adjusts hearing aid . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What'd you say, Brother?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>She's getting herself up to go out. I think she's coming down the hall now.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, yes, it's Thursday.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( glances around at sound of an opening door . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Hello, Rose, dear.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( her eyes open wide as she stares at Rose , disconcerted ; now weakly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>. my, you're. looking pretty.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose in the doorway of the kitchen . She is quite an apparition . She wears bright red lipstick , pink rouge on her cheeks , mascara and her hair is coiffed up in some outlandish manner , but her clothes are the most remarkable thing of all . The skirt is of strange , pink , semi - shiny and very thin material and has about a dozen tiny little flowers that could be rosebuds sewed on it . It fits extremely snugly to say the least . The blouse seems a composite : it has frilly white sleeves that are opaque and otherwise is made of filmy white material that is hardly opaque at all . She has no bra and her breasts are half visible , the nipples denting the material . It is pretty wild for 1935 . She seems to have on no underwear of any kind ; the skirt , which clings to her like a bathing suit , shows no panty seams . She is carrying a shiny black patent leather pocketbook and has on high heel black patent leather shoes and no stockings . An ingenuous little smile is on her face .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>How do you like my outfit? I made most of it myself.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose walks in , `` modeling '' the outfit and the CAMERA PICKS UP Mother .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( smiling , slightly aghast . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, it's. very gay.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>We hear the SOUND of the Model A on the driveway .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Here comes Daddy.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( staring down admiringly at the outfit . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I have a knack for designing clothes. But I had to buy the shoes and the pocketbook.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( makes up her mind to defend Rose . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I think it's charming, Rose.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( tactfully . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But do n't you think. ah, the skirt is a little tight?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, no, that's the style. It's meant to be clinging.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>We hear the PORCH DOOR SLAM . Smiling , happy , Rose glances around . We hear the SOUND of the kitchen door opening . CUT TO a POV SHOT of Daddy in the kitchen doorway . As usual , he has a rolled - up Glenville Tribune in his hand and a Straw hat on the back of his head.His hands are on his hips and he is hunched forward as if he can not believe what he sees .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Ye gods and little fishes. What have you done to yourself, Rose?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ON THEM ALL . Rose is smiling , happy to be the center of attention .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Nothin'. I got myself up, that's all.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Got yourself up?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah. I'm goin' out.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy walks slowly into the kitchen shaking his head . Sits at table .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Um - hmm. Well, that is the damndest outfit I ever saw in my life. You walk down the street like that and they'll put you in jail, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Why, they wo n't either. She looks pretty. And I wish you would n't pick on the poor girl all the time. Do n't listen to him, Rose, you look pretty, even beautiful.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( smiles affectionately at Mother . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're so sweet.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>If you've got time before you go `` out,'' get me a half - a - cup of coffee, Rose. Not a whole cup, a half - a - cup.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Why, sure, always got time to get you a half - a - cup, and one of these days I'm gon na get you a whole cup and see what happens.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a growl , does n't like jokes about his foibles . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Um - hmmuhh. I never drink a whole cup, my nerves ca n't stand the caffeine. Ehh - hh, Lord awful insomnia in reverse last night. Lay there and sweated blood for hours.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( sweetly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Daddy, Buddy was up late last night reading little dirty comic books. Mother gave him a dose of castor oil and he cursed it, he took the Lords name in vain, then claimed he had n't said it. He lied, Daddy.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You must n't be a tattletale, dear. You must n't be Delilah - ish and Jezebel - ish toward your brother, dear.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>I'm only trying to help him, Mother.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Heh, what a hypocrite.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( to Daddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do wish you'd speak to Brother. It's true he's been looking at those horrible little books again.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( stares sternly at Buddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Lay off of that stuff, son. It upsets your mother.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( genuinely worried . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm serious. We forget he's just a child. I wish you'd speak to him.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'll take him with me downtown.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( glances at Rose as she comes with coffee . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And you, too, Rose, if you want a ride.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Sure, love one. Here's your half - a cup of coffee.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy is staring with a very dubious frown at Rose 's skirt . He slowly shakes his head .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>That's a pretty stylish skirt, Rose. The only thing I do n't understand is how did you ever get it on.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( happy , pleased by his interest . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, it has buttons.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Points to little buttons on right side of the skirt .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>How can the buttons stand the pressure?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>There are more on the other side.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Points to buttons on left side .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Turn around, darlin'.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Happy to oblige , Rose turns around . Her plump , round , feminine behind is only too plainly revealed through the thin material . Daddy slowly shakes his head .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>They'll put her in jail. The damn little fool might as well be naked.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( a wee mite worried . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, it is a little tight. But it is n't as bad as all that. No one will notice unless they have such thoughts in the first place.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Who does n't have such thoughts?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( glances at wristwatch . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We'd better get going.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You're not having lunch?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Just half - a - cup of coffee. I never eat, darlin', you know that. Not eating and reverse insomnia are my curses. Let's go, Rose, you and Brother, let's hit the road.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you and Brother wait in the car. I want to speak for a moment Lo Mr. Hillyer.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, Ma'am.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Doll, you and Waski run on, too.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and Buddy as they walk out onto the patio of the house . Rose walks down the steps to the flower garden and Buddy follows . ANOTHER ANGLE on Rose and Buddy as Rose picks a red rose and puts it in her hair . '</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Did your Momma really give you castor oil?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( puts an arm around his shoulders . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You're my sweetheart.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Mother and Daddy at the kitchen table .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( earnestly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I wish you would n't pick on Rose and tease her like that. Of course her clothes are silly, but she's ignorant, naive, she does n't know any better.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>The girl worries me. If she walks down the street like that, an army will be following her.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I admit that outfit is n't very modest. But she does n't mean any harm, she just wants to attract, attention.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>She will succeed.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't think you understand her. It is n't sex she wants, it's love she wants and this is the only way she knows how to get it.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( musingly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That farmer in Gadsden was awful eager to get rid of her, and I'm beginning to see why.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>He and his wife both said she had a fine moral character and was wonderful with children.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, she loves children, all right.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( adds dryly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She loves everybody.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>But that's a wonderful quality, not a bad quality.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( takes his hand . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Have a little patience with her. She's such a good - hearted little thing and tries so hard.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( stares pensively at her . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You are the one who's good - hearted.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( rises . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>As for Rose, let's hope for the best.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( rises , again takes his hand . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Be kind to her. She loves you so much.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( Daddy stiffens slightly , and she adds . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>In a perfectly proper way, of course.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, of course.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and Buddy waiting in a Model A. Rose is smiling , happy to be going out . The red rose is prominent in her hair , Daddy walks INTO THE SHOT , gets into the driver 's seat of the car , He glances in a wry manner at the flower in her hair .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>What have you got in your hair, girl?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>My rose. It's kind of like a motto. People will say, there comes Rose with her rose.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy gives her another wry stare and starts the Model A. CUT TO a shot of the Model A going down the driveway .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A IN TOWN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER SHOT or two of the Model A on the quiet summer streets of a sleepy little town in the Depression South of years ago .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , Rose and Buddy in the car . Buddy is in the middle . Daddy is staring expressionlessly straight ahead . His tone is sternly neutral as he speaks .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You were up late last night, Brother.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, a little.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Reading dirty comic bocks.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( glances shrewdly at him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And you admitted it?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a trifle uncomfortable . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, yeah.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Both Rose and Buddy begin to look increasingly tense . Hawkshaw the Detective is on the scent . Daddy stares ahead .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You were up late last night, too, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( meekly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir. I had to go to the bathroom.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A long pause , as Daddy stares ahead . His expression is inscrutable .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( finally , `` casually '' . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Sometimes I think I was born to be a detective. I get a feeling about things. I'm not always right, but often I am.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A BY LIGHT - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model A as it stops for a red light .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , Rose and Buddy in the car . Daddy turns and stares sternly at Buddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Son, was Rose in your room last night?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( scared , but a good liar . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No. Why should Rose be in my room?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy sternly scans them both . They stare back `` innocently '' at him . Finally he seems to accept it .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I ca n't imagine why. It was just a thought.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy shifts gears and faces front . Buddy glances upward in relief , as if to say , `` Wow , that was close . ''</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Where do you want me to let you out, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, anywhere downtown.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You do n't know where you're going?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, I'll just mosey around here and there.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model A as it stops off the main street of a small sleepy Southern town .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot through the side window on Rose , Buddy and Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Is this ill right?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>It'll do just fine.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( gets out of car . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Bye - bye, see you later.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose waves goodbye and walks off down the sidewalk , swinging her hips and her pocketbook ,</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a front shot of Daddy and Buddy in the car as they stare after Rose .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of POV Daddy and Buddy of Rose walking along . MUSIC .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Daddy and Buddy . Daddy slowly shakes his head , shifts gears .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model A as it rolls along the main street .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER SHOT of the Model A as it abruptly turns a corner .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON the Model A as it abruptly turns around corner . Evidently it is circling the block .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose as she walks along , swinging her hips and her pocketbook and smiling at whoever she sees . She passes a few people and she smiles cheerfully at them - the men stare with a flat interest at her and the women frown , but she smiles at one and all .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL A</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model A as it creeps along .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>On Daddy and Buddy in the car . DADDY They might arrest her . I doubt it , but they might .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - BUS STOP - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose as she walks up to a bus stop . A fairly WELL - DRESSED MAN with a door - to - door salesman kit is standing there . Rose glances at him then sidles up alongside him as if she 's waiting for a bus . He glances at her for a moment with interest , but does n't want to stare , looks away . We see the Model A stop in the background of the SHOT .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy in the car , watching Rose .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and the Young Salesman . Rose glances at the man , glances at him again , then sighs and speaks .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>My feet sure do hurt.</dialogue>
    <character>YOUNG SALESMAN</character>
    <parenthetical>( turns to her with a slow smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, yeah?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy in the car , watching .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a LONG POV SHOT of Rose and the Young Salesman . They are talking amiably . Both are smiling .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>She has made contact.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO ANOTHER POV SHOT of Rose and the Young Salesman . It is another LONG SHOT . MUSIC ON TRACK . They are smiling , talking . The Young Salesman seems to ask Rose a question . She nods and takes his arm and they walk off .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO Daddy and Buddy . Daddy is staring pensively at the scene .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I never saw anything like it. How did she pick him up so fast?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't know.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>The girl strikes like a cobra.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Slowly shaking his head , Daddy starts the car .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Rose and the Young Salesman as they walk along . She is holding his arm and they are smiling and talking as if the best of friends . We hear MUSIC ON THE TRACK . The MUSIC continues over the following MONTAGE OF SHOTS .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HONKY TONK - VARIOUS SHOTS</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Rose in a beer `` honky tonk '' with the Young Salesman in a booth . He is drinking beer , she is drinking Coca Cola from a bottle . ON Rose in the booth , ANOTHER ANGLE . A second man has joined them , a big beefy man - he is BUSTER .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET - LATE AFTERNOON</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Rose as she walks down a sidewalk in late afternoon with Buster and still another man , a tall fellow in a Coca - Cola Delivery Man 's uniform or shirt . Rose seems to be innocently happy , but the men appear to be having a mild dispute . ON Rose getting into Busters car as Buster holds the door for her , smiling . The COCA - COLA DELIVERY MAN is left on the sidewalk , disappointed .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. BUSTER'S CAR - DUSK</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose in the car eating barbecue with Buster . She is talking animatedly and he seems enchanted with her . It is dusk .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a car pulling up in the driveway of the Hillyer house . Rose gets out , waves goodbye to Buster . It is night . End MUSIC .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy in pajamas peering out of the bedroom window .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, she's back.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( O.S . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What time is it?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Quarter of twelve.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( O.S . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Is she all right?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't see any bruises or broken bones.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother in bed in the four poster .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Bruises and broken bones, what kind of thing is that to say?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy walks INTO THE SHOT , sits on the edge of the bed .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Why should n't she go out and have boyfriends?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No reason at all, darlin'.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I wish you'd stop criticizing and picking on her.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Forgive my crudity, darlin'. All I'm saying is that a girl who would wear clothes like that is going to get in trouble sooner or later.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( doubtfully . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, time will tell, wo n't it?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, darlin', time will tell.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Mother on the patio studying . It is a sunny afternoon . Mother looks up idly , looks back down at her notebook , then looks up again with a frown . CUT TO A POV SHOT of a SCRUFFY - LOOKING KAN as he darts behind one tree to another . The Scruffy - looking Man does not seem sinister , but he definitely is scruffy . ON Mother . Frowning , she puts down her notebook and rises , walks toward the door of the kitchen .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose washing dishes in the kitchen . As usual , she is in a cheerful good humor . We see Buddy at the kitchen table building a model airplane . Mother comes INTO THE SHOT , worried , frowning .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, that scruffy - looking man is out in the yard again.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( her smile fades . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mrs. Hillyer, I do n't know who he is, I really do n't.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I had better call Daddy.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOTEL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy behind the desk of a slightly run - down small hotel of the Depression era . He is handing a key to a guest .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Glad to have you with us, Mr. Watson. Make yourself at home. Shadrach, take Mr. Watson's bag.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A black bellboy takes the guest 's bag as Daddy turns to answer a BUZZING switchboard .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother talking on a phone .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Hello, honey? That scruffy - looking man is out in the yard again.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOTEL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy at the switchboard . Be is grim .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Luckily, Johnson just walked in to relieve me. I'll be right out there!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Rose in the kitchen .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you must know who the fellow is.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( innocently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, he might be that man who followed me home from the store the other day. But I do n't know who he is, Buddy, I really do n't.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - YARD</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Scruffy - looking Man . Be is half - crouched behind a big oak , peering at the Hillyer house . We hear the approach of a car and the man looks over his shoulder . CUT TO a shot of Daddy in the Model A . The TIRES SCREECH as he puts on the brakes . CUT TO a shot of the Scruffy - looking Man as he turns and runs . On Daddy as he jumps out of the car .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Come back here, sir! Come back here, you!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy runs after the man . CUT TO a shot of Daddy running after him . CUT TO A FINAL SHOT of the Scruffy - looking Man as he leaps a hedge in full stride .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOUSE - FRONT PORCH</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a worried - looking Mother on the front porch of the house . Buddy and a meek - looking Rose are in the background in the doorway . A weary , out - of - breath Daddy comes INTO THE SHOT and walks up the steps , straw hat in hand .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I could n't catch him. He ran like a deer.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy fixes a stern glance on Rose . As he does so , Mother and Buddy also turn and look at her . Rose smiles wanly .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't know him.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Mrs. Hillyer in her bedroom study . She is drinking a Coca - Cola and smoking a cigarette held by a bobbie pin . We hear the SOUND of an old - fashioned doorbell . She ignores it .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT PORCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a sullen - looking young boy on the front porch . He is poorly dressed . He rings the doorbell . This is BILLY .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother . Frowning , she gets up .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT PORCH</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Mother as she opens the front door . A sullen Billy stares at her .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes?</dialogue>
    <character>BILLY</character>
    <dialogue>Is Rose here?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She must have gone out for a walk with the children.</dialogue>
    <character>BILLY</character>
    <parenthetical>( sullenly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I got to see her.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She is n't here. And I'm sorry, but Mr. Hillyer does n't want her to have callers during working hours.</dialogue>
    <character>BILLY</character>
    <parenthetical>( sullenly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Where is she?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I said she is n't here. NOW you go home. Be a nice boy and go home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Gently but firmly , Mother shuts the door in Billy 's face . A SHOT of Billy frustrated on the front porch . Sadly , reluctantly , he turns and walks off the porch down the steps .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON mother , peering worriedly through the curtains of the front door .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of the family at dinner at night . Daddy , Mother , Rose , Buddy , Doll and Waski . The SHOT FAVORS Mother .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>That sulky boy was here again this afternoon. I was almost scared, he would n't go away.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( throws his napkin on table . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, my patience is wearing thin. First a scruffy man who runs like a deer and now a sulky boy who wont go away. This is getting to be a regular monkey and dog show.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I swear to God I do n't know who in the world he is. Really, I do n't, I do n't know no boy like that, I do n't.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Slowly , his face grim , Daddy returns his napkin to his lap and resumes eating . The children are very silent and look a trifle scared .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( finally , in a small voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, it is n't Rose's fault boys and men like her. You cant blame her for that, hon.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, I realize you do n't know this boy, but if you know anybody who does know him, if you have even a faint clue as to who he might be, then convey to him that he had better stay away from my house and stop scaring my wife. and I do n't mean maybe.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER SOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy in his room at night . He is dressed and at a study table listening with cheap earphones to a homemade crystal radio set . Enter a rather somber - faced Doll in her nightgown .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( listening . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Chattanooga. I had St. Louis, Missouri.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I'm worried about Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>So am I.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>She has n't got any sense. In some ways, she's awful dumb.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( takes off earphones , gives it a moment of grave consideration , then his opinion . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It is n't that she has n't got any sense, Doll. Her basic intelligence is probably above average, maybe quite a bit above average.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Then why does she act so dumb?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Dumbness does n't concern her, Doll. And neither does smartness. You see -</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy is interrupted by the SOUND of the distant angry shout of a man 's voice , evidently from somewhere outside in the woods because Buddy and Doll turn at once toward the window . In shock they listen .</scene_description>
    <character>FIRST MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>You son of a bitch, what are you doing here?!</dialogue>
    <character>SECOND MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>I'd like to ask you the same question, you bastard!</dialogue>
    <character>FIRST MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>I told you to stay away from her, goddamn you!</dialogue>
    <character>SECOND MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>You got no right to tell me to stay away from her, I knew her before you did!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, boy. Oh, boy, oh boy. Daddy is n't going to like this.</dialogue>
    <character>FIRST MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>She told you to leave her alone, did n't she?</dialogue>
    <character>SECOND MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>Like hell she did! You're the one she wants to get shed of!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Come on!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>He and Doll hurry from the room .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - UPSTAIRS HALL AND STAIRS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll running down the upstairs hall and down the stairs . The CAM M FOLLOWS them down the stairs .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BACK HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll as they slow down and creep cautiously down the back hall to the back porch . We hear the men yelling somewhere out in the dark bushes .</scene_description>
    <character>FIRST MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>You'll swallow teeth yourself if you do n't leave her alone, you ugly bastard! Go on, throw one, throw one!</dialogue>
    <character>SECOND MAN'S VOICE</character>
    <dialogue>I'll throw one, you son of a bitch!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>We hear a great CRASHING in the bushes , a SMACK of a fist , a GROAN of shock , an OATH , a SHOUT , more CRASHING .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. BACK PORCH - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot from the POV of the children , on Daddy on the back porch as the lights blaze on . He wears his bathrobe and has a big shotgun in his hands . Now he speaks in a loud , clear and very angry voice .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right, I have got a Parker shotgun here and it is loaded and the trigger is cocked and wherever you birds are and whatever you are doing you had better get the hell out of here goddamned quick!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A sudden total silence ensues , then a sudden CRASHING in the bushes as the `` birds '' take off .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And do not come back, you sons of bitches! Stay away from my house and home and my wife and children or I'll blow your goddamned heads off!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BACK HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll as they cower in awe in the downstairs hall . Daddy walks up to them carrying the shotgun . He is grim and furious , but his voice is surprisingly calm .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You children go to bed. And Brother, stay away from Rose, I'll speak to her in the morning.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - UPSTAIRS HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll in the upstairs hall . Doll meekly goes to her room . Buddy hesitates , looks at Rose 's door , glances nervously back at the stairs , then goes to Rose 's door , knocks softly , opens it .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Rose as he stands in the doorway of her room . Rose is sitting on the edge of her bed in her nightgown , a damp cloth held against her jaw which seems a little swollen . A look of fear and guilt is on her face .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( rather feebly , as if it explains something . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I got an awful toothache.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( quietly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, if you do n't keep your boyfriends away from the house, Daddy is going to fire you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( innocently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But I do n't know who they are.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy makes an exasperated grimace and exits , shutting door . The CAMERA REMAINS on Rose as she rolls her eyes upward in dismay .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the family at breakfast in the dining room . The silence is deafening . Everyone looks depressed except Daddy , who is aloofly calm . Rose 's head is bowed meekly over her plate as we hear the CLATTER of silverware . Finally , Daddy speaks in an almost pleasant tone .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, Rose, my sleep was a little disturbed last night, and so was Mrs. Hillyer's, and so was the children's. How about you? Was your sleep disturbed, too?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( solemnly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, Mr. Hillyer, it was. I. I heard strange voices in the night.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( softly strumming fingers , finally . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Strange voices, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( innocent as an angel . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( still aloofly polite . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Now Rose, stop behaving as if you're Bo Peep. Those men had a flight last night because of some female in this house, and it was n't Dolly or Mrs. Hillyer.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( very tense . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't think we ought to discuss this in front of the children.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( weeping , a hand over her eyes . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh. oh. oh! I think. maybe. one of'em. was Foster. but I do n't hardly know him!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, shut up, Rose. Shut your mouth and quit crying!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( draws herself up . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I will not sit here and listen to you be brutal to this poor girl.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I am not being brutal to her!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You certainly are! She has an awful toothache, look at her jaw, it's all swollen.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( trying to restrain himself , aloofly polite to the utmost . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Darlin', it is not my fault if the girl has epizootics -</dialogue>
    <scene_description>- The word means `` an animal epidemic , '' and it 's a pet word of Daddy 's ; he pronounces it epi - zoo - tics , not epi - zoo - ot tics , and uses it to mean any outrageous human malady -</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>- I am not responsible for her epizootics and I did not bring about her epizootics. Now listen to me. When I have to get up in the middle of the night and defend my home with a shotgun against a couple of damned scoundrels fistfighting in the bushes -</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Scoundrels? They were n't scoundrels, they were just boys.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Boys? You say to me boys?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes! Yes, I say that to you, they were boys! Boy friends of Rose, chat's what they were, and why should n't she have boy friends? Do you want her to be unnatural? Do n't you think she's human the same way you are yourself? It's the South, that's what it is, the South with its horrible traditions, of slavery and crime and the oppression of women, who are just as good as men and just as human!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( his eyes are a trifle glazed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Now darlin', what has the South got to do with this?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a real snit , afraid he will fire Rose . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And when I try to talk to you seriously, when I try to explain to you the unlimited creative power of life, how beautiful it would be if we gave up this hopeless struggle and simply loved each other from our hearts, what do you do - you mock me!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( mildly , his eyes are even more glazed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't intend to mock you, dear. I respect your philosophy. It's beyond my comprehension, but I respect it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( head bowed , weeping in a little handkerchief . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ohhh - hh, ohhh.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( exasperated . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, shut up, Rose, eat your cornflakes!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( piteously . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm not hungry.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The word is hongry , not hungry .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Now you listen to me, Rose -</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( with fire in her eyes . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Just a moment! You are not going to fire this girl for an innocent thing like having boy friends, not while there is breath in my body!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't intend to fire her, darlin'.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>It is n't her fault if she's popular. what?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I said I do n't intend to fire her. I just want to ask her to keep her boy friends away from my home and hearth, that's all.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( simmers down at once , now calmly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, that's very reasonable. Howe I hate to bring it up, but she's got an awful toothache, we've got to carry her to the dentist.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't want to go to the dentist.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Be quiet, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Darlin', I'll take a taxi to the hotel. You and Brother can handle the girl's epizootics. I'll just say one more thing.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( turns to Rose and , in a grave tone . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, I told you you had a friend in Mrs. Hillyer, did n't I, that she would fight for you like a tiger?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( meekly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right, thanks to her, and thanks to this case of epizootics, you are getting another chance.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( points a finger at her , and sternly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But do n't try my patience again. We have growing children in this house. Do you understand me?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DENTIST'S WAITING ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother , Rose and Buddy in a dentist 's waiting room . Rose is holding a rubber ice bag to her jaw , which is quite swollen . She is groaning and half weeping in pain .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Poor thing. Does the ice help, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Ohh - hh, a little. Oh - h, I ai n't never been to no dentist before. He's gon na kill me, I just know it.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>No, Rose, he'll help you.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , Rose shrinks in fear as , enter the dentist in a white coat , DR. WINTON , a kindly - looking , gray - haired man . We see a nurse behind him . He smiles in a reassuring manner .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>Nurse says we have a nervous patient. Now, young lady, be calm. First of all, let me tell you, I am not going to hurt you.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, you are.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>No, I am not.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Look, you ca n't kid me.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( rises , takes her by the hand . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Now, come on, Rose. Stop being so childish, come on.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DENTIST'S OFFICE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on Rose and Mother and Dr. Winton , as they guide and lead Rose into the dentist 's operating room . - She plants her feet and her eyes open wide with horror as she sees the chair and other equipment .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not goin' in there, I do n't like the looks of it!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( annoyed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, sit down in that chair and be quiet! We're trying to help you, you silly creature, sit in that chair!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( very reluctantly sits in chair . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh - hh, ohh - hh, Lord, he's gon na kill me.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>You and the boy wait outside.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DENTIST'S WAITING ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother and Buddy in the waiting room . Enter Dr. Winton with a little frown .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>Well, she finally let me look in her mouth. Is it true she's never been to a dentist?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She was raised on a poor dirt farm. I'm sure she's never seen a dentist or hardly even a doctor.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>Well, she has one mouth in ten thousand, I do n't see teeth like that once in ten years. Her trouble is an impacted wisdom tooth, but there is n't a cavity in her head, not a single one. She has perfect teeth.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>But the wisdom tooth will have to be pulled?</dialogue>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, and it's very bad. It probably should be done at the hospital under general anesthesia.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>That would scare her to death. She's terrified of hospitals. To her, a hospital is where you go to die.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. WINTON</character>
    <dialogue>I think you're right, it would be harder on her. But you'd better call Mr. Hillyer, she's going to need help to get home.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. COUNTRY ROAD - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy behind the wheel of the model - A. Rose lies pale and exhausted on Mother 's shoulder on the front seat . A trace of bloody gauze can be seen in her mouth and her eyes are closed . Buddy is on the back seat .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a whisper , muffled by the bloody gauze . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Never again, never again.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( with pity , gently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know it was bad, honey. I'm sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>No more dentists, no more dentists.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>It'll get better now.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model - A in the driveway of the Hillyer home . Mother helps Rose out of the car , but Rose ca n't stand on her feet . Daddy has to catch her from falling . Daddy picks her up in his arms and carries her up the steps as Buddy runs ahead to open the front door .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Mother and Daddy and Buddy on the patio . It is a beautiful sunny morning . Mother and Daddy are seated at an outdoor table about to have coffee . Daddy is opening mail and Buddy , in the b.g. , is gluing up a kite . Enter a smiling and healthy Rose with orange juice , toast , cups and coffee on a tray .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Good morning, Rose. And how do you feel today?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Wonderful. Except I can touch the place back there with my tongue, I would n't even know I had that tooth pulled.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( dryly , as he looks at mail . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I know it, I just got the bill for it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Boy, for four or five days there I did n't think I'd live. But I'm my old self again!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Umm. Well. Yes. But no more strange voices in the night, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, no, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose has learned her lesson, have n't you, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, ma'am.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOTEL - MEZZANINE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy peering down at an old pool table in the mezzanine of the family hotel . Buddy stands by with a pool stick in hand . In the b.g. , we see a black bellboy , SHADRACH , approaching .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I see my mother - in - law's face, son. Read'em and weep, boy, I am playing a spectacular combination, a triple. The nine ball in the corner!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( takes his stance with cue as Shadrach walks up . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Read'em and weep, boy, that's all she wrote.</dialogue>
    <character>SHADRACH</character>
    <dialogue>Mistah Hillyer, the Chief of Police wants you on the telephone.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( about to make his shot , looks around . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The Chief of Police?</dialogue>
    <character>SHADRACH</character>
    <dialogue>Yassuh.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy straightens up , sets his jaw , leans the cue against the table and marches toward the elevator as Buddy stares after him . The CAMERA STAYS on Buddy .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOTEL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy going down the hotel stairs . He holds onto the banister , sliding with his hands far ahead in order to take four and even five steps at a time - it is a childish trick , the point of the game is to touch as few stairs as possible . ANOTHER ANGLE , on Buddy as he jumps down the last remaining five steps and walks into the lobby . Daddy comes from behind the desk , grim .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose is in jail. She bit a policeman's thumb. Come on, son, Shadrach can run the hotel.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. MODEL-A - STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy in the Model - A. Daddy stares grimly ahead . Buddy steals a worried glance at him .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. LOCAL JAIL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot in the local jail . The shot is on Daddy as he stands before jail bars staring sternly into a cell . His hands are on his hips , his straw hat is on the back of his head and a bit to one side . Buddy stands beside him , a little bit behind , a worried look on his face . The CHIEF OF POLICE , a fat man , is on the other side of Daddy . CUT TO a POV shot of Rose in the cell . Her hair is mussed , her dress is torn . A little innocent , frightened smile is on her face . The CAMERA PANS to include Daddy and the Chief of Police .</scene_description>
    <character>CHIEF OF POLICE</character>
    <dialogue>That was a awful brawl down at the Busy Beaver, Mr. Hillyer. You know that fat Horton, the bootlegger?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, I know the son of a bitch.</dialogue>
    <character>CHIEF OF POLICE</character>
    <dialogue>Son of a bitch is right, he dern near killed a man. And this girl was the cause of it all. What's more, she bit a police officer's thumb right to the bone.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, Rose, what have you got to say for yourself?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( coughs , then feebly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I got an awful bad cold.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( nods slowly , then with aloof politeness . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's all you've got to say, you've got a bad cold?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( coughs again . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I do n't know what happened. They were arguin' about baseball, then all of'em started fightin'. As for that policeman, I did n't bite him, I do n't think I bit him.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>In dour silence , Daddy and the Chief of Police stare at Rose . She gives them a little smile , as if to say , `` See how innocent I am ? '' The Chief turns to Daddy and asks with dry irony :</scene_description>
    <character>CHIEF OF POLICE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, she's your girl, Mr. Hillyer. You want me to release her in your custody?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, not really. But I guess we'll have to do that, John. Let her out. Let the crazy creature out and I'll take her home.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL-A - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , Rose and Buddy in the Model A. Daddy stares grimly ahead , silent . Buddy looks solemn . Rose is badly frightened and still coughing . Finally she ventures a little smile and speaks to Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I got an awful cold, I think I'm sick.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy is silent , his eyes fixed ahead .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model A as it turns onto the Hillyer driveway .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , Rose and Buddy in the car . She tries again .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I did n't mean to bite him. He was hitting Horton with a blackjack in the meanest way and. and I bit him accidental.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( stops the car , turns to Rose . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I have to go back to the hotel. I'm on duty at the desk and who knows a quest might arrive. I will see you at suppertime, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a feeble smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I did n't mean to bite him, I really did n't.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I will see you at suppertime, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( feebly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, air.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT STEPS - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a shaky , slumped Rose going up the steps with Buddy as the Model A drives away . Rose is coughing , looks miserable .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Buddy and Doll in the living room of the Hillyer home at night . Doll is half - heartedly practicing scales on the piano and Buddy is pacing the floor , hands clasped behind him in something like the style of his father . As the CAMERA FOLLOWS Buddy in his pacing we see Waski playing with marbles on the floor .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( turns around on piano stool , to Buddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What is Rose going to do? Where can she go?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>They've been in there the longest kind of time. I ca n't stand it, I got ta find out what's going on.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>You better not snoop, Daddy'll kill you!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy coming with great furtiveness from the living room out into the front hall . Very cautiously , he tiptoes across the hall and bows down and listens at the door of his mother 's bedroom - study . He crouches down , peeps through the keyhole .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM/STUDY - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a `` keyhole shot '' of Daddy and Mother in the bedroom . Mother sits in her study chair , a handkerchief to her eyes . Daddy sits in a chair nearby . He looks depressed .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry, darlin', I hate it as much as you do.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( wanly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, she does seem to cause a lot of trouble, I admit. But she does n't mean any harm and it'll break the children's hearts, they all love her.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>It's because of the children she's got to go. I do n't want to be holier - than - thou, but the girl does n't have the same outlook we do. Morals do n't mean a thing to her, not a thing, and we ca n't have a girl like that in this house.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Who is to say our morals are better than hers?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( frowns , sighs . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But maybe you're right. She could. influence Dolly.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>That is exactly what I'm afraid of.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , and firmly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The girl has got to go, darlin'.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>But morals come from the heart, not from rigid rules and empty laws. And in her heart Rose has never hurt anyone and she never would. Therefore, she's not immoral. Not really.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Now look, darlin', this is no time to go off into the fourth dimension.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>But what I said is the simple truth. And now I see something else, I see more deeply into it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother has a slightly `` other - worldly '' look on her face . Daddy glances at the door of the bedroom , he suspects something .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Just a moment, darlin'.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy crouched at the keyhole . With great alacrity , he jumps up and hurries across the hall and shuts the living room door just as Daddy whisks open the bedroom door . Daddy grimaces .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Could of sworn that boy was out here.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy shuts the door and at once almost like the movement of a ballet Buddy opens the living room door and tiptoes back to the keyhole .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a Shot of Daddy and Mother . It is another `` keyhole shot . ''</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>How could Rose really be a bad influence on Dolly? She has a loving nature, you ought to want someone like that around your children. Why do you think those boys and men like her?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I have a pretty good idea.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>If you mean sex, you could n't be more wrong. Rose likes those boys and men, she has love in her heart, and that is what they want. It's the most rare and beautiful thing in life and that is why they follow her.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>They follow her because she's a -.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( he is about to say `` piece of tail , '' but interrupts himself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>- no, I wo n't say that.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What she does n't understand is that her behavior is disturbing to other people. She's young, she's got to learn to restrain the life force that's in her. Its creative, but in her case it's too creative.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Darlin', Rose has got to go!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( rises . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'll talk to her, I'll reason with her.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy in the hall . He jumps up and hurries across the hall into the living room . Again , as the living room door shuts the bedroom door opens . Mother starts up the stairs , her mouth determined .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Doll and Waski in the living room .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>What's happening?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Mother is struggling desperately. In fact she's fighting like a tiger. But I do n't know, it's close, it's mighty close.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then in a low tone , slightly wide - eyed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Buddy. does Rose really. `` do it'' with all those boys and men?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( aloofly , like Daddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Doll, do n't ask childish questions.</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <parenthetical>( indignantly , to Doll . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Of course not!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, Waski, you do n't even know what we're talking about.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - UPSTAIRS HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother going down the upstairs hall . She knocks on Roses door and enters .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother as she walks over and stares down in shock at Rose on the bad . Rose is lying back on a pillow and staring groggily at her , obviously not quite all there . Frowning with worry , Mother sits beside her and puts a hand on her forehead .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you're very sick. You're burning up. Rose, can you hear me? Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( semi - delirious . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What? Wha - at? Mrs. Hillyer?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER SOME - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of an ambulance pulling up outside the Hillyer house . Attendants get out of it carrying a stretcher .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy , Doll and Waski in the front hall . They are badly frightened , even terrified . The CAMERA PANS to show the ambulance attendants carrying Rose strapped in a stretcher down the stairs , as Mother helps and Daddy follows , both of them very worried . Rose is conscious now and her eyes roll with terror toward the children .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy! Dolly! They're takin' me to the hospital! Do n't let'em, do n't let'em!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA STAYS on the frightened silent children as they stare after Rose on the stretcher .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Mother , Daddy , Buddy , Doll and Waski in the corridor of a hospital . All look very solemn . A nurse leads them to a door and opens it .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOSPITAL ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a hospital room . A very pale , sick - looking Rose lies in a hospital bed . The nurse , mother , Daddy , Buddy , Doll and Waski enter , all of them looking very grave . ANOTHER ANGLE , CLOSE ON Rose as she weakly turns her head on the pillow . Her eyes well with tears as she recognizes the children .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a feeble whisper . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Pray for me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE , on the nurse as she speaks in a whisper we do n't hear to Mother and Daddy , obviously telling them they 'd better go . Daddy beckons to the children and they start to leave , all looking depressed .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DOCTOR'S OFFICE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of DR. F. ROBERT MARTINSON , a rather unpleasant man with a spade beard . He has a superior , patronizing way of talking and very little Southern accent if any . The scene is his office and he is in a swivel chair behind his desk . As he speaks the CAMERA PULLS BACK to show Daddy , Mother and the Hillyer children .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Well, Mrs. Hillyer, the girl is strong as an ox and that is what is keeping her alive. But not many people walk away from double pneumonia, Madam, not many.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She looks terrible, just awful.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Of course she does and I must say I'm puzzled by your delay in getting her to the hospital. I should think ordinary powers of observation would have suggested to you that she was seriously ill.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She hid it from us, Doctor. She's afraid of the hospital.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( a thin superior smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Afraid of the hospital?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Deathly afraid of it. Her people were poor tenant farmers and she does n't know anything about doctors or medicine or hospitals.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( frowns in open disbelief . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>A tenant farm? Are you trying to tell me that girl is a product of the hookworm and pellagra belt?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, her people were very poor. She says she was often hungry as a child, and I'm sure the food she ate was pretty awful, not a balanced diet at all.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Exactly, and that's why she could n't possibly have come from such a farm.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( icily polite . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Excuse me, sir, are you calling my wife a liar?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( embarrassed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Honey, please.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( a thin unpleasant smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It's simply that I find it incredible, Mr. Hillyer. Aside from the girl's illness at the moment, she is very strong, a very healthy specimen of a young human female - and a comely one, too. She must have gotten protein somewhere as a young child, if only sporadically.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>It is kind of amazing. The dentist says she has perfect teeth, there is n't a cavity in her mouth.</dialogue>
    <character>MR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( tries to make a supercilious joke . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Her entire mouth is a cavity, Madam, ha ha ha.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( dryly , does n't like the man a bit . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ha ha ha ha.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother frowns at Daddy and Dr. Martinson gives him an aloof glance .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( with spurious dignity . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>The point is you do n't grow up like that on a diet of sorghum and hominy grits. She got protein somewhere, she's a very strong girl and I think she'll live. despite the delay in medical treatment.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>That's all I want to know.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( rises . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Lets get out of here before I get the epizootics myself. Thank you, Doctor, for your discourse, it was fascinating, no doubt.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, thank you, Doctor.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( as they leave . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I beg your pardon, epi - zoo - tics? Do you mean `` epi - zoo - ot - tics,'' an animal epidemic?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( icily polite , from the door . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, I mean epizootics.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOSPITAL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother , Daddy , Buddy , Doll and Waski as Daddy comes out of the Doctor 's office and shuts the door .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I ca n't stand that polecat. They ought to hang him.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You do n't like him because he's a Yankee. He's a brilliant doctor.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>He's a polecat, dear.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HOSPITAL ELEVATOR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , Mother and the Hillyer children in a hospital elevator as a black elevator operator runs them down . Daddy has his hat politely removed and is staring pensively ahead .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rosebud looked pretty pitiful in that bed.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( sighs , shakes his head . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I hope she'll be all right, but I still think we ought to fire her.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't see how you can even think of it now.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy purses his lips but says nothing . It is obvious the `` epizootics '' have saved Rose , at least for the time being .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Rose in bed in her own bedroom . She is propped up on pillows and wearing a rather attractive pink silk housecoat of Mother 's . A tray is on her lap and she is eating her supper as Buddy sits on the edge of the bed talking with her , or rather listening to her . It is obvious she is well on the road back to health .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, he's so kind, so gentle inside, and so unhappy with that rich wife who does n't understand him, her being a Southerner and everything, and what a bedside manner he has got - so gentle and kind beneath the professor way he acts!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you are too uncritical of people.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You do n't know the bedside manner that man has got. Why, it does me good just to see him sit there all solemn and go pokin' in his bag like he's gon na cure me, which he did of course. And even more important he loves me, like a patient I mean, the other day he got tears in his eyes just listenin' to my heart beat.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>He did?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, he tried to hide it but I saw'em, and a little bit he says to me, `` You know, you are beautiful.'' Now was n't that a nice thing for a doctor to say to a patient, was n't it? What could cheer a girl up more?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, I have got doubts about that doctor and so does Daddy.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>He's got doubts about hisself and that's the saddest thing of all. Would you believe that poor man thinks nobody likes him?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, I'd believe it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I like him. I used to be afraid of doctors but not any more. Why, he could operate on me any old time and I would n't even be scared.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you are just entirely too uncritical of people.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I ai n't neither. Listen here, Buddy, besides all his vast medical knowledge, he has the most kindest heart beneath the professor way he acts - he wants justice in the world and he's got some real interestin' ideas.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT DOOR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Mother opening the front door . Dr. Martinson is there - with his black bag , an icy polite look on his face. ;</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, good evening, Doctor. Rose is a lot better, I just gave her her supper. She's almost all well now.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Let me be the judge of that, Madam.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Yes. Well. She's upstairs.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - DAY/NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Rose in Rose 's bedroom .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Justice, that's what he wants, justice for everybody and especially for niggers. And I think that's real nice of him because black people do n't have a very good life, you got to admit that, to be a nigger is sometimes practic ` ly fatal, but the wife do n't understand all of that, she thinks niggers are just so much dirt, which anybody ought to know better if they been on their ass their ownselves - and that is the cause of his profound unhappiness, Buddy, that no - good - mean wife with all her Southern prejudice against niggers and everything!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>It is a very long speech and delivered with a non - stop vitality that leaves Buddy a trifle groggy . Slowly , he shakes his head , as enter Mother .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>The Doctor is here. And Brother, supper is ready.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of the Hillyer family minus Rose eating dinner in the dining room . The meal is almost finished , Daddy cutting apple pie .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Is that Doctor still up there, Brother.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yeah, he's still up there.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>What's taking the rascal so long?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Honey, Dr. Martinson is n't a rascal, he's one of the finest physicians in Glenville. He studied at Johns Hopkins University.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't care where the polecat studied.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Sometimes the negativism and cynicism in you makes me want to vomit.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( shakes her head sadly as Buddy surreptitiously puts his napkin on table . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Your real trouble is that you're anti - intellectual. The irony is women are supposed to be emotional, but I never saw anybody who depended more on emotion and prejudice than you do.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a half audible murmur . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Excuse me, got ta go to bathroom.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Now I have a plan about Rose, an educational plan. She's getting better and we do n't want any more trouble -.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( notices Buddy slipping out . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Brother, you ought to hear this.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'll be right back.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA FOLLOWS Buddy as he slips out during following speech .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>First, those clothes she wears. They're too provocative. I've talked to her a lot about it and I think she understands.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy as he goes down the hall , eyes narrowed . ON Buddy posted in the doorway of the living room . He has his hands on his hips Daddy - style and is staring sternly up the stairs . CUT TO A POV SHOT of Dr. Martinson with his black bag in hand and shoulders hunched coming down the stairs . The man is slinking , has quilt written all over him . As he goes down the stairs he glances to one side , sees Buddy and frowns . The man gives a sudden nervous start of fright as we hear Daddy 's voice loud on the TRACK .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( O.S . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Everything all right, Doctor?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO A POV shot of Daddy at the rear of the downstairs hall , napkin in hand and hands on hips . He is staring sternly at the doctor . CUT BACK TO the Doctor . He glances nervously again toward Buddy . ANOTHER POV SHOT of Buddy . Looks just like Daddy , hands on hips . ON Dr. Martinson , as he looks back at Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, yes. Yes. Just fine. A few more days. a little more rest. she'll be perfectly healthy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Daddy as he walks forward down the hall toward Buddy . The CAMERA PICKS UP Buddy and both of them grimly stare after the fleeing doctor .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a low , conspiratorial tone . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What do you think, Brother?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't know. But you better watch him like a hawk, if he comes back again.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>He's not coming back again. We scared the rascal off, son.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( puts a hand on Buddy 's shoulder . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Come on back to supper. Your mother has a theory about how to educate Rose.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Mother and Rose and the children in the kitchen . We see a sewing machine and evidences of dressmaking . Rose has on a new and modest little dress that Mother evidently has made for her .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You see, Rose? Now that's the kind of dress you ought to wear.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( less than enthusiastic . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yeah, it's kinda nice.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You look very pretty in it, Rose. Really, you do.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( smiles at Mother . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, you're real sweet to make it for me.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( puts an arm around Mother 's shoulder . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>There never was nobody like you. And you do n't need to worry, I ai n't goin' out no more.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, there's no reason you should n't go out, Rose. in moderation.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a little shrug . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't want to. When I was lyin' there in that hospital bed at death's door I says to myself, I ai n't goin' out no more. If I ever get outta this, I'll just stay home.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose casually pulls the dress over her head and stands there in panties and bra , oblivious of Buddy and the children . She has about as much modesty as a small child herself .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <parenthetical>( rather sadly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Besides, there ai n't no Mr. Right out there. Or if there is I ca n't find him, all I find is a pile of Mr. Wrongs. I ai n't goin' out no more.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CHURCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Daddy , Mother , Rose , and the children all in their Sunday best going up the steps of a church . Rose looks virginal in the modest dress Mother made for her .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CHURCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A SHOT of Rose , Mother , Daddy and the children on a bench in church . We hear singing . Rose looks innocent , virginal as she sings . Mother gives her an approving look , exchanges glances with Daddy .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CHURCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Hillyer family coming out of church . We see them shaking hands with the Minister . Rose smiles sweetly , modestly .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the Model A driving up in the driveway of the Hillyer house . ANOTHER ANGLE on them all as they get out of the car . Rose takes Doll 's hand with one hand and Waski 's hand with the other .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>All right, we'll play monopoly then.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother , Daddy and Buddy watch Rose go up the steps with Doll and Waski .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She's like a different person. Being so sick made a big impression on her. I really think she's learned a lesson.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Um - hmm.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( waits as Mother goes on up steps , then turns to Buddy and in a low tone . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Come with me, Brother. I want to show you something.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE GARDEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy in a rose garden below the windows of the house . It is Hawkshaw the Detective and his Unwilling Assistant . Daddy solemnly points to dim marks in the flower bed .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>See that, son? Now this is a heel, see, and there, that's the ball of a foot. Someone has been walking here.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( reluctantly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, it's not very plain.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>That is because it rained recently, the rain has obscured the evidence. But you could still take plaster casts of these footprints, then match up the plaster casts with whosever shoes they are, and that way you could catch him - understand?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>But how would you find him?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well. Well, what I mean is, you could prove it was his shoes if you did catch him. But look this, Brother, it is even more interesting. Look at this mark here, and that mark over there. Now would n't you say those marks are the marks of a ladder?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I do n't know.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( trying to sound like a fellow detective , but does n't want Rose to get caught . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, I do n't know, Daddy, I think the rain has obscured it.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>True, but if you look sharply you can see that those marks are the marks of a ladder. Now let's go back to the garage and see if the ladder has been tampered with.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. GARAGE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy back in the garage . They are scrutinizing a wooden ladder that hangs on pegs alongside the garage . All Daddy needs is a cap and a pipe to be a dead ringer for Sherlock Holmes . He is in dead earnest about this , it is no Joke and he does not dream of being funny .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( points to ladder , eyes narrowed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>See, son? The paint is flaked off here, freshly. Look at it, Brother, there is no question about it. Some person or persons unknown have very recently tampered with this ladder.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well. maybe.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>And there's only one reason anybody would want this ladder - to get up into Rose's bedroom in the dark of night! I am going to chain up this ladder and padlock it! - and that is not all I am going to do!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy stares at him in apprehension .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the whole family at dinner including Rose . Daddy puts down his napkin .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>That was a delicious repast, Rose, as usual. Now I have something of grave import to say to you and to Mrs. Hillyer.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , points at Buddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And I do n't want you children snooping, do you hear me, Brother? Go up to your rooms.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - UPSTAIRS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy , Doll and Waski in the upstairs . They tiptoe along furtively .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - STAIRCASE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the children going down backstairs .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - CELLAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy leading Doll and Waski down the steps of the cellar . The CAMERA follows as they walk past an ancient coal - burning furnace and .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - CRAWL SPACE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>climb up into ' a crawl space beneath the front of the house . A shot of Buddy , Doll and Waski crawling along on dirt in the crawl space under the house . They come to a floor heat ventillator grill and stop . Buddy holds his fingers to his lips and listens intently .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy , Mother and Rose in Mother 's bedroom study . We see the grillwork of the heat ventillator in the floor . Daddy is at the climax of his speech .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>We all love you, Rose. Even more now, since you've bravely surmounted all these epizootics. We admire you, we esteem you, we hold your hand with love and affection, we have an investment in you - and I do n't mean money, although God knows we have that, too, considering those godawful hospital bills.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - CRAWL SPACE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot CLOSE on Buddy , Doll and Waski in the crawl space . Buddy is smiling in relief . He whispers to Doll and Waski .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>He's not going to fire her.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - MASTER BEDROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT BACK TO Daddy , Mother and Rose in the bedroom - study .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I mean a human investment, Rose, we care about you, you matter to us. But we have innocent and unformed children in this house and the monkey and dog show has got to stop. Do you hear me?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( meekly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( a bit overwhelmed by Daddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She has n't actually done anything.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( very firmly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Just a moment, dear.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( turns to Rose and almost sadly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We ca n't have it, Rose. Can you behave yourself - or not? That is the question, to behave or not to behave, to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous chastity and keep your skirt down or to hoist it in the light of the moon and make whoopee - that is the coil shuffling question.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( a dramatic pause , then points at her . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>If you ca n't behave I am going to fire you and I say it in front of you and Mrs. Hillyer and I mean it. I point my rigid finger right at your nose, Rose, and I stare unwaveringly into your big blue eyes and I tell you. this is a final warning. Do you hear me?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( very meekly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - CELLAR - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy , Doll and Waski as they climb from the crawl space down into the cellar by the furnace .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Well, if she's got any sense at all, she'll listen to that.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Sense does n't mean anything to Rose. But I think we're on safe ground now. Daddy chained up the ladder, whoever it is ca n't get in the house.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - BUDDY'S BEDROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Buddy sound asleep in his bed in the early gray dawn . As we DISSOLVE IN on the shot , we hear a loud BANGING and DADDY 'S VOICE .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( O.S . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Open that door! Open it up, open it this instant! Do you hear met open that door!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy sits quickly up in bed , at once pushes back the covers and gets out of the bed , hurriedly reaches for his khaki pants .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - UPSTAIRS HALL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy in the upstairs hall . He is fully dressed and is banging angrily on Rose 's door .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose! Rose! Open this goddamn door! Open it or I'll break it down!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Buddy as he hurries down the hall up to Daddy , in khaki pants and pulling a shirt over his head .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Open that door, damn you!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Daddy, what's the matter?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( glances around at him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She's got somebody in there, Brother! His shoes are on the back porch - there they were, naked and smiling at me!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( bangs on door . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, open this door immediately!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Daddy as he bangs on the door . We see a frightened Doll in her nightgown in the b.g. down the hall , a hand to her mouth . Daddy commences kicking at the door . ANOTHER ANGLE , CLOSE ON Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Open up, Rose! Procrastination wo n't help you!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Finally , the CLICK of a bolt and slowly the door opens . We see a wide - eyed , terrified Rose . She has a sheet around her and evidently nothing more .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <parenthetical>( he pushes past her . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right, where is he? Where's the culprit?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy in the bedroom . He yanks open the closet door , looks under the bed as he talks .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Where is he? I know he's in here, where is he, Rose? His shoes were on the back porch I smiling at met Where are you, you son of a bitch?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>In her distress and dismay , the sheet has come down over Rose 's shoulder and one of her breasts is exposed .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( feebly , she is terrified . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>There ai n't nobody here, Mr. Hillyer! Honest, there ai n't!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Where is he? Where have you got him hid?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( notices curtain blowing in wide open window . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ah, ha!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA follows Daddy as he strides angrily toward the window and leans out of it and stares down . Rose makes a little whimpering sound .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER SOME - GARDEN - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of the garden below as seen by Daddy from the window . We see lying on the ground BILLY , the Sulky Boy who scared Mother . He wears only undershorts and is groaning , holding his leg , which evidently he has injured in jumping from the window .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - ROSE'S BEDROOM - DAWN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>On Daddy , as he turns from the window to Rose .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>And who, Rose, may I ask, is that?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it's Billy.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>And what, may I ask, was Billy doing here?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a straight answer . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, Mr. Hillyer, Billy's very poor, he do n't have no money and there was n't no place else to go.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it was a silly question.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>He's a nice boy, you'd like him. He wants to be a fireman.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Ye gods and little fishes, a fireman. Put on some clothes, Rose, you're naked as a jay bird. When you're dressed, come on downstairs. I'm afraid your friend Billy is injured, where are his clothes?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( begins weeping , both breasts now are exposed . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Under the mattress. I hid'em so you would n't be mad. He wants to marry me, he loves me. I ca n't marry him, he's too young and has n't got no job, but he loves me. now you would n't hurt him, would you?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy gently pulls the sheet around her to cover her breasts .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I wo n't hurt him, honey.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy , Mother and Rose at the kitchen table drinking coffee in the early morning . Daddy looks grave , Mother looks sad , and Rose is crying into a handkerchief .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Mr. Hillyer, I know it was bad and I had n't ought to of done it. But I'm only a human girl and I. I ai n't always perfect. I promise I wo n't let him in the house no more, I promise. Wo n't you and Mrs. Hillyer forgive me?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, darlin', you break my heart. But I am only a human man myself of the father variety. Rose, pack your bag, baby, as of this moment you are hired, mired and fired.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - DINING ROOM - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the family at breakfast in the dining room . The dissolve suggests that some time has gone by . Daddy looks a bit grim , Rose has a wan and depressed expression . Mother looks worried .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( politely . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, Rose, going out to look for a job today?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( eyes down . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What's the use, there ai n't none.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Mmm. Would you get me another half a - cup of coffee, dear?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose rises and he watches her leave , then turns to Mother .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>It has been three weeks since I `` fired'' her. Is there no way to get rid of this girl? Are we stuck with her for life?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She ca n't get a job, it's a depression. And we ca n't just throw her out on the street.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>The hell we ca n't.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose returns with coffee and pours it out for Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you do n't look well and you have n't eaten a bit of breakfast.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not hungry. I ca n't eat nothin', I have n't been able to eat since I got fired. I think maybe I'm sick.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>God forbid. You're not sick, Rose, forget it. Do n't get any notions in your head, you're not sick.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, sir.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She does look a little peaky.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, she does n't, she's fine, fine. She's perfectly healthy, do n't give her ideas.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I'll do the dishes, then I'm goin' to lie down a minute and rest. My stomach hurts.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy watches Rose exit to the kitchen , then leans forward and speaks to Mother , his expression a bit sly .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Her plan is obvious, plain as day. She's going on a hunger strike. The question is, how do we foil her?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>She's just nervous and worried. And you would be, too, if you had no job and no place to go.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( thinking hard . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Something has got to be done or Rose is going to be in this house forever.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DRIVEWAY AND PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the Model A coming up the driveway of the Hillyer House . It is late afternoon . CUT TO a shot of Daddy getting out of the car . He has a triumphant little smile on his face . A shot of Daddy as he walks onto the patio , a rolled - up copy of the Glenville Tribune in his hand and his straw hat on the back of his head . He definitely has a triumphant expression . Buddy on the patio notices it .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the kitchen on Mother and Rose . Mother is helping a rather wan Rose prepare dinner . Enter Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( as if everyone will be pleased . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I have got news! I called long distance and spoke to Cousin Hop and you'll be glad to know, Rose, I have found you a job!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Tennessee?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, Tennessee, a lovely state!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well. What kinda job is it?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Ahh - hh, you'll like it. It's a fine, outdoor - type job.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You mean a farm?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, no, not exactly. It is n't a farm in the sense that it's a farm. Not at all. It's a. dairy establishment. You'll 1ike it! I'm sure you'll like it because it's so. peaceful!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose bows her head and begins crying .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Honey, Rose was born on a farm and has terrible memories of farm life. Now I do n't think -</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Just a minute, Rose, you do n't understand. This is n't a dirt farm like the one you were born on, it's nice. A neighbor of Cousin Hop's, I talked to him on the phone, a fine man. it's not a farm, damn it, it's a beautiful dairy establishment! Stop crying, Rose! Do you hear me? Stop crying, it's ideal!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't know how you can call it ideal - do n't you know what the word `` farm'' means to her?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't give a hoot in hell's hollow what it means to her! She ca n't stay in this house forever! I fired her, damn it!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>It sounds like a farm to me. Calling it a dairy establishment, that's just trickery and flummery.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Trickery and flummery or not, she's going there tomorrow on the bus! It's settled! And I must say we've been more than fair to you, Rose, it's pretty selfish and mean hearted of you to sit there and cry like that!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose sits head bowed at the kitchen table .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not cryin' because of me, I'm cryin' because of somebody else.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( stops in mid - air , so to speak . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy outside on the patio , listening intently at the window . He leans forward with a keen interest , eyes wide .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot CLOSE on Daddy . He is peering intently at Rose .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>What did you say, Rose?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CLOSE ON Rose , as she turns , weeping .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I was born on a farm myself. and I hate to think of the baby being born on one.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>On them all . Daddy and Mother stare in shock at Rose .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>What baby? What baby? What baby are you speaking about?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Mine.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Your baby?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, mine. I'm going to have one.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( he is `` poleaxed , '' staggered . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Good God almighty. This is a catastrophe, they wo n't hire her.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( looks up , sees Buddy in patio window . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Brother, get out of that window!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Buddy ducks down out of eight instantly . Both Mother and Daddy , however , are too preoccupied and upset to be concerned with him .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( stares off groggily into space . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>This is a total catastrastroke. As of this moment I am stumped, I admit, I am stumped and treed both, the hound dogs have me surrounded.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( as Rose begins crying . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Poor thing, do n't cry, Rose. I know you feel awful, but do n't cry, honey, nobody's perfect. Who's the father, dear?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I. I. I do n't know. maybe it was. but no, you ca n't be sure about a thing like that. It was n't Billy, I did n't know him.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know it's embarrassing. but who were you exposed to, dear? ROSE Well, now, Mrs. Hillyer, I. ah - h, that's kinda hard to say.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You're not going to get anywhere with that line of questioning. The problem is, what are we going to do?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>That's why I'm asking her who the father is. It's the most vital question of all. Who's the father, dear?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( offhand ; he is thinking hard about what to do . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She already told you, she does n't know.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( naively . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But she must know. unless. unless. Rose, was there more than one person?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( weeping in handkerchief . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh - h, Mrs. Hillyer, I. I ca n't think. I. I'm not really sure.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently , a tiny frown , a bit shocked . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose, really, you should n't act like that.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( weeping . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, I know. But I did n't, really. Honestly, I did n't. There was only one, but he's out of town and leave no forwardin' address.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a brilliant idea . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Ah, ha! Hold the phone! No forwarding address, huh?</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( turns to Mother . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>In the shock of this brilliant move, I forgot something.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What did you forget?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I forgot that Rose will lie like a child. She's no more pregnant than I am, she just does n't want to go to that farm!</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, I am.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, you're not.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, Mr. Hillyer, I am.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( triumphant , sure he 's right . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>All right, tell us, Rose, what makes you think you're pregnant?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( simply . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I have n't had my period for three months and my stomach is getting big.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( again `` poleaxed '' for a moment , but pulls himself together . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't believe it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>It's so, Mr. Hillyer.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>All right, damn it. We've seen you with your clothes off around here, stand up and pull up your dress and let's take a look!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Honey!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>She does n't have to take her panties off, we can see her stomach with'em on. All she has to do is pull up her dress and let us see her belly.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, all right, if you just wo n't believe me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose stands up .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose, you do n't have to.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't mind.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Now, you will see, she's lying like she always does - that belly will be flat as a pancake!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Rose lifts her dress and Daddy leans forward eagerly to confirm his belief . Rose stands there with her skirt lifted . She has on a pair of skimpy white panties . An unmistakable , definite protrusion can be seen in the area below her navel just above the line of her panties . A stupefied look is on Daddy 's face .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I'd say about three months. Are you satisfied?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I am poleaxed and in a non compos mentis condition. I wash my hands or the whole thing.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Doll walking up onto the patio with schoolbooks . The CAMERA follows her as she walks over to Buddy , who is crouched down eavesdropping at another window . She whispers to him .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>What's goin' on?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose says she's goin' to have a baby and she sure looks it, but I do n't think so.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>A baby. and she is n't even married.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>That's the least of her troubles. Rose had a rare tropic disease and the little tubes in her that babies swim down are all stopped up, she told me all about it.</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>If it is n't a baby. what is it?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DR. MARTINSON'S HOME OFFICE WAITING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Buddy and Rose in a rather elegant Doctor 's waiting room . It is night and they are alone on a small sofa . Buddy has a very solemn and worried look . Rose lies weeping in terror on his shoulder .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, Buddy, they're gon na cut me all up! They're gon na cut my stummick all open, I'll die!</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( trying to be brave . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You wo n't die, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, I'm scared, I'm scared!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DR. MARTINSON'S SOME OFFICE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Dr. Martinson 's private office in his home , quite a bit more luxurious than his office at the hospital . A sober - looking Mother and Daddy sit talking to him . He almost seems to relish the situation .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not surprised you thought she was pregnant. An ovarian cyst can look very much like pregnancy. But it was pure wishful thinking on her part. The girl can never have children, she had gonorrhea at fifteen and it was untreated.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( shocked , rather feebly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Gonorrhea?</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Do n't worry, Madam, she ca n't infect your dear little kiddies. She long ago fully recovered, but the disease did irreparable damage. The girl is permanently barren.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, that's pathetic. Poor Rose, what a life she has had.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>We make our own lives, Madam. As for malignancy, I do n't think so, it's very unlikely. I probably should n't have even mentioned that possibility to her.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( rather coldly , seems disenchanted with him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, you should n't have, it was needlessly cruel. She thinks she has cancer and is going to die.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>She's an adult, Mrs. Hillyer, I was merely giving her the facts.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it's a disaster. I do n't know what to say, Doctor, I am floored. How dangerous is the operation?</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Any major operation is dangerous. However, as we know from her previous illness, she's a very strong girl.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, if it is n't malignant and she can get through the operation all right, it might be better than her really being pregnant. She does n't even know who the father might have been.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, it's definitely better, beyond question. A fatherless child, an ignorant girl with no job, no money, no home. It's fortunate, a blessing really, and a stroke of good luck for another reason I want to mention to you.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( totally disenchanted with the Doctor . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>This conversation is making me a little sick.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Honey, that's no way to talk to the Doctor, he's merely doing his job, dear.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Oddly enough , in the stress of the situation , Daddy now seems almost friendly to Dr. Martinson , whom previously he considered a polecat .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DR. MARTINSON'S HOME OFFICE WAITING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy and Rose in the waiting room . He is helping her lie on the couch on pillows as she weeps , a hand over her face .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I got ta find out what they're saying. You lie back and rest, Rose, and I'll give you a report on it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't want to know.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. DR. MARTINSON'S HOME OFFICE - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a CLOSE shot of Dr. Martinson . An expression of distaste is on his face . The CAMERA pulls back as he talks to Mother and Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>I'm sorry the truth nauseates you, Mrs. Hillyer, because before you leave there's a bit more of it I'd like to put to you. This operation provides a therapeutic opportunity that I feel is quite important in regard to this particular girl, who suffers not only from an ovarian cyst but from a certain psychoneurotic condition as well.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What do you mean, what kind of gobbledygook talk is that?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Go ahead, Doctor, I think I am following you.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( gives Mother an aloof glance , then to Daddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>First, about the girl's history. Evidently she's been very promiscuous since early childhood, she has no control over her sexual impulses. Furthermore, she is permanently barren, she ca n't have children.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Go on, Doctor.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( quietly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, go on.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>I am thinking particularly of the other ovary. As a rule I do n't believe in removing it. The woman's hormonal system is profoundly disturbed, she is subject to possibly serious depression, she loses many of her secondary sexual characteristics for example, her breasts might shrink and become flabby, facial hair might appear along with a coarsening of the features, and of course her sexual drive is greatly diminished, especially in a girl or young woman. For these reasons I am opposed to removing the other ovary, as a rule. Do you follow me?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I am ahead of you.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Then. may I speak quite frankly with you, Mr. Hillyer?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Please do.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>I have of course observed the girl in treating her.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Of course.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>I think we both know her.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, we know her.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>What are you talking about? I do n't understand all this mumbo jumbo and the funny looks on your faces.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <dialogue>Mrs. Hillyer, this girl is sick in more ways than one. She is an extreme psychoneurotic with uncontrollable sexual impulses. It would be a mercy to spare her the suffering she causes herself and others. Therefore I recommend as a therapeutic measure the removal of her second ovary. It is ethically and medically the only proper decision in this case and I suspect your husband agrees with me.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Reluctantly, I do. It would be a blessing to her and everyone else. The girl is oversexed and I say - spay her!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( slowly rises to her feet and in a trembling voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Over. my. dead. body!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>A long , frozen pause as both Daddy and Dr. Martinson stare at Mother in surprise . She stares at the Doctor with fire in her eyes . He seems already to shrink a little . Finally she speaks with a calm fury .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Are you human beings or are you some kind of male monsters? Is there no limit to which you wo n't go to keep your illusions about yourselves?</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( shrinking a little . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Illusions, Madam?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>You'd go so far as to mutilate a helpless girl who has no means to defend herself, you'd go that far? Do n't you think I know what you've just said and do n't you think I understand the dreadful and revolting crime you've just conspired to commit?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Dr. Martinson stares at her in fear and shock , intimidated by the calm fury and ice - cold moral indignation . He opens his mouth as if to speak , but no sound comes out . Mother turns to Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I thought I knew you. I thought I knew you better, I thought in your heart you were a good and kind man. Well, I ca n't believe what I've just heard in this room. A defenseless girl depending on you for protection, and you propose to mutilate and destroy her. How could you listen even for a moment to that sadistic man?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( slightly shattered . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, now, darlin'. give me a chance to defend myself.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I ca n't believe you really meant it, if I did I'd want to die. You are n't a male monster, that man is but you are n't. Look me in the eye and tell me, do you really want to take Rose's womanhood away from her when it's all she has got?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I. I had n't thought about it that much. I was thinking. well, it's an idea, the girl is oversexed, and.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Rose is n't oversexed, that's ridiculous. If you're going to talk nonsense, I do n't want to talk to you at all. Rose is exactly the same as the rest of us, except more so.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, I know, more so. That's why I was thinking. maybe she'd be better off.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( with a quiet fury . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Better off? How could she ever find love and happiness, if you did what you're talking about? Are you insane?</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( rather feebly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Now, may I say, I am against that particular procedure, as a general rule. But in a case of near nymphomania, it does n't seem monstrous to me at all, but medically advisable.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Both Mother and Daddy totally ignore him . Mother 's eyes are fixed on Daddy and he is struggling with himself , staring down at the floor .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, now, I admit. in Rose's case, it would be cruel. If Rose was n't attractive and pretty. well, it would probably be bad for almost any young woman. I do n't know exactly what I was thinking about, the doctor said it and it sounded reasonable.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy finally looks up at Mother and admits his error like a man .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But you're right, darlin', you're absolutely dead right, it would be an awful and horrible thing to do. I'm sorry, honey, forgive me, I did n't mean it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother turns from Daddy and walks up to the desk and stares down at Dr. Martinson as if he is a loathesome bug upon which she intends to step .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I will not cry like a woman. If I'm upset it's because of what my husband said, not because of you. You ca n't make me cry like a woman, a woman has got just as much intelligence and self - control as a man. And you get this in your head. If you hurt that girl, I'll hire lawyers and sue you for malpractice for every penny you have got, I'll do my level best to ruin you. Do you understand me?</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( a sickly smile , he is licked totally . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, I understand you, but you have misunderstood me completely.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( icy cold . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I understand you perfectly. You leave that girl alone, you wretched man, or you will be sorry.</dialogue>
    <character>DR. MARTINSON</character>
    <parenthetical>( a foolish smile , as if Mother has paid him some kind of compliment . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Actually of course I wo n't operate, I do n't do major surgery. Dr. Hardy will operate and of course he'll be guided by your wishes in this respect.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Let him be guided not by my wishes and not by Rose's wishes, although I am sure they are identical. Let him be guided by the wishes of the creative power of life itself, because that is what has spoken through me tonight.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. STREET BY HOSPITAL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of the Model A parked on the street outside a hospital in a small Southern town . We see Daddy slowly pacing back and forth in front of the hospital entrance , his head bowed and his hands clasped behind him . ANOTHER ANGLE , CLOSER on the Model A. Buddy sits in the middle on the front seat , Mother is at the window . Doll and Waski are on the back seat . They all are staring with pale worry at the pacing Daddy fifty feet away . All are frightened , Mother is very pale . Doll has a tiny handkerchief to her eyes and is half crying . Even Waski is very scared .</scene_description>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <parenthetical>( seems on verge of tears . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mother. is Rose going to die?</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a trembly voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, Waski, she wo n't die, because we are praying for her.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy from the POV of the car . He looks at his wristwatch , frowns and walks into the entrance of the hospital . ANOTHER ANGLE , on them all in the car . They wait , pale and silent . Doll sniffles in her handkerchief .</scene_description>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <dialogue>Why is it taking so long?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Here comes Daddy.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a POV shot of Daddy as he slowly walks up to the car , his straw hat in his hand . CUT TO a shot of Mother CLOSE on her face as she stares at her husband as if trying to read the news on his face . A tiny frown comes on her forehead as icy fear comes in her eyes . ANOTHER ANGLE , CLOSE on Daddy as he walks up to the window of the car , hat in hand . A trace of tears can be seen in his eyes , but when he speaks his voice is calm .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( philosophically . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I thought I'd seen the limit, but these are the most great, gaga epizootics she's ever had.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Daddy and them all . In pale fear , mother stares at him , uncertain what has happened .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>How is she?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Fine.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>As mother sighs in heartfelt relief .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy sitting with mother at the kitchen table . Bright cheerful sunshine comes in the window that opens on the patio . Rose comes into the SHOT carrying a coffee pot , a sunny smile on her face .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You're looking very chipper this morning, Rose. Sow do you feel?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Perfect, wonderful, good as I ever felt! Except for a big old scar on my stummick, I would n't even know I been in the hospital.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( with mild irony , as she pours him coffee . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, we know you were there. The bill that hospital sent was absolutely horrendous.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( her smile fades a trifle . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, I'll pay you that back sometime, Mr. Hillyer.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Do n't worry about it, honey.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy pauses , seems to be struggling with himself , he is frowning .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Rose. I hate to be mean, but.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( another pause , then a little shrug . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, nevermind, forget it.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( in a little sad voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What was it, Mr. Hillyer?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( rises . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Nothing, Rose.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy stops beside her , puts an arm around her shoulders and with weary irony .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>We all love you, darlin'.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy wearily picks up his straw hat from the kitchen counter and walks out of the kitchen on the patio , as the CAMERA stays on Rose and mother .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Do n't worry, honey, you'll find something.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>I was offered that job as a waitress.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Forget about it, I do n't want you working in one of those honky tonks.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Buddy on the patio . He has eight or nine gourds on an outdoor table and is cutting round holes in them and emptying out the seed . He glances up as Rose walks up to him , pocketbook in hand . She seems a little sad . But she smiles at him .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Hi, Buddy.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( puts an arm around his shoulders . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>How's my sweetheart who never told on me when I was bad?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Okay.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( picks up a hollowed out gourd . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Makin' homes for purple martins, huh? We had'em on the farm. They're the prettiest things. That's what I wish I was, a bird. Just fly around catch bugs and have a lot of fun.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>What are you going to do, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Take a little walk with me, huh?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - GARDEN</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose and Buddy on a beautiful summer day walking in the garden behind the Hillyer house . They walk up to an empty rabbit hutch . The hutch is made of rough lumber and chicken wire and has cubicles for about a dozen rabbits .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( as she stares at the empty hutch . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I guess I'll work as a waitress, Buddy. I done that before and it got me in worse trouble than you could know, but I ca n't stay here no more. Why did you get rid of your rabbits, Buddy?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>They're dumb things. I got tired of them.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( smiles , touches chicken wire . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Did you know when I was a child we had pretty near five hundred rabbits?</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Five hundred rabbits?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Yep, we had'em in orange crates all over. It was Daddy's dream. He was goin' to get rich raisin' rabbits. It was what killed Daddy. He did n't drown hisself till a long time later after Momma and Lunette died of typhoid, but it was them rabbits what killed him.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>How did the rabbits kill him?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>He thought he could sell'em, but nobody but country folks eat rabbits, Buddy, and they ai n't got no money. We had to eat them dern rabbits our own selves. Every dern one, and it took about four years to eat'em all up.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( a little smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, that doctor said you got protein somewhere and I guess he was right.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Boy did I get sick of rabbit. But later on after Momma died and Daddy was n't doin' nothin' but drinkin', I sure would of been glad for a little rabbit stew. You know, I ought n't to of told you about what Daddy done when I was a child. Until them rabbits ruined him, he was a real good man, Buddy.</dialogue>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>What was your mother like?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>A saint just like your own mother. She's up in heaven right now, her and Lunette, there ai n't no doubt about it.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE as Buddy and Rose walk away hand in hand away from the rabbit hutch .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>Maybe it was eating all those rabbits that made you sexy, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>Buddy, sex do n't mean a thing to me. It ai n't nothin' but a mosquito bite.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( stops , smiles , puts an arm around his shoulders . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'll tell you a secret. Girls do n't want sex, Buddy, girls want love.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM NIGHT A shot of Mother and Daddy in the Hillyer living room late at night . Mother sits with a worried expression on a chair , a kimono around her shoulders . Daddy is pacing worriedly in pajamas and a bathrobe . He looks at his wristwatch .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>It's twenty after one.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>I do n't understand it. Even in the wild days she was never as late as this.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I'm afraid it's my fault. I made her feel guilty this morning -.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( glances around , sees something in doorway . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Brother, what are you doing up?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Buddy in pajamas as he enters the living room .</scene_description>
    <character>BUDDY</character>
    <dialogue>I heard you talking. Has n't Rose come in?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, she has n't.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( frowns , looks around . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I think I hear a car.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DRIVEWAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of a 1930 's automobile in the Hillyer driveway at night as it drives up and stops before the front steps . ANOTHER ANGLE , CLOSE on Rose and Dave Wilkie in the car . Here DAVE is much YOUNGER , of course , and a rather handsome man in a stolid way . Even though he is younger than when we saw him on the plane , he is quite a bit older than Rose . Rose 's eyes are opened wide , she is a bit breathless , obviously something important has happened . Dave stares at her as if fascinated , almost as if awed .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE</character>
    <parenthetical>( rather stiffly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I want to thank you for a wonderful afternoon and evenin'. Can I see you in the mornin'?</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a bit breathless . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes. Year you can, you sure can.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy peering out of the window of the living room .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Why, that looks like Dave Wilkie,</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Who?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>You know Dave, his wife used to do dressmaking for you before she died.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT STEPS - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Rose on the steps . Happy as a clam , she turns and waves at Dave in the car , then goes on up the steps .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the front hall as Rose comes through the front door . She is very excited , happy .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - LIVING ROOM - NIGHT</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA follows her as she goes into the living room with her big news .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>You'll never guess what happened!</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , then dramatically . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I have met Mr. Right! I been with him all day and he loves me, I know he does, he loves me and he's going to marry met Be's practi ` cly ast me already!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well. well, that's wonderful, Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>And who do you suppose he is? That policeman who arrested me, the one I bit! He is Mr. Right!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. CHURCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>VARIOUS SHOTS of a wedding in a tiny country church . We see shots of Rose in a white wedding dress , smiling , happy . Dave is stiff and solemn in his best suit . Daddy gravely gives Rose away . We hear no dialogue here , MUSIC on track . We see Mother , Buddy , Doll and Waski in the front row , all in Sunday best and very solemn . We see a CLOSE SHOT of Rose 's knees trembling beneath her white wedding dress as a country minister marries them . VARIOUS SHOTS of a rather idyllic country wedding in a very plain , unpretentious country church , and .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CHURCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Rose , Dave , Buddy , Doll and Waski at a picnic celebration outside the church by a running brook . The scene should be beautiful in summertime . We see a barbecue pit , homemade ice cream in the metal can , other picnic things . A happy Rose is kissing first Buddy , then Doll , then Waski . Dave smiles fondly , but rather stiffly at her .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <dialogue>And now Waski, are you and Buddy and Dolly ready for some ice cream, huh? Do you like picnics or do n't you?</dialogue>
    <character>WASKI</character>
    <dialogue>We like'em! We love'em!</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, it is n't a picnic, honey. It's a barbecue.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( a little smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Okay.</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE</character>
    <dialogue>A picnic does n't involve roast meat, hon. At a barbecue you have a lot of roast meat.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot CLOSE on Buddy as he stares pensively at Dave . The CAMERA stays on him as we hear VOICES OVER . Rose is happy , Dave phlegmatic .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( V.O . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, all I know is there's ice cream. And I'm gon na have me a plate right now!</dialogue>
    <character>DAVE</character>
    <parenthetical>( V.O . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Better wait, hon. It'll spoil your appetite. Have some barbecue first.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>The CAMERA stays on Buddy , as he stares pensively at Dave . He has no expression on his face at all .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CHURCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Rose and Dave bidding goodbye to the Hillyers . Daddy , Mother , Buddy , Doll and Waski are in the model A. Rose is obviously on the verge of tears as Dave speaks solemnly to Daddy .</scene_description>
    <character>DAVE</character>
    <dialogue>Well, we are off to Savannah, Mr. Hillyer. No more police work, I'm getting in the construction field.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Good luck, Dave. And good luck to you, too, Rosebud.</dialogue>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( begins crying . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Oh, Mr. Hillyer! I just ca n't stand to say goodbye!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy starts the Model A.</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I love you all! Goodbye, Buddy! Goodbye, Dolly! Goodbye, Waski!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Rose as she weeps and waves the handkerchief .</scene_description>
    <character>ROSE</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Goodbye! Goodbye!</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. MODEL A - STREET - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>A shot of Daddy and Mother in the Model A as Daddy drives . We see Doll and Waski solemn on the back seat , but Buddy is not visible .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, thank God we are rid of her at last. And the best thing of all is that she's happy. The little nut is happy, she found Mr. Right in the nick of time!</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, yes, she's happy. Of course Dave does n't have her life force, not at all. There is n't much furniture in his house, just a table and one or two chairs, whereas Rose has furniture coming out of the windows.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Honey, he is Mr. Right.</dialogue>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( slowly nods . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yes, I think so. He adores her, it's almost pitiful the way he worships her. I just hope she is n't too much for him.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother pauses , frowning , she has her doubts , looks over her shoulder .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What do you think, Brother?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Mother frowns in surprise . CUT TO a POV shot of Buddy on the back seat of the car . Now it is clear why we could n't see him in the other shot . Be is lying down on the seat of the car with his Sunday coat pulled over his head . ANOTHER ANGLE on Mother and Buddy , Doll , Waski . Buddy lies on the seat , motionless with his coat over his head .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>What's the matter with him?</dialogue>
    <character>DOLL</character>
    <parenthetical>( seems awed , staring down at Buddy . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I do n't know. I think he's cryin'!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO ANOTHER ANGLE on Mother , from the front as she slowly turns back and stares thoughtfully ahead . The shot is also on Daddy . They both stare ahead in pensive silence . Finally Mother speaks .</scene_description>
    <character>MOTHER</character>
    <parenthetical>( rather sadly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Maybe Brother is right. Maybe so.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>END OF FLASHBACK</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT./EXT. HERTZ CAR ON INTERSTATE - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Willcox Hillyer behind the wheel of the Hertz car . He is staring pensively ahead , a faint trace of tears in his eyes . It is a very faint trace , a look of mild irony and amusement is on his face .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( dryly , to himself . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Mr. Right. Dave Wilkie.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox slowly shakes his head .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HERTZ CAR - INTERSTATE EXIT - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the red Ford as it takes a turn - off from an Interstate .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HERTZ CAR - BUSTLING CITY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the red Ford as it drives into a rather bustling little Southern city that does not look at all like the `` Glenville '' we have seen . A lot of traffic , new roads , filling stations , prosperity . It could be Rome , Georgia as it is today .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. CAR PAST HOLIDAY INN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER SHOT of the red Ford going past a modern Holiday Inn in the city .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - DRIVEWAY - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON the red Ford as it turns into a familiar driveway , that of the old Hillyer home . But insofar as possible it looks different now , like a relic from the past . Maybe the house needs painting , the garden is in weeds - the place is not exactly dilapidated , but it is marked by time . A SHOT of Willcox Hillyer as he gets out of the red Ford and walks up the familiar steps of the front porch , travel bag in hand .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT PORCH - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>ON Willcox Hillyer at the front door . He tries the knob , opens the door and goes inside .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - FRONT HALL - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Willcox Hillyer as he glances into the living room . The room looks the same but different - it is musty , dim . Willcox Hillyer stares at it as if haunted a bit , turns and the CAMERA follows him as he crosses the hall and looks into Mother 's old bedroom - study . This room is quite different . The four poster is gone . The room is dusty , musty , dark . Magazines are on the floor in a ring around Mother 's old study chair . We see `` male '' things . It is apparent Daddy lives alone in this room . A SHOT of Willcox Hillyer as he walks down the familiar hall back to the kitchen .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>He looks around . No one is there . He glances at a modern refrigerator that is in pretty poor shape , glances with a frown at dishes in the sink unwashed . He goes on out to the patio .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy putting out seed for birds on a table on the patio . Daddy now is a very old man , but his personality and style are the same as ever . He looks up with a stern frown as Willcox Hillyer comes out on the patio .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Well, you rascal, where'd you come from?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Hello, Daddy. How are you?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>About as good as can be expected with one foot in the grave. Good to see you, son.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( they shake hands . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Did you bring any of that Yankee whisky with you?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>It is n't Yankee whisky, Daddy, it's Scotch.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>It's Yankee whisky to me.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy takes him by the arm , leads him back into the kitchen .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>How do you stand it up there, boy, in all that ice and snow? What are you, a polar bear?</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME - KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Willcox Hillyer and Daddy as they enter the kitchen . The former opens his travel bag and takes out a bottle of Teacher 's .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>I can use a drink after the plane ride I had.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Your wife and children are back in New Hampshire in the snow?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( a little smile ; it is summer , there could n't be snow in New Hampshire . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yeah, they're in the snow.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox opens whisky , looks for glasses in the dusty familiar cupboard .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Are they polar bears, too?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( frowns at cupboard . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Good God, the way you live here. This place has n't been dusted since Mother died. Look at that goddamned refrigerator.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Got another twenty years in it, boy.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( something seems to be bothering him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>By the way, son, do you recall Rose, that pretty blonde girl who came to our house way back in 1935 or 1936 and caused such a damnable commotion.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( frowns , turns and stares at him . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Of course I recall Rose. In fact I've been thinking of no one else for the last hour and a half.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>How could that be, son?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Dave Wilkie of all people was sitting by me on the plane - her first husband. It's funny you would mention Rose. Did you hear from her?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox pours out whisky .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( casually . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Well, yes, in a manner of speaking. You'll have the back bedroom, son, Mother's old art room. Just be careful going down the stairs you do n't break your Yankee neck.</dialogue>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>EXT. HILLYER HOME - PATIO - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Willcox Hillyer and Daddy as they walk with their drinks out to the patio .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>What's all this about Rose? What do you mean, you heard from her in a manner of speaking?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, I heard from her, I got a letter from her, she's fine. But there is some sad news.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>What sad news? Did her cancer come back?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Oh, no, no, she got all over that. Rose is fine. Let's sit down, son.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Is her husband sick or something?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>No, it's another thing. I was going to write you about it, but since you were coming down anyway I thought I'd wait till you got here. What did Dave Wilkie have to say?</dialogue>
    <scene_description>ANOTHER ANGLE on Willcox Hillyer and the aged Daddy as they sit on the patio sipping whisky . Willcox Hillyer is not disturbed or worried about Rose , Daddy has been very casual and offhand about it and he has no inkling of what the news really is .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>The pitiful son of a bitch said Rose was a nymphomaniac.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Um - hmm, and I suppose that incensed you?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>You're damn right it incensed me, the miserable bastard. He also said the kikes and the niggers have taken over Washington. D.C.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( nods somberly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Yeah, I know, he was up here. It's pitiful like you say. When he lost Rose it ruined the man, it destroyed him totally when he lost Rose.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>He did n't lose her, he threw her away.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Yes, I guess he did. He threw her away and it was the mistake of his life.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( staring off pensively into space . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>You know, I do n't know this town any more. All this traffic, new buildings, prosperity.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( pauses , almost as if in pain . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Where have the years gone, Daddy? Where is the little town I knew as a boy?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>At rest in the creative universe with Mother, son.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( a little smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>That's what she would say herself.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( simply , he is not emoting . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>A wonderful woman, boy.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>It always gives me a funny feeling to come home. Dear old Southland. Gone. It's all gone, Daddy -.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( a fond little smile . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>- except you, you're still here.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( matter - of - factly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Not for long, boy. I've outstayed my welcome already.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>It's funny you would mention Rose, I was thinking about her all the way up in the car.</dialogue>
    <parenthetical>( gives him a glance . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Or maybe it is n't so funny.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( as if in previous thought . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I'm older than hell, boy. But this Yankee whisky is mighty fine, I'll say that.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>All right, Daddy. We have our drink, we're out on the patio, you have prepared me for it. Rose's cancer has come back, has n't it?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( simply , quietly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>No, son, she is dead.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( numb with shock , for a moment ca n't speak or think . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Dead, Rose is dead? You mean. she died?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>I am afraid so, son. About a week ago. Her husband phoned me, she had asked him to call me if anything happened.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( in awful shock . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>But. but how? She was young! Rose was n't old!</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>She was fifty - six, son. Of course she did n't look it, nowhere near it. The cancer came back, I'm afraid I fibbed about that. But it was very quick, son. She was in the hospital only two weeks, and the last week she did n't know anything.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <parenthetical>( in distress , a slightly choked voice . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Excuse me, I'll be right back.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Willcox Hillyer rises with his drink in hand and walks across the patio to the kitchen door .</scene_description>
  </scene>
  <scene>
    <stage_direction>INT. HILLYER HOME KITCHEN - DAY</stage_direction>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Willcox Hillyer as he goes into the kitchen . He picks up the whisky bottle and pours himself a very large drink . ANOTHER ANGLE , CLOSE on Willcox Hillyer as he stares across the kitchen lost in thought . BLUR - BORDERED SHOT OF ROSE in the kitchen , a sunny smile on her face as she pours coffee for Daddy . A very quick moment , only a few seconds . A CLOSE SHOT OF WILLCOX HILLYER in the kitchen , drink in hand , a look of grief on his face . He struggles to control himself , puts a hand over his eyes , then pulls himself together , turns from the kitchen . SHOT OF THE PATIO ON Willcox Hillyer and Daddy as the former walks up with his refreshed drink and sits down . He is in control now , his face is expressionless and he is seemingly calm .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Well, you have knocked me for a hell of a loop, old man. A hell of a loop.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( simply . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>I know. You loved her. So did I. It was an awful shock to me, too. An awful shock. Rose was so alive it's hard to believe.</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>I ca n't believe it, Daddy. I know it must be true, but I ca n't believe it.</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>It's true, son. The girl with the cornflower eyes is dead, she is no more,</dialogue>
    <scene_description>Daddy pauses , in trouble emotionally , but gets a grip on himself and in an almost dispassionate manner ; but powerful feeling is behind his words .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>She got cancer of the breast, was operated on and had a seven - year recovery, then after a brief illness passed on in her sleep, as the man with whom she'd lived in beautiful love and harmony for twenty - five years held her hand. That is what happened, son, and God rest her lovely soul!</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a CLOSE SHOT of Willcox Hillyer . Despite his efforts to control himself , tears are in his eyes . He clenches his teeth , takes a big swallow of his drink . ANOTHER ANGLE on them both as Daddy rises .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( CONT 'D . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>And now, if you are through with that Yankee whisky, we'll go to the Holiday Inn and get some dinner.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>SHOT OF WILLCOX HILLYER AND DADDY as they walk toward the red rental Ford . Daddy uses a cane . He is a very old man . Willcox Hillyer looks in pain , he grimaces as they walk along .</scene_description>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>Why Rose? Why Rose, Daddy?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <dialogue>Nobody lives forever, boy. Who'd want to?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>That's a hell of a thing to say. Why, Rose?</dialogue>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( stops and firmly . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Now look, boy, get a grip on yourself. Rose had a good life. She found her. Right, did n't she? She triumphed over everything, what are you blubbering about?</dialogue>
    <character>WILLCOX HILLYER</character>
    <dialogue>I'm not blubbering.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of the red Ford going down the familiar driveway . SHOT ON DADDY AND WILLCOX HILLYER in the car . Daddy is staring fiercely ahead , Willcox Hillyer stares ahead in gloom . SHOT OF THE RED FORD as it pulls up in front of the Holiday Inn we have already seen . SHOT ON DADDY AND WILLCOX HILLYER in the car . Willcox Hillyer sits there staring off into space in deep gloom . Daddy eyes him and now relents . We see sympathy in his face .</scene_description>
    <character>DADDY</character>
    <parenthetical>( gently . )</parenthetical>
    <dialogue>Rose is n't dead, son. Not really. Some of us die, but some of us do n't. Rose lives. As long as some little girl somewhere gets herself up and goes out, Rose lives.</dialogue>
    <scene_description>CUT TO a shot of Daddy and Buddy , now middle - aged Willcox Hillyer , as they walk toward the entrance of the Holiday Inn . MUSIC . THE END</scene_description>
  </scene>
</script>

Summary: In 1971, a grown Buddy returns to his former family home and reflects back on his youth during The Great Depression when Rose came to live with his family in order to escape her miserable life in Birmingham where she was being forced into prostitution. The Hillyers are an eccentric family who take Rose in as a domestic servant. Rose quickly begins to admire Mrs. Hillyer who is working on her master's thesis and who she learns was orphaned at a young age, just as Rose had been. Rose also develops a crush on the paternal and warm Mr. Hillyer that the three Hillyer children and Mr. Hillyer become aware of while Mrs. Hillyer remains oblivious. Eventually Rose kisses Mr. Hillyer who at first responds to her advances and then becomes angered at her and rebuffs her. Buddy witnesses Rose and Mr. Hillyer kissing and later, when Rose gets into his bed to talk to him at night, he repeatedly tries and eventually is allowed to grab and massage her breast just as his father had done while he was kissing Rose. Eventually to satisfy his curiosity Rose allows 13 year old Buddy to masturbate her. Afterwards she is apologetic and upset and begs him not to tell anyone. The Hillyers begin to disagree about Rose's presence in their lives. Mr. Hillyer worries that Rose is too promiscuous when she goes to town and will cause them problems but Mrs. Hillyer sees her promiscuity as her way of trying to obtain love and attention. Strange men begin lurking around the house and even fighting with one another. Mr. Hillyer attributes this to Rose but she repeatedly denies knowing them before eventually admitting it. However, Rose is eventually arrested when some of her men begin brawling in a bar over her and she bites the finger of a policeman. Though the police and Mrs. Hillyer are willing to forgive Rose, Mr. Hillyer insists on firing her, but before he can Rose is hospitalized with a bad case of pneumonia. The attending doctor tells them that Rose has too strong a basic constitution to have had the desperately poor country background she has asserted. She develops a passion for the doctor, who spends a rather long time in her bedroom in his visits to her during her convalescence. After she recovers, Rose seems to be on her best behaviour but Mr. Hillyer eventually catches her with another man in her room. He fires her but obtains a position on a dairy farm in Tennessee for her. When he informs Rose she begins crying as she does not want her baby being born on a farm. Mr. Hillyer believes she is lying about being pregnant and the Hillyers take her to a doctor where they learn that while she is showing signs of being pregnant she actually has an ovarian cyst and is sterile because of untreated gonorrhea contracted when she was 15. The doctor recommends a radical full hysterectomy, involving the removal of the womb and both ovaries, potentially resulting in a less feminine appearance and reduced sexual drive, as it would reduce Rose's promiscuous behaviour. While Mr. Hillyer at first agrees to the operation Mrs. Hillyer argues against it and eventually persuades the two men. Rose is treated for her cyst and returns home where she eventually marries the policeman whose finger she bit. Returning to the 1971 reflection, Buddy reveals that Rose married three more times and was eventually happy with and faithful to her last husband with whom she lived for 25 years. He goes to talk to his father who tells him that Rose died the previous week. When Buddy begins crying Mr. Hillyer tells him that Rose is a person who will never really die as she will live on forever in their hearts.