Marie: (suddenly looking off to one side) Don't look now, but here come the Whitneys.

Rose: (looking around in the same general direction) Where?

Marie: (turning to Rose and elbowing her) I said to not look!

Rose: Why not? You're looking!

Marie: Well, if we both look, you'll draw attention to us!

Rose: (suddenly looks down at her feet instead of looking natural) Oh, we don't want to do that. (slight pause) Well, did she bring it?

Marie: I can't tell. Mr. Whitney has a basket. But there's some lady with red hair in front of Mrs. Whitney… (slightly pushing Rose aside as she tries to see better) Say! Do you think it's ginger?

Rose: (looking up) Ginger Beckworth? No, she has blonde hair!

Marie: Not the red-haired lady - I meant, do you think it's ginger - (thoughtful pause) No… It can't be ginger. Then it'd taste like - like…

Rose: Licorice?

Marie: No, silly - like gingersnaps! Hey, wait - I think she has… yes, she's got a pie. We'll just have to get a piece of it this time.

Rose: How can we? It's always gone before we ever get through the food line.

Rose: Well, I guess we could-

Marie: (interrupting) Hush, here comes Mr. Whitney - act natural!

Mr. Whitney: Well, good day, ladies. Nice day for a picnic, isn't it?

Rose: Yes, lovely as pie.

Marie: (Rose's eyes grow large as Marie, shocked, elbows her then grabs her arm to pull her away from the conversation.) We were just on our way to visit with the Dycks…

Rose: We were? (conversation continues but fades as the Marie drags Rose away)

Mrs. Whitney: Looks like we're going to have a good turnout, in spite of having less activities.

Mr. Whitney: You know Mayor Murphy works hard planning the town picnics - especially considering the budget he has to work with.

Mrs. Whitney: Yes, but whoever heard of a May Day picnic without a May Pole?

Mr. Whitney: Well, you have to admit that a corn weeding contest is pretty original.

Mrs. Whitney: Conveniently held in Murphy's corn patch!

Mr. Whitney: Now, Emma. (noticing Mattie approaching) Say, Here comes Mattie.

Mrs. Whitney: Hello there, Mattie.

Mr. Whitney: Hi, Mattie.

Mattie: Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Whitney. I see you brought your famous apple pie once again.

Mrs. Whitney: Famous? (laughing) I don't know about that. What a beautiful day for the picnic.

Mattie: It's going to be keen!

Mrs. Whitney: So, how are you doing?

Mattie: (hesitantly) You mean getting along with Father?

Mrs. Whitney: Well, I guess that would include him, too. I was thinking more of how you're doing in your new walk with the Lord.

Mattie: I've been reading my Bible every day - just like you said.

Mrs. Whitney: Good for you. You can't expect to grow spiritually if you aren't fed spiritually. Spend time with the Lord every day, in Scripture and prayer, honey. He'll lead you with His Word.

Mattie: (nodding) You know, I really appreciate all that you and Mr. Whitney have done for me. You've become like a mother to me.

Mrs. Whitney: The Lord knows how much you must miss your own dear mother. (slight pause) So how is your father doing?

Mattie: (firmly) Well, he'd sure be better off if he'd just leave that corn liquor alone!

Mrs. Whitney: Mattie, alcohol doesn't make a man bad. We're all sinners by nature. The liquor only brings out what's already inside a person.

Mattie: I know you're right.

Mrs. Whitney: Well, you just keep praying that your Father comes to know the Lord.

Mattie: Oh yes, I am. (noticing the Hudsons) Oh, hello, Penelope.

Mattie: (calling out) Penelope, hello. I'm glad you made it to the celebration.

Penelope: (almost to herself) Just because a person "gets religion" does not raise their social status.

Victoria: Come along, Penelope. (all three continue walking past, disapprovingly.)

Calvin: (looking about) Hmph. They call this a celebration?

Mrs. Whitney: (gently) Oh, honey, don't let them bother you.

Mattie: But how can they be so mean?

Mrs. Whitney: Mr. Hudson lost a good part of his fortune in the crash. About all that he has now is his name.

Mattie: And social status.

Mrs. Whitney: (laughing) If that's what you want to call it. You know, Mattie, if you could see things as the Lord does, it would be easier for you to forgive them.

Mattie: What do you mean?

Mrs. Whitney: Deep down, I believe the Hudsons are really hurting.

Mattie: Hurting?

Mrs. Whitney: They've put their trust in money -- and it's failed them.

Mattie: I hadn't thought about that…

Mrs. Whitney: Ok, enough of this serious talk. Why don't you find Christy and ask her about that new dress she's sewing?

Mattie: I think I will.

Mrs. Whitney: (pulling a piece of paper from her pocket) And I should give this clipping to Thelma before I forget.

Marie: There it is. (looking at pie and nodding)

Rose: There it is. (also nodding, she reaches out to break off some crust, but Marie slaps her hand)

Marie: Rose! You're an embarrassment to both of us. (looking all around) What if someone had been watching? (convinced that no one is watching, breaks off a piece of crust and eats it.)

Rose: But you just did it!

Marie: Well, I looked first!

Rose: Ooh. (slight pause) So what does it taste like?

Marie: (thinking) Like… like… (lacking a better description) Well, kind of like pie crust.

Rose: Oh. That's good.

Marie: That's good? What's it supposed to taste like?

Rose: Well, your crust doesn't always taste like pie crust.

Marie: Rose!

Rose: Well, do you think we would win the recipe contest with the pies that you make?

Marie: Well, yours aren't any better.

Rose: Oh. You're right…

Murphy: Well, I hope it will be a good day - even if it's not quite as elaborate as what we've put on in the past.

Mr. Whitney: Oh, I plan on having a good time all the same!

Murphy: Still, I wish I had been able to hire some live music.

Stewart: Oh? I thought you had booked a Ladies' Tambourine Trio… (Jim Bob winces)

Murphy: One of the ladies called just this morning. Her daughter just had a baby, and she's going to have to help out, so they won't be able to come.

Jim Bob: (relieved) Isn't that good?

Murphy: (Looking at Jim Bob sharply) Jim Bob!

Jim Bob: I -- meant about the baby.

Kenneth: We still have one politician scheduled to speak.

Jim Bob: Why that's the onliest thing that nobody would 'a missed!

Mr. Whitney: Oh, Murphy, it's all right. We all know that as the Mayor of Yatesville, you put a lot of effort into planning these events.

Murphy: Hopefully, people understand that there's not much money for town activities any more.

Stewart: Say - maybe for the July Fourth picnic, you could enlist some volunteer musicians!

Murphy: I tried that. With so many people out of work, most musicians are wanting to be paid at least something for their time.

Jim Bob: Oh well. Maybe it'll still be a good day - (makes face) without the tambourines.

Thelma: I'll have to read that article. I've never heard of using rhubarb to get rid of aphids.

Mrs. Whitney: Well, I thought of you right away when I saw it.

Thelma: (setting down her dish) Oh, Emma - that's your pie, isn't it? Apple?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes.

Thelma: You make the best pie I've ever tasted!

Mrs. Whitney: Goodness. It's not my baking, it's just the recipe.

Thelma: Then maybe I need your recipe!

Mrs. Whitney: Well, it has been kept in the family for years.

Mr. Whitney: Perhaps the economy will turn around soon and next year will be different.

Jim Bob: I'd say. What we really need is more jobs. I've been job huntin' for the past year now since the farm's doin' so poorly, but just haven't found much yet. But Mayor Murphy says I can help him.

Kenneth: A paying job?

Jim Bob: Nah - but Murphy says I'll get the experience for free!

Stewart: There'll be more jobs when the economy stabilizes.

Murphy: And when the economy stabilizes - we'll have more jobs. Say, did you hear that Mr. Phillips' grandson is comin' down from Kansas City to help out at the bank?

Jim Bob: Oh really?

Kenneth: Yes, I had. That should help the whole town.

Murphy: Sounds like Mr. Phillips has great confidence in him. He thinks his grandson will be able to help keep the bank solid.

Mr. Whitney: That's great news. A bank failure in any town is hard on all the other businesses.

Murphy: And as mayor I want to see our town succeed.

Jim Bob: But do ya think a small town like Yateville can keep a bank open these days.

Stewart: Why, Jim Bob, that's hard to say. In smaller towns, a lot of banks have closed.

Kenneth: Well, that's one thing I know Mr. Phillips doesn't want to do! I'm guessing that's why he's having Ed come down to help out.

Jim Bob: But don't you fellers ever get discouraged by how long this Depression has already gone on?

Murphy: Of course I do!

Stewart: Me, too. But there's not much we can do about it. So we might as well accept things cheerfully and do the best we can.

Jim Bob: But how long 'fore things fin'ly turn around? I mean, some days I wonder if things is ever gonna get better.

Murphy: Sure they will.

Mr. Whitney: Yes, they will. But in the meantime, we should be thankful for the things we still have.

Jim Bob: Yes, I guess we've still got much to be thankful for!

Marie: (to Rose) But we still don't have the pie recipe!

Mr. Whitney: Well, hello there, Murphy. How are you?

Murphy: (sighing) E--xhausted.

Mr. Whitney: Why, surely you've recovered from the May Day picnic?

Murphy: Yes, but I'm already working on the July Fourth celebration. I'm having trouble getting donations for the fireworks display.

Mr. Whitney: Well, why didn't you say so? (opening cash drawer)

Murphy: I just did. (holding out his hand)

Mr. Whitney: Hm. I wish I could give more, but here's a couple of dollars. (hands money to Murphy) Maybe that will prime the pump.

Murphy: Thanks. I don't know what this town would do without you. Now if we could only find some good entertainment.

Mr. Whitney: You're not coming up with anything then?

Murphy: (hesitantly) I found some harmonica players and yodelers.

Mr. Whitney: Why either one of those sounds good to me.

Murphy: (sighing) It's the same group - they play harmonica and yodel at the same time.

Mr. Whitney: Oh, that sounds like it might hurt.

Murphy: Oh, no. They've been doing it for years.

Mr. Whitney: I meant listening to it - - But I'm sure you'll find something.

Murphy: By the way, did you hear about Stevens' grocery store?

Mr. Whitney: No…

Murphy: It was broken into last night.

Mr. Whitney: I hadn't heard. Was much taken?

Murphy: It sounds like not too much. Though, the saddest part about the robbery is what it's done to the store.

Mr. Whitney: What do you mean?

Murphy: Mr. Stevens also has to pay for the damage done from breaking in, and there's rumors that he was extended on his credit at the bank.

Mr. Whitney: Do you know that for sure?

Murphy: No, but if it is true, it could mean the closing of the store.

Mr. Whitney: Possibly.

Murphy: If the bank forecloses on Mr. Stevens, that will mean two more men without jobs. --More grief for Yatesville.

Mr. Whitney: I'm sure Mr. Phillips is doing all he can to keep the bank's loans solvent and now he has his grandson to help out.

Murphy: Well, I don't see what difference one fellow can make, but I guess we'll find out.

Sound Cue: Clock strikes 3 times as Mrs. Whitney enters from the back of the store and begins to dust.

Murphy: (laughing) When are you ever going to get that clock fixed? How in the world do you ever know what time it is?

Mr. Whitney: Well, it always chimes 6 hours off of what the hands say.

Murphy: So that's why it only chimed three times even though it's nine?

Mr. Whitney: I've gotten to where I don't even think about it any more. Besides, it'd cost more to have it fixed than what it's worth.

Murphy: Well, maybe you're right, but I'd think it'd take some getting used to. Well, I'd better run along and see if I can drum up some more money for the fireworks. Thanks again for the donation.

Mr. Whitney: Well, hello there.

Jack & Mattie: Hello, hi, etc.

Mr. Whitney: Say, Jack, we missed you at the big picnic.

Jack: (sheepishly) Yeah, well, I -- wasn't feeling up to it. (Mattie frowns)

Mr. Whitney: How's that new litter of pigs doing?

Jack: Not too poorly.

Mr. Whitney: Good, good. Well, what can we be getting you today?

Jack: I'm needin' a half inch bolt.

Mr. Whitney: How long?

Jack: Five inches.

Mrs. Whitney: I'll go get it. (nods to Mattie, who follows Mrs. Whitney to the back, visiting as they leave)

Jack: I s'pose ya heard about the robbery at Stevens' grocery store?

Mr. Whitney: The mayor just told me. It's been a long time since we've had something like that in Yatesville.

Jack: Well, desperate times can make people do desperate things.

Mr. Whitney: I suppose if a man has hungry children, it might be a temptation… But, stealing is always wrong.

Jack: But what's a fella to do if he's wantin' work, and can't find it? There's plenty 'nough men who would gladly work just for food.

Mr. Whitney: Well, hello, Ed. Say, have you met Jack Marten?

Ed: Can't say that I've had the pleasure.

Mr. Whitney: Ed, this is Jack Marten. Jack, this is Edward Phillips.

Ed: Nice to meet you.

Jack: Likewise. (slightly skeptical) So you're Mr. Phillips' grandson?

Ed: Yes, I just came down from Kansas City a few days ago. My Grandfather and I have plans to help keep things financially stable in Yatesville. We're going to pull each account and go over them individually, seeing what we can do to strengthen each business - especially those that have a loan at the State Bank.

Jack: I hear you've been to college…

Ed: Yes, I graduated just a year ago from Washburn.

Mr. Whitney: Well, I'm sure your Grandfather is very happy to have you here helping him.

Ed: Yes, he is. I'll try to do all I can for both the bank and the town.

Mr. Whitney: Well, that's good. Now, say- what can we get for you?

Ed: I need a package of lights. (laughing) Grandpa's been trying to cut costs everywhere. He says that if you don't replace the burned out bulbs, it saves you twice. First, you save on the cost of the lights, and then you save on the light bill as well.

Mr. Whitney: (pointing to a shelf nearby) You'll find the lights on that shelf. But as Ben Franklin said, "A penny saved is a penny earned."

Ed: (good-naturedly) If we only wanted to cut expenses, we would completely shut down the bank, and not have to pay any utilities. (laughing) But obviously, we wouldn't make any money, either. (gets a package of light bulbs)

Mr. Whitney: I guess you got a point there.

Ed: But it won't be long and we'll have things ship shape. Every town needs a strong bank, and I'll do what I can to see that our bank stays strong.

Jack: (skeptical) But- so many banks in other towns have already failed.

Mr. Whitney: Say, there you are. I was wondering if I'd have to go find that bolt myself.

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, we stopped to look at the new fabrics.

Mr. Whitney: (laughing) On the way to the bolt bin?

Mattie: The fabrics are awfully lovely - I just wish that-- (breaks off, looking at her dad, then looks down)

Mr. Whitney: (stepping in to break the awkwardness) Say, Ed, have you met Mattie?

Ed: (offering his hand) Can't say that I've had the pleasure. You must be awfully proud of her.

Mr. Whitney: Oh, we'd be proud to claim her, but we don't have that honor. Mattie is Jack's daughter.

Ed: Oh. So sorry for the mistake. (to Jack) Then you must be proud to have such a lovely daughter.

Jack: Well, thank you.

Ed: (holding light bulbs) Would you put these on the bank's account?

Mr. Whitney: Sure thing.

Ed: Thanks. I'd better get back to work then. Goodbye. (exits)

Mr. Whitney and Jack: Goodbye.

Mattie: So he's Mr. Phillips' grandson?

Mr. Whitney: It sounds like he has a lot of ideas. But with the economy the way it is, they have a challenge ahead of them.

Jack: Well, I hope he can keep this town afloat.

Mattie: Me too.

Mrs. Whitney: Time will tell, honey. Time will tell.

Christy: …and so all I have left are the buttonholes, buttons, and hem.

Mattie: It sounds like it will be really keen.

Christy: I know my parents really had to save every penny to afford the fabric, but I'm so thankful to have a new dress.

Mattie: I know. I wish my dad would save his money that he spends on liquor.

Christy: Oh, I didn't mean -

Mattie: Oh, it's ok, Christy. It's just hard to see dad waste his money on alcohol. (Penelope enters, coming within hearing distance.) But I still have Mom's dresses, so I can get by. And I really am glad that you're getting to make something special.

Christy: And it was a lot of fun to sew it.

Penelope: (snobbish) Oh, I didn't know the Ladies Sewing Society was meeting here..

Christy: We were just talking about a new dress that I'm sewing for the July Fourth picnic.

Penelope: And I'm planning on buying a new dress for the picnic. From what I hear I'll be needing something new.

Mattie: What do you mean?

Penelope: Well, a gal couldn't very well go out with the banker's grandson in just any old rag.

Christy: Has Edward asked you to go to the picnic?

Penelope: Well, not yet…. (smiling) but he will. Oh, (looking at Christy's dress) Did you sew that dress, too?

Christy: (proudly) Why, yes, I did.

Penelope: (with nose in air) It shows.

Mattie: Ooh! Sometimes I just want to slap her face!

Christy: (also sitting and responding gently) I know. So do I. But instead, I think we should try to be her friend.

Mattie: Well, you may think so, but I don't think Penelope likes the idea too much.

Christy: I know you haven't been a Christian for very long. But you do know that Christ said we're to love our enemies?

Mattie: Well, yes- but sometimes it isn't very easy!

Christy: (laughing) I'd agree with that. (slight pause) Do you really think Penelope will get Edward to ask her to the picnic?

Mattie: Well - maybe not.

Christy: But Penelope always gets what she wants.

Mattie: Usually - but --

Christy: What?

Mattie: Well….

Christy: You know something…. Out with it!

Mattie: Ed's already invited me to go with him.

Christy: He has!

Mattie: Yes…after church last Sunday.

Christy: Are you going?

Mattie: I haven't said one way or the other.

Christy: What are you, crazy? The banker's grandson from Kansas City has asked you to go out, and you don't want to go with him?

Mattie: Well, yes, but -

Christy: Don't you like him?

Mattie: Well, of course -

Christy: So, why are you so unsure?

Mattie: My father thinks I shouldn't go.

Christy: Why?

Mattie: I don't know. He just doesn't like Ed - maybe he's jealous that Ed is successful while he's still young, and my dad - well, you know how he drinks.

Christy: So what are you going to do?

Mattie: I don't know. I want to talk to Mrs. Whitney about it first. (standing) Now, let's go to your house and work on that dress before I have to head for home.

Marie: But we only have a month and a half to get that recipe before the contest deadline!

Rose: So what are we going to do?

Marie: Well, we can't very well enter a recipe that we don't have.

Rose: (thoughtfully) You know, you're right.

Marie: So you're going to ask Emma for the recipe.

Rose: Oh. --I'm what?

Marie: Emma comes past here every morning about this time to get the mail. When she comes by, you can just ask her for the recipe.

Rose: But what if she says no? I can't just -

Marie: (interrupting) Hush! Here she comes now - act natural. (Rose is obviously nervous as Mrs. Whitney approaches with mail.)

Mrs. Whitney: Well, good day ladies. Isn't it lovely out today?

Rose: (nervously) Oh , uh yes. Lovely as-- (Marie stops her with an elbow) Uh…cake!

Mrs. Whitney: (perplexed) Oh?

Marie: Yes, quite nice. By the way, Rose had a question for you, didn't you Rose?

Rose: I did? Uh, I mean, I did.

Mrs. Whitney: Oh?

Marie: Yes, it was about your pie… (giving Rose a slight nudge)

Marie: Well, Rose?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes?

Rose: I was going to, I was going to - ask if you're bringing your apple pie to the July Fourth picnic!

Mrs. Whitney: (puzzled) Well, I hadn't thought about it yet, but, yes, I suppose I will…

Rose: Oh, good.

Marie: (stepping forward) Actually, she was going to ask if we could borrow your recipe.

Mrs. Whitney: Borrow it?

Rose: (defensively) Well, we'd give it back when we're done!

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, but it's been in the family for years. No one has given it out yet.

Marie: Well, just think, you could be the very first, then.

Mrs. Whitney: I don't know, Marie. I'm not sure I should.

Marie: Oh, then we'll just look forward to eating it at the picnic then.

Mrs. Whitney: I'm glad you're so understanding. Well, see you ladies later. (exits)

Rose: Now what are we going to do?

Marie: We'll just have to get hold of her pie and somehow and figure out what she puts in it!

Mr. Whitney: Well, hello there. How are you doing today?

Jack: I'd be doin' better if I could catch that ol' coon that keeps tryin' to get in the chicken house. As if I didn't have enough troubles already. I'm needin' some 10-penny nails to do some patching on the coop.

Mr. Whitney: How much?

Jack: 'bout a half pound. (somewhat roughly to Mattie) I need to run to a few other stores, I guess you can stay here. (to Mr. Whitney) I'll be back in a little bit…

Mattie: Sure.

Mr. Whitney: We'll have them sacked up and waiting for you.

Mrs. Whitney: Well, hello there, Mattie.

Mr. Whitney: (inquisitive) Say, looks like your dad got some new shoes….

Mattie: (disgusted) I hope no one else notices.

Mr. Whitney: Now, what's that supposed to mean?

Mattie: Come on, Mr. Whitney. Everyone knows the shoe store was robbed last Monday night….

Mrs. Whitney: What are you saying now, honey?

Mattie: He didn't buy the shoes, Mrs. Whitney.

Mrs. Whitney: Then how did he get them?

Mattie: I found them on our porch Tuesday morning. Father claims that he doesn't know anything about them.

Mr. Whitney: So why do you doubt him?

Mattie: Doesn't it seem rather suspicious to you?

Mrs. Whitney: Was your father home Monday night?

Mattie: He said he was out hayin'.

Mr. Whitney: Well, he probably was.

Mattie: Do you believe him?

Mr. Whitney: I agree that it doesn't look good, but we should always hope for the best, until it's been proven otherwise.

Mrs. Whitney: Maybe there's some logical explanation...

Mattie: I hope so…. Isn't it enough that he drinks from time to time?

Mr. Whitney: Mattie, no matter how things turn out, the Bible says that you are to honor your father.

Mattie: But how do I show honor to someone like my father?

Mrs. Whitney: One way is by your obedience...

Mr. Whitney: Say, speaking of honoring your father, I'd better go get those nails sacked up before he gets back! (exits to rear)

Mattie: Mrs. Whitney, what was it like when you met Mr. Whitney?

Mrs. Whitney: My, that was a long time ago.

Mattie: But surely you still remember?

Mrs. Whitney: (smiling) Oh yes, I still remember quite well.

Mattie: Well, how did you know?

Mrs. Whitney: How did I know what?

Mattie: That Mr. Whitney was "the one?"

Mrs. Whitney: (laughing) That's not an easy question to answer, Mattie. I guess there were a lot of reasons.

Mattie: Such as?

Mrs. Whitney: We had a lot of things in common. We both enjoyed singing in the church choir. (slight pause) And of course, my parents thought Mr. Whitney was the greatest.

Mattie: Oh…

Mrs. Whitney: (laughing) I'm beginning to think this conversation is about someone in particular.

Mattie: It is. I've been invited to go to the Independence Day picnic. But I just don't know what to tell him.

Mrs. Whitney: Are you going to tell me who asked you?

Mattie: Believe it or not, it's Edward Phillips.

Mrs. Whitney: Edward?

Mattie: (smiling) I was so shocked when he first asked me. Isn't it hard to believe, out of all of the girls in town, that he's asked me!

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, I don't find it surprising that a man is attracted to someone with such a sweet personality and lovely smile! But what does your dad say?

Mattie: Oh, he doesn't think I should go!

Mrs. Whitney: Did he say why?

Mattie: No - he was just upset. I think maybe he just doesn't like Ed because it shows him up for the man he is. Here's a man coming to serve the town and help keep it on its feet. While instead, my dad is out -- (is overcome with emotion)

Mrs. Whitney: Honey, you still need to obey him - unless he asks you to go against what God says.

Mattie: Penelope is convinced that she can get Edward to ask her to the picnic.

Mrs. Whitney: Really? Did she come right out and say so?

Mattie: Yes, she told Christy and me that she's planning on getting a new dress for the picnic because she thought Edward was going to ask her to go with him.

Mrs. Whitney: Well, maybe she overestimated herself this time.

Mattie: Penelope is used to getting her way.

Mrs. Whitney: You're not wanting to go with Ed, just to get back at Penelope, are you?

Mattie: Oh, no. I really don't think so. I mean, I don't want it to be. It's just that - well, things seem so different when I'm around Edward.

Mrs. Whitney: What do you mean?

Mattie: Oh, I don't know. It's like… it's just special. Isn't that how you're supposed to feel if you're in love?

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, that's what the world tells us. But actually, how we feel doesn't affect how much we love someone. Instead, how much we love someone will eventually affect how we feel about them.

Mattie: What do you mean?

Mrs. Whitney: True love doesn't run hot and cold like your feelings do. Real love isn't about feeling happy just because you're with someone.

Mattie: Then what is love?

Mrs. Whitney: Real love is - being kind, even to someone who treats you unkindly. It's forgiving someone who's done something unkind - and it's asking forgiveness when you've been the one who wronged someone. Real love is being true to someone – even if they do wrong.

Mattie: Like Dad?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes, honey. The Bible tells us that love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. (smiling) We're never told that it's easy. Just that it's right.

Mattie: I don't know, Mrs. Whitney. Isn't it bad enough that he drinks? And now this -- I can only imagine how the people are talking.

Mrs. Whitney: Don't worry about what other people say. Just believe what God says. He knows what real love is about.

Mattie: I want to show real love to my father - I'm just not sure that I can.

Mrs. Whitney: He'll help you - His love never fails.

Sound Cue: insistent knocking

Mrs. Whitney: (calling out) Sorry, we're closed.

Sound Cue: knocking continues

Mrs. Whitney: Goodness. Who would be coming here at this time of night? (goes to front door to unlock it and open it.) Oh, hi there, Jack. Frank's not here right now, he's down at the town hall -

Mrs. Whitney: (seeing the sack) Jack you shouldn't be here now - like this --

Jack: You mean 'cause a what I got?

Mrs. Whitney: Well, yes - I think you'd be better off at home right now.

Jack: So you don't want me here? You and Frank jus' think you're better than other folks - that's all.

Sound Cue: Clock strikes 3 times

Jack: When you gonna get that stinkin' clock fixed? Ya always go 'round tryin' to fix everythin' else ya can.

Mrs. Whitney: What do you mean?

Jack: Thinkin' ya gotta try to fix ol' Mattie 'cause her pa can't train her up right. You had to help her get religion, didn't you now?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes, we've tried to influence her for good. We've encouraged her to follow Christ's teaching, which means honoring, and obeying you as her father.

Jack: Don't make no dif'rence no how. You should leave her alone and fix your own problems. You're gonna get her so high and mighty holy that she'll think she's too good for her old dad.

Mrs. Whitney: Jack, you know that's not true. I wish I could explain it to you -if you could just wait until Frank gets back.

Jack: I ain't waitin' for nobody.

Mrs. Whitney: Well then, maybe you should leave.

Jack: (sitting down) Maybe so, but maybe you just want to get rid of me.

Mrs. Whitney: Jack, you need to be home. Where's Mattie?

Jack: She's at home. She don't need to come with me all the time to town… You just leave her alone. I can raise that girl all right by myself. You just stay away from her.

Mrs. Whitney: Shall I call Frank?

Jack: (getting up) No. No. Don't go getting the whole town stirred up now. I's jus' had a few sips. Nothin' to get all worked up over. I'll go home.

Mrs. Whitney: Can you ring the Marten place for me? (slight pause) Oh, thanks. (pause) Hello, Mattie? (pause) Yes, this is Mrs. Whitney. Your dad was just in. (pause) Yes, I'm afraid so -- no, he's on his way home now. (pause) Oh, I understand. I just wanted to let you know so you could be sure he makes it home ok. Yes, yes, we will. Goodbye.

Mrs. Whitney: That certainly was a long meeting.

Murphy: It probably would've gone longer if it hadn't been for all the excitement.

Mrs. Whitney: Excitement?

Mr. Whitney: There was another robbery, this time at Roger's office supply.

Murphy: Mr. Rogers broke up the meeting at nine when he came running in to tell us he had just been robbed.

Mrs. Whitney: Did they arrest the man?

Mr. Whitney: No, Mr. Rogers had caught a glimpse of him leaving by the back window. By the time we got there, it was too late. All we could do was to help clean up the broken glass.

Murphy: What's worse is that they usually do more damage getting in, than what they steal.

Mr. Whitney: Yes, the bank has already foreclosed on the Stevens.

Murphy: It seems such a shame.

Mr. Whitney: Yes, something like this may cause another business to fold, and more men will be without jobs.

Murphy: And it won't reflect too well on the mayor of the town either.

Mr. Whitney: Hopefully the Rogers aren't in as tight of a position. Losing one store will be hard enough on this town. (suddenly) Say, we about forgot the paint for the bandstand. (to Mrs. Whitney) Murphy is organizing a painting crew for the picnic. (goes to side and comes back with a paint can and a couple of paintbrushes, which he hands to Murphy.)

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, then you've found some musicians?

Mr. Whitney: Murphy talked Jim Bob into getting something together.

Murphy: No, that fell through.

Mr. Whitney: Oh, that's too bad. What happened?

Murphy: His mother wanted her washboard back.

Mr. Whitney: (groan) Well, maybe you'll find something else. In the meantime, have fun on the painting project.

Murphy: So long. (Murphy exits)

Mrs. Whitney: (emotional) Oh, Frank, Jack Marten stopped in while you were gone--

Mr. Whitney: Oh?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes, he was drinking again.

Mr. Whitney: That's too bad. What did he want?

Mrs. Whitney: He told me to leave Mattie alone - that we're making her too good for him. You know how I've tried to encourage Mattie to obey her dad, in spite of all that's happened. (wiping eyes) And now he comes and tells me what a bad influence I've been on her!

Mr. Whitney: Now, Emma.

Mrs. Whitney: He doesn't want Mattie to go with Ed to the picnic, though I don't know why. But I've encouraged her to obey her father anyway. And now I get this - how can I tell her to keep honoring and loving her father?

Mr. Whitney: Because it's the right thing to do. Love always does right, Emma. Love never fails. (Emma nods)

Rose: So, now what are we going to do?

Marie: Why don't you think of something?

Rose: Why me? You always go around telling me what to do.

Marie: I do not!

Rose: You do too. You're always giving me orders.

Marie: I do not.

Rose: You do too.

Marie: Quit arguing with me!

Rose: Are you sure you don't always tell me what to do?

Marie: Quit thinking such silly ideas!

Rose: All right. But what are we going to do?

Marie: I don't know, the deadline for the recipe contest is in just three weeks. (suddenly) I've got it!

Rose: You do?

Marie: It just might work.

Rose: Oh, I'm glad.

Marie: Let's see the picnic is on the Fourth, and the deadline is on the 11th. A week would be enough time, I'd think.

Rose: (counting on fingers) 5th, 6th, 7th… How many days are there in a week?

Marie: (not paying attention to Rose) Though it would sure be easier if Emma would just give us the recipe.

Rose: Well, of course, it would.

Marie: So will you do it?

Rose: I have no idea. Whatever are you talking about?

Marie: Taking Emma's pie!

Rose: (horrified) We're going to take Emma's pie?

Marie: No.

Rose: (relieved) Oh, good.

Marie: You're going to take Emma's pie and then we'll just have to see if we can figure out what her secret ingredient is from tasting the pie.

Rose: But how will I get it?

Marie: It will be easy - you'll take it at the picnic - when no one is looking.

Rose: But that's stealing.

Marie: No, it won't be. (Marie tugs on Rose, and they begin to exit.) It will be - uh, swapping. We'll put another pie in it's place!

Rose: Oh. Do you think anyone will know the difference?

Victoria: Yes, I realize how much your portfolio has changed since the crash. But you are aware of how much more a dollar can buy these days?

Calvin: That is not the issue, Victoria. It's a matter of what we can and can not afford. And we simply can not afford both a new dress and new shoes.

Penelope: (pouty) Oh, Daddy, please. You could do it just this one teeny time… I know - we could give up drinking lemonade for the rest of the summer…?

Victoria: There you are, Calvin.

Calvin: But I am the only member of the family who drinks lemonade.

Penelope: See there then, I've already saved you enough money to pay for my shoes.

Victoria: She has a point.

Calvin: I just don't see how we could afford it…

Penelope: Well, I suppose we could just steal them like whoever broke into Montgomery's.

Calvin: (sharply) Don't you ever suggest we lower ourselves to the Marten's standards.

Victoria: (looking around to see if anyone heard) Now, we really don't know for sure that it was Jack.

Calvin: What more proof do we need, Victoria? A few days after Montgomery's was broken into, the man shows up in town wearing new shoes. Then Mrs. Whitney saw him in town the night of the office store robbery, and he has no alibi.

Victoria: He claims he was drunk and doesn't remember…

Calvin: That's an alibi?

Victoria: I know that it's all rather suspicious, Calvin. But if there was enough evidence, surely the police would have arrested him.

Calvin: Hopefully they will very soon.

Penelope: Please, Mummy, Daddy, let's not argue. Can't we go shop for the shoes now?

Calvin: Well, I just don't see how…

Victoria: Calvin, can't we at least go look?

Calvin: I suppose. But, Penelope, this doesn't mean that we're going to purchase anything.

Penelope: Oh, Father, ple--ase. We don't want the town to think our family is… poor.

Calvin: Well, maybe we could at least look and see if there is some inexpensive pair we can afford…

Penelope: (smiling now) Wonderful, Father - you're just peachy keen! I know I'll look just stunning at the picnic.

Calvin: I'm sure you will, Penelope.

Penelope: But, of course, a new parasol would truly complete the ensemble.

Calvin: Penelope!

All: Hello, hi, etc.

Murphy: Lovely day, isn't it?

Penelope: It's always a lovely day when Father buys me new clothes. (Calvin groans)

Victoria: We are looking forward to the picnic.

Calvin: And we are certainly hoping it will be much better than the last one.

Murphy: Oh, it will - we've been working for a long time.

Kenneth: Say, what have you been working on?

Jim Bob: The Fourth of July picnic.

Stewart: Oh, how are plans coming?

Mrs. Whitney: Well, hello there! I wasn't too sure your dad would let you stop by after the other night. How are you and he getting along?

Mattie: Oh, he doesn't remember much about that night. But he did say I could stop in for a few minutes while he's running some other errands. (despondently) I told Ed I couldn't go with him to the picnic…

Mrs. Whitney: Good for you, honey. I'm sure it wasn't easy.

Mattie: (sighing) And now he's asked Penelope…

Mrs. Whitney: Really? But you're the better off for it, honey. Even if it doesn't seem like it right now.

Mattie: Maybe I'll just stay home from the picnic this year…

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, you can't do that.

Mattie: I just don't feel like going.

Mrs. Whitney: But you'll feel much worse, staying at home by yourself.

Mattie: I don't know… I'm not sure I can stand to see Penelope parading around in a new dress and boasting like a peacock. I'd love to see her humbled, just once.

Mrs. Whitney: Now that's not a very loving attitude.

Mattie: I know, Mrs. Whitney, but I just don't feel loving right now.

Mrs. Whitney: But remember, honey, love isn't just about how you feel – love is an action. (thoughtfully) Regardless of how the other person is acting.

Mattie: Then what should I do? Mrs. Whitney, I'm scared. What if they arrest my father? What will I do?

Mrs. Whitney: I don't know Mattie. You'll have to trust the Lord day by day. And Mr. Whitney and I will do all we can to help. In the meantime, you must show love and honor to your father. The Lord will show you how.

Mattie: Mrs. Whitney, do you ever have trouble loving people?

Mrs. Whitney: Oh, honey, yes. In fact, I'm thinking right now of two ladies that I haven't treated in a right way.

Mattie: Really?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes, I need to start practicing what I preach, and I know now just what I need to do.

Mattie: (looking at the clock and standing) Oh, I'd better get running - I'm supposed to meet Father soon.

Mrs. Whitney: Yes, right now your obedience is the best honor. You'd better be going.

Mattie: See ya at the picnic, then I guess.

Mrs. Whitney: See ya then.

Murphy: We got that ol' bandstand painted.

Mr. Whitney: Well, hello there fellows. So you got through with the bandstand?

Murphy: We just finished. But we had an extra paintbrush to return - (motioning to Jim Bob) we only needed one. (Jim Bob grins and nods)

Jim Bob: Too bad there won't be much of a band.

Mrs. Whitney: (writing up a ticket) Oh, I'd say a couple of violins and trombones are better than nothing.

Jim Bob: You ain't heard the trombones yet. Say, what are the chances that the thief will steal those before the picnic? (Murphy winces)

Mrs. Whitney: I just wish the police would catch whomever the burglar is.

Jim Bob: We all know who he is.

Mr. Whitney: Jim Bob, you'll have to fill me in.

Jim Bob: Ah, ya all know it's Jack Marten - and I'd like t' see him to pay for it!

Mr. Whitney: Now how do you know it was Jack?

Jim Bob: Well, didn't Mr. Rogers say he saw the thief himself?

Mr. Whitney: He saw him. But did he identify him?

Murphy: Ted only saw him aways off, but he told me that it might have been Jack Marten.

Mr. Whitney: From far away, a lot of people might look similar.

Jim Bob: Well, how many of them comes into town wearin' new shoes a few days after the shoe store was broke in? And how many of them was a' wanderin' around town, drunk, the night of the Office Store robbery?

Mr. Whitney: In America, I believe people are still considered innocent until proven guilty.

Jim Bob: You're just stickin' up for him 'cause your wife is such good friends with his daughter.

Mr. Whitney: Maybe so. But he needs a friend.

Murphy: Well, it is hard to not feel sorry for him, if he needed the food or shoes. (thoughtful pause) But what about the typewriter--

Jim Bob: What about it?

Murphy: Why, you're always saying that we need more jobs in town.

Mr. Whitney: (puzzled) What's that have to do with the typewriter?

Murphy: (sarcastically) Well, what was the thief trying to do - steal a typing job?

Jim Bob: Ya can't steal a job.

Murphy: That's where you're wrong. The bank's foreclosed on Stevens and Montgomery. All together, that comes to five men whose jobs were taken right under their noses!

Mr. Whitney: I hadn't thought about that before.

Murphy: (jokingly) So if the police want to find their culprit, all they have to do is find the jobs that disappeared.

Mr. Whitney: (with extreme thought) That's so.

Jim Bob: (laughing) I think you'd be better off stickin' to findin' some entertainment for our picnics.

Murphy: Speaking of the picnic! We need to hurry by Mrs. Wilson's house. She was going to piece together some decorations for the picnic.

Murphy: So long.

Jim Bob: Goodbye.

Mr. Whitney: Goodbye.

Mr. Whitney: (excitedly) I think the mayor's on to something!

Mrs. Whitney: Decorations?

Mr. Whitney: No, solving our mystery.

Mrs. Whitney: What in the world are you talking about?

Mr. Whitney: I think I may know who our thief is. If only there were a way to prove it.

Mrs. Whitney: And that would prove that Jack is innocent…

Mr. Whitney: If only he could remember more of that evening - Mattie says that he remembers little -

Mrs. Whitney: Well I remember very well.

Mr. Whitney: Emma, he needs our help. If only we knew what he did before and after he stopped in here... If only he could prove where he was at nine o'clock.

Mrs. Whitney: (suddenly) We can! Remember? He told me to fix my problems instead of Mattie's -- It doesn't matter what he did before and afterwards! Our clock is his alibi!

Mr. Whitney: What do you mean?

Mrs. Whitney: Yes - Remember how I said Jack complained that we tried to fix everything else - and asked why we didn't we fix the clock? He said that right after it chimed three times.

Mr. Whitney: (excitedly) That would have been exactly nine o'clock. He couldn't have made it from there to here in such a short amount of time.

Mrs. Whitney: So does that prove Jack is innocent?

Mr. Whitney: I would think so. And after I visit with the police chief, there may be another suspect as well.

Mrs. Whitney: But how do you know?

Mr. Whitney: Murphy told me.

Mrs. Whitney: (perplexed) He did?

Mr. Whitney: Sure. After all, if Jack didn't get the jobs, then who did?

(curtains)