WAITING STAR

______

A Musical in Two Acts

by

Edward Miller

© 2018 Edward Miller (541) 479-5463 [email protected] www.waitingstar.com

Waiting Star —A New Musical—

PRINCE HAL Prince Hal is affectionately remembered as “The Madcap Prince.” In his time — the early fifteenth century — his wayward adventures and lowly companions were an ongoing scandal, and caused people to fear for England’s future. Shakespeare was so intrigued by him that he made Prince Hal the central character in three of his plays. More than anything else, Hal was motivated by an enormous appetite for life. He wanted to experience everything and to play as many roles as possible — thief, lover, hero, and statesman. To the surprise of all, the “madcap” became one of England’s greatest Kings.

FALSTAFF Of all Prince Hal’s companions, none was more notorious than Sir John Falstaff. This merry rogue, a "Santa Claus for adults" is regarded as one of the greatest comic characters in English literature. Falstaff’s enormous size and out-of-control physical appetites make him a natural for comedy, but he is also a con artist of the first order. He’s learned to use humor as a way to evade, deceive and seduce. Easily, Falstaff’s roaring laughter and crafty wit could corrupt a saint

ANN Ann was born and raised in a small Welsh village. All her young life she believed herself to be the daughter of a Welsh lord, but after her “father’s” death, her mother confesses that she is really the natural daughter of a nobleman from Eastcheap, Sir John Falstaff. She decides to go in search of him. As the show opens, Ann has just arrived at the Boar’s Head Tavern and is stunned when she meets Falstaff. Ann believes that souls inhabit trees, flowers, streams and animals. Through her song, “Waiting Star,” she clears her mind and heart to receive the guidance of these spirits. The “voices,” though, are really from her deeper self. Through her remarkable intuition she actually has a wisdom and strength far greater than the people at court she wants so to impress. When she becomes “more sophisticated” she loses contact with that part of herself and is no longer able to feel the voices. Her victory, near the end of the play, is rediscovering that magical, romantic part of herself, and realizing its power. She also learns that she has helped Prince Hal to hear his own voice inside — a voice of destiny.

STAR-CROSSED After a stormy beginning, the love between Ann and Prince Hal becomes deeply powerful and they dream of a shared future. Unfortunately, politicians, courtiers, even Falstaff, scurry to make the romance serve their own ends. The conflict reaches a climax when Hal is nearly killed. Ann decides to return to Wales. At the show’s conclusion, Ann is on the boat landing when Prince Hal makes an unexpected appearance. While their future is uncertain, they realize their love has been victorious in a profound and powerful way. This magical force touched two people’s lives, changed them forever, and gave them a strength that nothing would ever take away.

“GOLDEN AGE OF MUSICALS” Although many of the characters in this show come from Shakespeare, the tone of Waiting Star is not “classical”— the treatment is comparable to a Golden Age musical. The author’s foremost goal is to create a show in this bright and entertaining tradition.

For more information about Waiting Star contact Edward Miller (541) 479-5463 [email protected] or visit www.waitingstar.com Musical Numbers

Act I

A Toast To The Boar’s Head - Falstaff and Chorus

Why Can’t They Sing About That? - King, Queen

Grand Adventure - Prince Hal, Chorus

Waiting Star – Ann

Just a Hint - Mistress Quickly, Women’s Chorus

One Place You Can’t Go Alone - Ann and Prince Hal

At The Turn of Fortune’s Wheel - Falstaff and Thieves

Act II

She Goes Somewhere - Prince Hal

Grand Adventure (Reprise) Ann & Prince Hal

Just a Hint - Falstaff & Mistress Quickly

When It’s My Day to Repent - Falstaff and Thieves

Waiting Star (Reprise) - Ann

Finale - Chorus Cast of Characters

PRINCE HAL: Male, 19-24 A wild youth who wants to experience everything that life has to offer. He is charismatic, handsome, and bright. His love for Ann proves to be transformative and he is destined to become one of England’s greatest kings.

ANN GWYNELLYN: Female, 18-22 Romantic, innocently beautiful, and possessed with unusual spiritual gifts. Her storybook idealism is challenged by the manipulations of the English court. She is also quick-witted and adventurous.

JACK FALSTAFF: Male, 50-70 A con artist of the first order; overweight, cunning, corrupt, and driven by his physical appetites. His contagious merriment and quick wit cause others to quickly forgive his vices. Some have described him as a “Santa Claus for adults”.

MISTRESS NELL QUICKLEY: Female, 40-70 Owner of the Boar’s Head Tavern. Shrewd and sometimes coarse, but with a soft heart. She and Falstaff have the most unusual of relationships.

MELISSA FARADAY: Female, 35-65 She is a strange outcast who is believed to be a witch. Psychic, mysterious and a bit scary.

BELLE MAYFIELD: Female, 16-20 Ann’s companion. Comical without meaning to be. Her wants in life are simple. She wants Ann to use her powers to get her a good husband. KING HENRY IV: Male, 40-50 Stern, dutiful and stingy. He is the opposite of his free-spirited son, Prince Hal.

QUEEN JOANNA: Female, 35-50 She is bright, quick-witted and spontaneous — a foil to her too-serious husband, King Henry.

HARRY HOTSPUR: Male, 20-30 Believes he, and not Prince Hal, should be the next King of England. A blustering, glory-seeking, young man who nonetheless has some inspired greatness in him. He is easily manipulated by the older men around him.

EDMUND RUTHERFORD: Male, 50-65 A devout, wise, and slightly corrupt elder statesman. He sees the love between Ann and Price Hal as a threat to England’s future. He does a lot of behind-the-scenes manipulation. A loyal supporter of King Henry.

CHARLES WORCESTER: Male, 40-60 An enemy of King Henry. Calculating, ambitious, and treacherous. He tires to bring down the king by manipulating Harry Hotspur.

JOHN NORTHUMBERLAND: Male 40-60 One of the conspirators against King Henry IV and Prince Hal. Ambitious and scheming.

NORA STARK: Female 35-60 She is assigned to watch over Ann and becomes her confidant. Kind but cynical.

THIEVES, SOLDIERS, PEOPLE OF THE COURT, AND A MESSENGER.

SCENE: England TIME:1403 1

ACT I

Scene 1

SETTING: A darkly lit room in a manor house. ANN, a young woman, has been writing a letter by candlelight. She stands and begins to sing a few lines from the song, “Waiting Star.”

ANN

In the hush Quiet sky There lies tomorrow Only a sigh Hopes can fade or fly.

(Discouraged, she stops singing and speaks to something invisible.)

Where are you? I’ve never needed you more than now.

(A messenger from the king enters. Ann is startled.)

MESSENGER The convoy to Wales is ready, Miss.

ANN I’ll not be much longer.

MESSENGER The King asked me to give this to you. It’s a gift. (Hands her parchment. After reading it Ann is almost amused.)

ANN The date of my parent’s wedding has been moved back two years by royal decree. That makes me legitimate.

MESSENGER If you wish for me to wait outside… 2

ANN I have a letter to be delivered. Find me a messenger who can be bribed.

MESSENGER Bribed, Miss? One of the King’s own messengers? (Ann brings out some gold pieces.) Who’s it for?

(Nora, a middle aged servant, enters. She listens quietly to the transaction that is taking place.)

ANN The Prince.

MESSENGER Miss, you know the King has forbid you to…

ANN I’ve said nothing the King could object to. (Hands him letter.)

MESSENGER It’s still a bit of a risk.

(Ann adds a couple more gold pieces to the stack. The Messenger nods knowingly and exits.)

ANN (Mostly to herself) This isn’t who I am. What’s happened to me?

NORA It’s not too late. You could still change your mind.

ANN (Shakes her head.) It’s best this way.

NORA The Prince would have you stay—you know that. There’s not a thing in all this world he’d have come between you. 3

ANN Not even his crown. That’s why it can’t be his choice.

NORA (Sadly) It’s a shame, Miss, truly.

ANN I suppose I should have known it would be this way from the beginning—from that first time I met my father. If I had any sense I would have left that very night.

NORA And what of your father, Miss? Do you mean to write?

ANN (Sadly) No.

NORA It’ll hurt him, Miss.

ANN It hurts me—more than you could imagine. All this has been a terrible mistake. All I knew of my father six months ago was that his name was Sir John Falstaff and that he was supposedly of very high station. Mother had kept him quite a secret. Now I know that in all the hundreds of pictures I drew of him in my mind, I’d never even come close. I’ll never forget my first sight of him—there he was in all his glory at the Boar’s Head. It was the beginning of Twelfth Night and father was bound to intoxicate the whole tavern…

FLASHBACK: Lively music builds under and the lights on the Boar’s Head Tavern quickly fade in. The famous tavern is filled with drinkers of every description— travelers, merchants, wayward nobles, thieves, wenches and servants. Falstaff, a robust, vibrant and joyously overweight King of Merriment, is center stage and he gives out a hearty laugh. 4

FALSTAFF I propose a toast: to the Prince of Wales! Ha, and I propose we have some more ale before Twelfth Night is passed and we find a man sober!

MISTRESS QUICKLY You owe me money, Sir John.

FALSTAFF Why, I’ll pay you every cent I owe and a thousand pounds besides. To Mistress Quickly!

(The drink is poured freely as the tavern people cheer.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY You’ll not have me so easily, Sir John. You’ll make account for every flask they drink. (She exits.)

FALSTAFF Here’s to the Boar’s Head! To manly appetites, round wenches, and deliciously grievous misconduct!

(Sings. During the song the chorus joins in and choreography depicts the atmosphere and color of the famous tavern.

I bid you welcome, Welcome to my world. To merriment’s king A sacred thing A fling A royal feast.

Where there's laughter and drink And a promisin’ wink. And there’s ever a rich-blooded wine. A toast to the Boar’s Head, A tavern divine. So have a good time. Oh, just have a good time.

With a maiden so nice 5

That you love for a price Mixing profit and pleasure and all A rollicking frolic is had off the hall So have a good time, A supremely good time.

Delve a lot in a platter brought. Feast away Like your final day. Grow merry and round With new pleasures found.

Where there’s full-hearted fun Take a chance on the run Laugh away with your morals undone. The Boar’s Head lives on like a merry old song. So just go and have a good time.

Now when they ask me, where is this place — this Boar’s Head Tavern, I answer: south of London and just outside the law!

Here’s to the stoutest variety of rogues you'll ever see. Men proud to be livin’ in the shadows and there feasting on a grand palette of full-bodied delights.

And here’s to the wenches who fill your eyes With charms that are double size

Great delight With a doll who's right. Wench you pick does a double trick. In arms soft and round You’re ecstasy bound.

In the wake of your night’s passion, Pay in the right fashion, Leave cares behind in your stead. With blood hot and red you will love the Boar’s Head, So just go and have a good time. Have a real good time.

(At the song’s conclusion, ANN is shown in by MISTRESS QUICKLY.) 6

ANN No… I’m sure there’s been a mistake. I wanted Sir John… He’s a noble.

MISTRESS QUICKLY And it’s Sir John I’m taking you to. Though I cannot imagine why any would seek that one—unless they be from the law. (Calls out) Sir John!

ANN No, wait. This can’t be the place. I’m looking for Sir John Falstaff—he’s a noble.

MISTRESS QUICKLY Well, you'll hear ‘im boast of his station soon enough—as to his money, I’ve yet to see the like of it. (Calls out) Sir John, have you drunk yourself to deafness? This one has some business with you.

FALSTAFF (Pleased) Ah.

MISTRESS QUICKLY And you’ll not cheat me again, Sir John. There’ll be an extra shilling on your room if she’s to sleep with you. (She exits.)

FALSTAFF A coarse wench!

ANN Are you…Sir…John Falstaff?

FALSTAFF Every noble inch! A living monument to the good life!

ANN (Weakly) And you’re of noble station? 7

FALSTAFF Is it not obvious? Truly, a man of wealth, title… and credit that is as good as a King’s oath. (Falstaff’s look makes Ann uneasy.)

ANN No. No! You don’t understand why I’m here. My name is Ann Gwynellyn. Does that name mean anything to you—Gwynellyn. I just arrived from Wales.

FALSTAFF Gwynellyn…

ANN A little over 19 years ago?

FALSTAFF What might be your mother’s name?

ANN (Suddenly sick) No, you tell me.

FALSTAFF Ann…how old might you be?

ANN Nineteen.

FALSTAFF

(Mutters) By my truth, that would be…

ANN Have you any idea…my mother’s name?

FALSTAFF (Weakly) Katherine.

(ANN is stunned and there is an awkward silence.) 8

ANN It’s been a long journey. I need to rest very badly.

The lighting shifts to two nobles who are seated at a table.

(On the opposite side of the stage a MESSENGER from the King enters. He speaks to MISTRESS QUICKLY and, after a cursory look around the room, MISTRESS QUICKLY calls FALSTAFF.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Sir John!

FALSTAFF (To ANN) Rest yourself a moment. There's one of the King’s own messengers. Some matter of state, no doubt. (FALSTAFF goes across stage to the MESSENGER)

WORCESTER (Indicating FALSTAFF) That’s the one I was telling you about —a known thief and reprobate. And, it would seem, the prince’s favorite companion.

NORTHUMBERLAND You say the Prince is here every night?

WORCESTER Very nearly.

NORTHUMBERLAND If the royal court hears of this…

WORCESTER Trust me: it will. (They toast) To England’s bright future.

(The lighting then shifts to FALSTAFF and the MESSENGER.) 9

MESSENGER I’m here for the Prince. Have you see him?

FALSTAFF Why, he was here but a moment ago.

MESSENGER Is he to return?

FALSTAF Soon enough. Our drinking bout is but half through.

MESSENGER The Prince in a drinking bout?

Falstaff: Against the very champion of Eastcheap. Are you a man for sport, yourself?

MESSENGER Not when I’m on duty.

(FALSTAFF has noticed the messenger’s pouch and, during the course of their talk, he manages to deftly maneuver the pouch into his own pocket.)

FALSTAFF Might I serve the King by passing on a message?

MESSENGER Tell him the King wants him back in court.

FALSTAFF So serious?

MESSENGER It is the King’s will.

FALSTAFF Travel well, my lord and do be careful. You’ll not find an honest man within a mile of these parts. I’ll see you out. (They exit.PRINCE HAL, carrying two bottles of wine, enters from the opposite side of 10

the stage. He is not dressed or recognizable as a prince. He speaks to FIRST THIEF.)

PRINCE Given up so soon? Now where’s the old tallow catch going?

FIRST THIEF He’ll be back. You’ll not see the likes of him desertin’ a room while there’s still a full bottle. Five pence of mine says he’ll drink your royal self under the table.

PRINCE You’d bet against me?

FIRST THIEF I’d bet he could drain half the cellars in Eastcheap. You haven't a chance, Hal.

PRINCE Even if my wine were thinned a cup to a gallon of water?

FIRST THIEF Aha.

PRINCE In another hour you’ll see him blubbering and snorting under the table like a great whale. (He notices ANN) Well, what’s this?

First Thief Ah, yes. Was speakin’ to Jack just a moment ago.

PRINCE Was she, now? Then I’d better find out whether her intentions be honorable or no. (He walks to her table.) I have to wonder why you’re sitting at my table.

ANN What?

PRINCE Well, technically, it’s the tavern’s table. (She starts to get up.) 11

I only need one chair.

ANN gets up and their eyes meet for the first time. They have one of “those moments” and are both a little startled.

ANN I don’t know you. Not at all.

PRINCE That’s easily remedied. I’m the Prince of Wales (Playfully) Charmed to meet you.

ANN The prince? Who do you think I am?

PRINCE That’s what I’m hoping to find out.

ANN I think you have the wrong idea about me.

PRINCE I hope not.

ANN I happen to be of noble parentage and if you don’t stop bothering me, you’re going to be in a great deal of trouble. (She begins to leaves the table.)

PRINCE I’ll try to remember my humble station.

(FALSTAFF enters. He happily tosses about the purse he stole from the messenger. Ann walks over to him.)

ANN Could we go somewhere else, please?

FALSTAFF Is someone bothering you? 12

ANN I just had someone introduce himself as the Prince of Wales.

FALSTAFF (Amused) Did you now? Was there nothing in his bearing to suggest he might be a true Prince?

ANN Of course not. (Falstaff laughs)

FALSTAFF Truth is, he expected you to believe him.

PRINCE (From the table) Aren’t you going to introduce me, Jack? The lady seems to require a formal introduction.

ANN (To FALSTAFF) Ignore him. Did he really expect me to believe him?

FALSTAFF I’m quite sure he did, lass. Come on, now, if you’re to meet him, it’d best be while he’s still sober.

PRINCE (To FALSTAFF) A friend of yours, Jack?

FALSTAFF (Stumbling) Not exactly, Hal.

ANN Hal? You’re permitted to address his highness by his first name?

FALSTAFF (Worried) Ann… 13

ANN Some people believe a maiden will believe anything if she happens to be from the Welsh countryside.

MESSENGER (Angrily returns) Nobody’s leaving here. My purse has been stolen and I’ll have the whole lot of you bound and searched till it’s recovered.

MISTRESS QUICKLY You’ll do no such thing to my paying customers.

MESSENGER I’m a servant of the Prince and will do whatever I like.

PRINCE Has the Prince himself any word in this?

MESSENGER (Surprised) Oh, your highness…they told me you’d left.

PRINCE Would you disrupt this good woman’s business because you were careless with your purse?

MESSENGER If it would please your highness for me to drop the matter…

PRINCE It does please his highness.

MESSENGER (Somewhat begrudgingly) Your father wants you back in London. There’s talk of rebellion.

PRINCE Any decent rebellion would await the outcome of a good drinking bout.

MESSENGER It’s quite serious, my liege. 14

PRINCE Isn’t everything? I’ll be along soon enough.

MESSENGER Your father wills that you accompany me.

PRINCE Come now, Lionel. Where are your manners? Can’t you see I haven’t been given leave by this true-bred lady of high station. (He looks at ANN. She is terrified.) Well, have I your leave?

ANN (Weakly) Yes.

PRINCE You are gracious.

FALSTAFF I’ll have a word with her, Hal. (FALSTAFF exits with the PRINCE.) She’s just in from Wales—the countryside.

ANN (Very uneasy) Who…who was he, really?

FIRST THIEF Exactly who he said, Miss, I’m afraid you’ve just met the Prince of Wales.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 15

ACT I

Scene 2

SETTING: The Royal Palace. KING HENRY IV is strutting around the stage trying to look as suitably regal as possible. He pauses and then begins a few words of a speech. He is addressing an imaginary audience.

KING Let us, then, resolve to embark on a new and more frugal era, embracing a solemn responsibility…

(QUEEN enters.)

QUEEN Oh, Henry, not another speech about your “frugal vision.” Pretty dry, Henry — dreary, if you ask me.

KING Which I didn’t. And I do not find a note of sobriety inappropriate for my office.

QUEEN Sobriety. Absolutely cheerless is the word. I’ve seen more hopeful expressions at the foot of the gallows.

KING They at least don’t have half the nobles in the kingdom trying to take their place. Look here. (Shows her parchment) Some poet from Stratford on Avon has quoted me as saying: “Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown”.

QUEEN Well, you make it sound like a yoke fit for one of the heavier oxen.

KING My supposed gloom is the only thing these minstrels ever sing about me. They call me a tightwad, a killjoy, a 16 dullard. The troubadours sing of it; the bards compose verse about it.

QUEEN You should pay them, dear — instead of so generously making them a part of your “frugal vision.”

If you want lavish praise Give them a raise If you want glory told Cough up some gold!

KING The other Kings were human, too.

There’s old King Edward a royal showman, A glory spendthrift with pomp to go An outrageous tax for each gilded ax Why can’t they sing about that?

QUEEN Because spendthrifts are in the habit of paying people.

KING I’ll pay no poet to sing my praises. I will do nothing that spending raises!

They sing of Arthur and his round table And his most skillful of knights so bold. Instead of a spear he tossed Guinevere. Why can’t they sing about that?

QUEEN What are you trying to say?

KING

With Guinevere he loved to dance a lot, and even more to use his lance a lot.

QUEEN Oh, my

KING The other kings… 17

They never fault them Or even doubt them Their troubadorin' Has raised their scorin' How much I would like to hear “Good job, Your Majesty.”

Another ruler was deemed so holy And I’m presuming the reason why This holiest Rex said grace before sex Why can’t they sing about that?

QUEEN For what he’s about to receive… Hard to believe!

KING In horizontal mode he sang in praises high. Now they never ask the reason why

My predecessor a king-size spender He wore the finest silk underwear His royal tush on a purple cushion Why can’t they sing about that?

QUEEN And what kind of undergarments do you wear, Henry?

KING Coarse woven! I even sit on my frugality.

QUEEN Now why can’t they sing about that?

KING

They sing of Richard the lion hearted He rode in echoing armor fine With thunder depart he often would …

QUEEN Oh, Henry!

KING Well, he must have.

QUEEN I trust he did it with royal authority. 18

KING Why can’t they sing about that?

QUEEN

A frugal vision Does not inspire them They call you duller A budget culler You’ve cut your staff to the bone, alone, Your Majesty

KING

Someday they’ll call me the Great Saint Miser A budget warrior with slashing pen A ruler divine, a great bottom line They’re sure to sing about that.

(MESSENGER enters. Underscore music continues for 55 seconds.)

MESSENGER Pardon, your majesty.

KING Well?

MESSENGER I found the Prince, your majesty. He’s dressing for court now and will be with you presently.

KING Found him, eh. Tell me, where was he this time?

MESSENGER In Eastcheap, my lord.

KING Eastcheap…Where in Eastcheap? What lowly company has he come into now?

MESSENGER He was in a tavern, your majesty—the Boar’s Head. 19

KING The Boar’s Head—the foulest contagion of thieves, whore- masters, and cut-throats in all England! The future king at the Boar’s Head! When the Prince has made himself presentable—if that is possible—send him to my chamber at once.

MESSENGER Yes, your majesty.

(MESSENGER exits)

KING I know you think there’s a bright side to everything. Then tell me one good thing about the Prince of Wales.

(QUEEN gestures, as if to make a point, then realizes she can’t think of anything.)

KING His reputation goes on before him It slightly staggers and then falls down He meets a bender with quick surrender I’m sure they’ll sing about Bring down the King about I’m sure they’ll sing about that!

(MESSENGER enters.)

MESSENGER Alfonse has requested audience.

KING Very well.

(ALFONSE enters. He carries a covered painting.)

ALFONSE An honor, Your Majesty

KING You’ve news regarding my wishes, I presume. 20

ALFONSE I do, Majesty. I must admit that when I first heard your wish that your son's union be blessed with such a considerable dowry, I had little hope of finding a suitable match. Miraculously, though, there is a wealthy merchant in South London who has always aspired to nobility. It also happens that he has never been able to arrange a suitable match for his eldest daughter.

KING I agree this sounds encouraging.

ALFONSE To begin with she has this most attractive solemn nature— a perfect balance for the temperament of the Prince which you described as “overly zealous.”

KING I used a less quotable word, but thank you for your diplomacy.

ALFONSE She is of strong character, as well, your majesty, with virtue that has never been challenged. I believe your son will benefit greatly from her maturity and steadfast nature. (PRINCE enters.) Ah, we have here the Prince of Wales?

KING Yes, the Prince of Wales.

ALFONSE How fortunate that you should arrive here just as I was about the reveal the charms of the Lady Isadora for the pleasure of the King and Queen. (He turns to the KING) Your Majesty, may the Prince be the first to see it?

KING (Uneasy) As you wish.

ALFONSE A special moment, my prince. Look first at her eyes — try to see the soul within. And know that she longs for the 21 look of pleasure in your eyes as you gaze on her for the very first time. (He stares at the PRINCE.)

KING You may show the painting at your pleasure, Alfonse.

ALFONSE Yes, of course. (To PRINCE) Are you ready?

PRINCE Quite ready.

ALFONSE (He reveals the painting.) There, my Prince. (PRINCE is clearly not impressed. Alfonse speaks to the KING.)

I did mention that her father agreed to the dowry you asked?

KING She is beautiful.

ALFONSE Does her countenance come as a pleasant surprise, my Prince.

PRINCE A surprise most certainly.

ALFONSE (Confidentially) And you will find her most eager. I know what young men think about. (He winks)

PRINCE I'm sure you don't know my mind quite so well.

ALFONSE Why, then, speak truthfully. You do have a say in this, I'm certain. 22

PRINCE I’m sure my father will make plans for me as he sees fit. As for the lady's soul, I'm sure it is beautiful — nature usually grants something.

KING Hal! You will show Alfonse due respect! (To ALFONS) For my thoughtless son I apologize. I'm certain it was but an ill-advised jest. Let us meet tomorrow — without the Prince of Wales. Before that time he will make amends.

ALFONSE I believe he should. (He exits)

KING In one breath you have probably destroyed an alliance that's taken months to cultivate.

PRINCE In the same breath I spared you the pain of having ugly grandchildren.

KING Only a fool marries for beauty. (QUEEN suddenly perks up. Henry speaks to himself) This may well be the worst day of my life.

QUEEN Well, my husband, which shall it be?

KING It is certain that I was — and am — rendered foolish by your beauty. But reason prevailed and I married you for your other fine qualities.

QUEEN Nicely done.

KING In any case, Hal, it's a prince's lot to marry for the good of his kingdom, not for the good of his… his whim. Your "companions" at the Boar's Head have corrupted your values 23

— as well as your manners — as well as your reputation — and mine!

PRINCE I envy every one of those companions who live as they want and marry whom they love.

KING And they do it in one of the worst ale-soaked, stench- ridden holes of inequity in all England! Is that what you would choose? Come to your senses! While I, King of England, spend my days in the sober business of state, you’re out gaming, drinking and in the company of the basest women imaginable!

PRINCE Who do you suppose had the better time?

KING Save your twisted wit for your drunken companions! As far as I'm concerned you can go back to them! Maybe you do belong there!

PRINCE Is that what you want?

KING For now I want you anyplace that's out of my sight!

(The court begins to assemble. A juggler and costumed jester walk toward the throne along with a romantically dressed troubadour.)

QUEEN Henry, you know you don’t mean that.

KING I most certainly… God’s blood! Who told my court to assemble? Who’s responsible for this?

QUEEN Control your temper!

KING 24

If you haven’t the slightest respect for your own person you should at least… (Turns to MESSENGER) Who called my court?

MESSENGER Why, it’s the festivities called by Alfonse. He said there was to be a celebration… (Looking around) Where is Alfonse?

KING Gone to Hell, I hope! This is an outrage!

QUEEN Henry, if you don’t lower your voice!

KING (To PRINCE) This is your fault, Prince of Wales!

(Two musicians with fixed smiles on their faces stand to the right of the King, a whimsical jester stands to his left and a troubadour stands immediately before him and starts singing.)

TROUBADOR In the glory days of King Richard…

(The KING strains to be an appreciative audience for a brief time as the QUEEN nonverbally works to keep his exploding rage contained. Finally he breaks.)

KING Out! Out! I’m in no humor for amusement! Go sing about this! (He takes a pin from the juggler and hits the TROUBADOR over the head with it. The performers scurry off. Some of the Court, mostly women, stand there in amazement.) God’s blood! (He exits.) 25

QUEEN (As she exits with the King, she turns to PRINCE.) Oh, Hal, this is so unnecessary.

(There is an embarrassed silence as PRINCE is left standing before the court. Everyone is looking at him.)

PRINCE The King seems to be upset.

(After PRINCE’S understatement, a few people in the court laugh. RUTHERFORD, the King’s advisor, is not so amused.)

RUTHERFORD I wish I could share their levity, my liege. Seeing England’s future imperiled is not my idea of a jest.

(RUTHERFORD and a couple of the other nobles walk off stage. A number of courtiers, who are Hal’s friends, and quite a number of women, remain on stage.)

Woman: Don’t take him to heart.

PRINCE Rest assured, I don’t.

Woman: Why do you do it, Hal?

PRINCE Why do I do it? Well, in short, it’s a case of too much health, too much appetite for life — and the fact that I can do practically anything and get away with it.

Woman: (Half-joking) I wonder if we should fear for England’s future?

PRINCE The truth? Not at all. I’ll not be so when I am King. When that day comes the small freedoms I enjoy now will be taken 26 away from me, one and all. And if I spend my present time wisely, I’ll be ready for that burden. For now, I freely admit that I have more appetite for life than most men — and far less time to satisfy it. If you will, it’s the last meal of a condemned man. I do not elect to be served porridge!

Good-bye to old convention ‘Cause it's a brand new day. Announcing my intention, Gonna live it all the way.

A life more alive. A new kind of drive I’ll seize every whim and make it flower, Exude in the mood a kind of power I’ll live the grand adventure.

No laws to abide A yearning inside Proclaim to the stars my restless spirit A glorious call, and all will hear it I’ll live the grand adventure

There’s only the now, so make it shine, Alive with the drive of greater passion so divine.

A dream to inspire A deep inner fire. I won’t miss the call, not now or ever. Embracing the flame, a new endeavor And choose the way of having it all.

Why live just one life when there’s a thousand… Know the freedom of a gypsy. Forge the most dangerous sea. Seek a fortune in travels brief. Feel the crafty tenseness of a thief…

Oh, yes, a thief. Know what it is to be unlike anything I’ve ever imagined. Live the danger… Hide in the shadows… a single mistake away from the gallows!

To live by my wits and conquer time, To gain in a year a wider wisdom so sublime.

To climb to the top 27

Beyond every stop And be first to see the brightest sunrise, The view of the day a noble won prize. I’ll live the grand adventure A glorious adventure! I’ll live the grand adventure for all! (BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 28

ACT I

Scene 3

SETTING: The forest. ANN and BELLE, a girl from the Boar’s Head, enter. ANN carries a folk harp or some other small musical instrument.

BELLE We shouldn’t be here, Miss.

ANN We’ll be fine.

BELLE In these parts no woman ventures into the woods alone.

ANN I’m not alone.

BELLE I’d not have any interest in your nature spirits.

ANN Hold these. (Hands her some magical-looking items)

BELLE Are you a witch?

ANN Of course not. These are just gifts to let the spirits know they are welcome.

BELLE Now that surely sounds like witchcraft to me!

ANN No, not witchcraft. It’s just a way to find guidance through spirits that are pure and kind. It’s just a song, Belle. A song to open you — show you what’s in your heart. 29

BELLE Witchcraft — just as I thought. Just by my being here, I am endangered. So, if this is a spell—I’m not saying I approve--but if it is, do you not think I should have something in return?

ANN I’m not sure I understand.

BELLE Well, perhaps while you work some magic for yourself, you might work a bit of magic on my behalf — perhaps about my gaining a strong, handsome husband? One with good teeth.

ANN (Smiles) I’d be glad to. If you’d feel better you can wait off in a safe distance — where no demons can grab you.

BELLE Uh, no. I’ll trust you know what you’re doing.

ANN Now it is important that we remain very silent.

(She begins to play a small harp or some other instrument. After a while she speaks.)

Spirits of the trees and the brook and the sky, bring reaching sight to my soul and my eye Sprites of the rocks and the hills and the stream. show me my heart and my quest and my dream.

(ANN sings)

In the hush Quiet sky There lies tomorrow Only a sigh. Hopes can fade or fly.

Dream far, beyond a waiting star, Only a dream can fly there 30

For a moment’s prayer.

One song can reach so very far, Touching a land of somewhere That no one can see.

Reaching, to find the woodland soul. Reaching, for every brook and knoll, A magic call through the trees so tall.

Then feel a million twilight fires Bursting to dawn inside you With a hope that’s new Embrace your waiting star.

BELLE Ann, how does the magic work?

ANN The magic works when the dream becomes more real than anything else. There’s no witchcraft—only love. I really can’t tell you how it happens. All I know is that you feel it so deeply inside that it becomes real.

Then feel a million twilight fires Bursting to dawn inside you With a hope that’s new Embrace your waiting star.

(After the song, PRINCE enters.)

BELLE My word! What a handsome one! By the saints, I’ve never seen a spell work so quickly.

ANN I didn’t… It wasn’t that kind of spell.

PRINCE I’m sorry the Spirit of the Brook couldn’t appear in person. He asked me to come in his place. I hope you’re not too disappointed.

BELLE It’s you. You’re Prince Hal! 31

PRINCE (Laughs) Guilty on both counts.

(BELLE whispers to ANN.)

BELLE Mind you, if you don’t want him, I’ll take him.

ANN It’s NOT that kind of a spell.

BELLE Don’t you know who he is? He’s the Prince of Wales.

ANN We’ve met. (Formally, to the PRINCE) To what do we owe the honor of this visit, my lord.

PRINCE I was strangely drawn to this place. You mean you didn’t summon me?

BELLE You see!

ANN Hush, Belle, he’s just playing us for fools. Your highness, I apologize for my not knowing who you were the other evening. I had just arrived here.

PRINCE There’s no need for apology.

ANN You are gracious. Then the matter is settled?

PRINCE Quite settled.

(ANN Picks up the harp and summons BELLE to follow.)

ANN Good. 32

PRINCE Well, not completely settled.

ANN Oh?

PRINCE Not if it means the end of our pleasant conversation.

ANN Do we have something to discuss?

PRINCE Yes. My admiration. (ANN looks at him very skeptically. BELLE is intrigued.) I mean it. I sense you’re different.

ANN (More to BELLE than to Hal) Why do I keep hearing that?

PRINCE For one thing, you stood up to me. I like that.

ANN I didn’t know you were the Prince of Wales.

PRINCE That’s something my friends at the Boar’s Head forget in a very short time.

ANN You’re the King’s son. Do you think anyone is going to forget that?

PRINCE Why, of course, they do. You’ll see.

ANN Tell me, your highness, have you ever told a joke at the Boar’s Head that didn’t produce great laughter?

PRINCE Why, I enjoy a laugh as much as the next man. Why not? 33

ANN No, you don’t understand my question. Has anyone dared NOT to laugh at your jokes? (PRINCE is silent.) Has a man or woman ever refused to share your table? Have you ever been asked to leave because you were rude?

BELLE (Shocked) You must not say…

PRINCE (Laughs) If you were there you wouldn’t even ask those questions. I’m treated just like anyone else. Why, you’re the proof of that yourself! You had no difficulty speaking your mind.

ANN In your first words today you mocked my belief in the good spirits. If you were anybody other than a Prince I would have given you the answer you deserved.

PRINCE I was only joking. You should have laughed.

BELLE (To ANN) It was kind of funny… what he said.

ANN If your highness commands me to laugh, I will.

PRINCE I wish you would stop calling me “your highness.”

ANN (With irritating obedience) As you wish.

BELLE Oh, no…

PRINCE (Suddenly very reasonable.) I would consider it a favor if you would be honest with me. 34

ANN Oh?

PRINCE I’m asking you as an equal. Speak to me as you would any other man.

BELLE (To ANN) Please don’t.

ANN The Prince has asked it as a favor. (To PRINCE.) You may recall that I was honest with you the other night – even without your permission. You were playing commoner at the time. I suppose your rudeness can be forgiven. Today, though, it’s a different story. You walked into a sacred place and not only interrupted my song, but proceeded to mock me and the powerful spirits of the forest.

PRINCE If they were so all powerful, and if I offended them so much, why didn’t they strike me down with a lightning bolt? In fact, I invite them to do so this very moment. (He pauses and waits. Nothing happens.)

ANN Why should the spirits waste a lightning bolt, my lord? They have only to wait for your next drinking bout and watch you fall down on your own. (PRINCE looks at her with anger.) You DID ask for honesty, my lord — as a favor. Remember?

PRINCE You have tread on my kindness and courtesy! What manner of… You who come to the Boar’s Head! So far above all the rest of us! I didn't realize the Boar's Head was becoming a convent.

ANN What do you mean by that? 35

BELLE Ann, you can’t blame him. Most of the ladies of the Boar’s Head are either cleaning ladies or… And you don’t look like a cleaning lady.

ANN (Walking toward PRINCE) Who do you think I am? What do you think I am? Don’t you ever… You want honesty? I happen to be a lady and don’t you ever forget it. (She strikes him so hard that Hal almost falls to the ground. BELLE screams and ANN suddenly realizes what she’s done.) Oh! (She and BELLE run off.)

PRINCE (Furious) I’ll have you know it’s treason to strike the person of a prince! This will not be forgotten.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 36

ACT I

Scene 4

SETTING: The Boar's Head Tavern

FIRST THIEF What time’s it gettin’ to be?

SECOND THIEF I’d judge it’s but a few hours ‘til sunset.

FIRST THIEF Still no sign of ol’ Jack — must have had himself quite a night!

SECOND THIEF Maybe it killed him.

FIRST THIEF Think so? I doubt if he even got a start. Right now I’ll wager you he’s in his room gettin’ ready a story for us.

SECOND THIEF Well, that wench was no story. Say, you don’t suppose she bought ol’ Jack’s line about credit?

FIRST THIEF Maybe.

SECOND THIEF Psst. It’s him. There’s no other footsteps like those.

(FALSTAFF appears, gives a gigantic yawn and walks into the room.)

FIRST THIEF He lives! He lives! (The thieves applaud.)

SECOND THIEF Risen twice in a day! 37

FIRST THIEF Ha, more wishin’ than risen. Hey, Jack, how much did that night of wishful thinkin’ cost you?

SECOND THIEF God willin’ she didn’t charge him by the pound!

FALSTAFF What? Do you rogues take the lady for a whore? Why, the lady is me own…

FIRST THIEF (Winks at the others) Here it comes. (To FALSTAFF) I know, Jack, she took one look at you and fell in love. (The thieves laugh.) For you ’tis free!

SECOND THIEF Come on, Jack, how much?

FALSTAFF How much? A base question! As if Jack Falstaff ever had to buy the favors of a woman!

SECOND THIEF Well, I doubt you’d catch one on the run — though I’d pay half a crown to watch you in chase!

FIRST THIEF (Melodramatic) The earth would quake, the wind would break! (The thieves laugh.)

FALSTAFF Idlers! Half men! What would you know of a true lady’s desire — you with the form of an eel and the mating habits of a quick winded rabbit in heat! You know nothing! A real woman knows a full-sized man is a full livin’ man… A proud man — the first to be seen at a distance; a brave man — the largest target in battle; a vital man — the strongest appetite, the stoutest arm; a defiant man — darin’ to take twice the space of another; a virile man… 38

(MISTRESS QUICKLY enters.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Out, Sir John, out! you’ll remove yourself right now!

FALSTAFF Why, Mistress, you can’t mean… I’ve done nothing!

MISTRESS QUICKLY That’s exactly right! You’ve done nothing! You pay nothing! Francis told me you’ve moved a wench in with you. Now, you’ll tell me if that be true or not.

FALSTAFF Lady, lady — the woman upstairs is my own… my own… scant recompense for the scorn you’ve shown me. (The thieves smile and nudge one another.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Scorn? Me scorn you?

FALSTAFF 'Tis true. You’ve wounded me grievous. Why this was my way of provin’ I’m yet a desirable man.

MISTRESS QUICKLY You’d take up with another woman because you could not have me?

FALSTAFF Why, I was wounded to the quick. Lady, when a man falls in battle, he must rise and press forward or he’ll never rise again. When a man falls from his horse he must either mount another… (The thieves break up laughing) Rogues! Was a metaphor — a comparison!

MISTRESS QUICKLY You take me for a fool, Sir John, and I’ll not have it. (Calls out) Francis! Francis! (Tavern Server appears) I’ll have his every belonging carried into the road. Right now, Francis, you hear me? This very minute! 39

FALSTAFF Mistress… Mistress.

(MISTRESS QUICKLY goes off stage and, with tavern server, begins carrying out his belongings. There are some sight gags as we see what FALSTAFF owns. ANN enters.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY You’d dare to show your face in full light of day!

ANN (Runs to FALSTAFF.) I’ve got to leave right away. Oh, there’s no time. (She runs into the room) My clothes, where are they? What’s going on here?

FALSTAFF (Fumbling) We’re… changing rooms.

ANN (Sees some of her clothes being carried out) Oh, no, I need this. (To FALSTAFF) I won’t cause you any more trouble, I promise. (She scurries off) Where are my clothes?

FALSTAFF By my truth, lass, what have you done?

ANN I lost my mind! I was still under the influence of the spirits. I struck the Prince!

FALSTAFF Struck him? Why, I’ll wager he deserved no less. If he’s laid a hand on you, I’ll sue him for a king’s ransom.

ANN No, no… it was nothing like that. It was a mistake to come here. I’ve got to go home. 40

MISTRESS QUICKLY Mistake! It was more than a mistake. You can take his flea- bitten carcass with you. I’m through with him! (To TAVERN SERVER) Don’t stop and gawk, Francis — move the rogue out!

TAVERN SERVER: Yes, mum.

ANN What’s happened?

FALSTAFF A slight misunderstanding, lass, nothing more. (ANN goes off stage.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Slight misunderstanding! You call sixteen shillings a slight misunderstanding!

FALSTAFF Mistress, Mistress — by the Lord’s own mercy…

MISTRESS QUICKLY Francis! Proceed!

(PRINCE enters)

FALSTAFF Good Mistress… Ah, Hal! Hal… a word with you, Hal. The woman’s made a claim I haven’t paid the rent — and ’tis somewhat true — only a pittance, Hal. A token not even worth a tenth — a hundredth — of our friendship. No matter of discussion between friends.

PRINCE Good Mistress. (MISTRESS QUICKLY goes about her raging back and forth with FALSTAFF’S belongings.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Lying, disreputable… (etc. etc.)

PRINCE Mistress. 41

MISTRESS QUICKLY I’m sorry for the state of me humors. The man’s played me for the fool.

PRINCE How much does he owe?

MISTRESS QUICKLY He owes me everything! My kindness alone stood between him and the cold of the night. He’s a scoundrel! No money will set it right!

PRINCE (To FALSTAFF) This sounds like no mere pittance to me, Jack.

FALSTAFF Consider myself in your debt, Hal. Any time I can serve you…

PRINCE As a matter of fact, there is. There’s a girl I saw you talking with last night — the new one — I’ll have some words with her.

FALSTAFF Why, Hal — has she wronged you?

PRINCE Yes, she has.

FALSTAFF Why, then, she must be punished, but Hal, a young girl….

PRINCE No, you clay brain, it’s nothing like that — there’s no cause for punishment.

FALSTAFF How now? Is not striking a prince a…

PRINCE And what do you know of that? 42

FALSTAFF Why, Hal, you spoke of a wrong… I assumed… you said…

PRINCE I said nothing of being struck. You have seen her. Now where is she?

FALSTAFF Hal, do you ever wonder who she is?

PRINCE That doesn’t interest me at the moment. I want to know where she is.

FALSTAFF Why…

PRINCE Where, Jack?

FALSTAFF (After a pause) I’ll bring her to you, Hal.

PRINCE And what’s your connection with her, anyway?

FALSTAFF (Stumbling) Honorable, Hal… honorable. (FALSTAFF exits.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Well, it makes no difference to me — out he goes all the same!

PRINCE Hush! In whatever way he’s wronged you, I’ll make it right.

(His intensity causes a complete quiet on the stage. Falstaff shows Ann into the room. Ann and the Prince look at each other for a long time.) 43

Friends, I’d like to speak to the lady alone. Please. (The others leave in bewilderment. FALSTAFF and the thieves soon reappear. Having gone into hiding, once in a while they peer out at ANN and the PRINCE.) Well, my lady, you must know that to strike a member of the royal family is legally speaking an act of treason.

ANN (Weakly) Yes.

PRINCE Are you even vaguely curious about the penalty for treason? (ANN is silent) Well, the usual is drawing and quartering. But if there are extenuating circumstances and we choose to be lenient — we sometimes let them off with a simple beheading. Of course, you have such a pretty neck… What are we doing to do with you?

(ANN, moving closer to him as though she was about to plead, suddenly seizes his sword and holds it to his chest.)

PRINCE What?

ANN Don’t move—not one step! You hear me? Not a step!

PRINCE You will immediately…

ANN I said don’t move. I may as well use this — there’s nothing more you can do to me anyway. It might even make me happy!

PRINCE You don’t think I was serious?

ANN Oh, I see — another prank. Is that it?

PRINCE What do you think? 44

ANN Well, isn’t it funny — I’m taking it so to heart that I just may run this sword through you! Then everybody can have a good laugh! Poor naive girl — was she ever taken in!

PRINCE All right, that’s enough.

ANN I’m warning you!

PRINCE Would you put that thing down. If somebody sees this…

(FALSTAFF and the two thieves begin shaking from contained laughter as they watch from their hiding place.)

ANN You’ve got a lot more to worry about than that. What if I’m crazed in the head— mad! Maybe I’ll only feel safe now if you’re dead!

PRINCE (Sensing that ANN is playing a game.) Say, you’re pretty good at this.

ANN Don’t test me.

PRINCE Well, then, just what do you intend to do?

ANN I don’t know. But I’ll start by telling you this — no matter where I stay, how much money I have, or anything else, I was raised a lady and I’ll always be a lady.

PRINCE If I didn’t know that I wouldn’t be here.

ANN Then you can promise me there’ll be no charge of treason.

PRINCE No. 45

ANN What?

PRINCE I don’t make promises at sword point. (They look into each other’s eyes for a while.)

ANN You already said you were joking.

PRINCE So I did.

ANN Then if you… (PRINCE suddenly takes the sword from her and Ann cowers back.)

PRINCE Much much better this way. Now about that promise — you have it. (Pauses. He hands her the sword.) Do you still want this? (She doesn’t take it.) I’m sure you’ll learn not to take my nature quite so to heart. I like a laugh to be shared all the way around.

ANN I’ve already told you, you’re the prince. Of course people are going to laugh at your pranks.

PRINCE (Laughs) Oh, I see — fear of royal disfavor! My lady, here nobody thinks of me as a Prince and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Learn to laugh a bit. Maybe I can teach you to enjoy a good jest now and then. You do have the talent for it.

ANN Why do you say that?

PRINCE Why, the way you handled yourself just now — that was masterful! You almost had me worried for a while. 46

ANN Almost had you worried!

PRINCE Yes, and I suspect you secretly enjoyed it. Come on, now, didn’t you?

ANN (Begins to smile) I think you were frightened out of your wits.

PRINCE Well, I had to let you think so. (ANN almost laughs at him.) There, you see, you do have a sense of sport.

ANN I don’t suppose many maidens have held a Prince at sword point!

PRINCE True. Not a Prince — Just a fellow at the Boar’s Head. The fact is by the time people finish their first drink with me they forget all about the accident of my birth. Now I think it’s about time we had ours!

ANN (Pauses) Thank you, my lord, but no, I don’t think so.

PRINCE You’re refusing me?

ANN I think that’s what “no” means. (PRINCE is clearly thrown off guard.) Well, you don’t want to be regarded as a Prince. Real men are refused every day.

PRINCE (Arrogantly) I’m not. 47

ANN Then maybe the laughable idea of people wanting your royal favor really is true. If you want to spend some time with me, why don’t you try doing something clever or maybe write a poem for me?

PRINCE You’ve just about reached the limit! I suggest…

ANN Excuse me, your highness, but your royalty’s showing.

(She smiles at him too cutely then exits. PRINCE storms off by another exit, slamming the door. FALSTAFF and the thieves come out of hiding.)

FALSTAFF Ha, did you see her teach the Prince some manners! There’s breeding! There’s spirit. There’s wit and courage all in one pretty package!

FIRST THIEF An’ the Prince is taken with her! Looks like you have a rival there, Jack. That thin Prince!

FALSTAFF Have you rogues never seen a lady? Does she look the sort to be a thief’s mistress in a pauper’s tavern? (He pauses, then speaks with pride.) She’s my daughter.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 48

ACT I

Scene 5

SETTING: A room in a manor house. HOTSPUR, WORCESTER and NORTHUMBERLAND ARE in the midst of a serious discussion as they enter.

WORCESTER It’s far worse than you think, Harry.

HOTSPUR I’ve heard the rumors.

WORCESTER I only wish they were rumors, Harry. But we were there— we’ve seen the drunken brawls… the lowly companions. And now he has reached a new low. It seems he is under the spell of a common harlot – and a practitioner of the black arts, as well.

NORTHUMBERLAND I’m not sure she is a…

WORCESTER Of course she is. Look at her parentage, what else could she be?

HOTSPUR If this is true…

WORCESTER Then she could be England’s future queen. What we know for certain that she is the illegitimate daughter of a disgraced ex-knight– a certain Jack Falstaff—an ale-soaked, fleshy mountain of a man who has become the prince’s favorite companion.

HOTSPUR You know this for certain? 49

WORCESTER It is common knowledge.

HOTSPUR This “tavern prince” has already lost the regard of all honorable men. They will never allow him to be king.

NORTHUMBERLAND They?

WORCESTER In every great movement, Harry, someone must be the first to come forward.

NORTHUMBERLAND Someone who is seen as brave, honorable… of the right lineage.

WORCESTER Some regard him as the hope of England’s future.

HOTSPUR A King rules by God's will — a fact I do not take lightly.

WORCESTER Is it also God's will that the glory of our land be slowly eroded by shameful misrule? (HOTSPUR is silent.) When God's will is at cross purpose, Harry, there is a place for action.

NORTHUMBERLAND Join us, Harry. When you act, others will follow.

WORCESTER As one who loves the honor of our land, I must ask you a pointed question: If it were proven to you, beyond all doubt, that this Prince is dangerously unfit to rule… (He deliberately stops speaking.)

HOTSPUR Would I be party to treason? 50

WORCESTER Is it treason to save your country?

HOTSPUR I would not take such action casually, nor would I allow my kingdom to suffer misrule if it were in my capacity to prevent it. I’ll say no more. Stay well. (He exits.)

WORCESTER He is with us. The seed is fertile and the soil rich. I see good days ahead. In a fortnight is the Festival of Michaelmas. I’ll see that Hotspur, Falstaff and the prince and his “lady”are there.

NORTHUMBERLAND Apparently you have a plan.

WORCESTER One in which I take considerable pride.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 51

ACT I

Scene 6

SETTING: Outdoors near the washing well. ANN sits near the well looking dreamily at a letter. Some laundry sits in a basket nearby . MISTRESS QUICKLY and a couple other women then enter.

MISTRESS QUICKLY Well, well well, another love sonnet from a certain admirer! (Embarrassed, ANN quickly hides the letter.) Now, it’s a little late for that. What's he sayin' this time?

ANN The usual. My eyes are the loveliest he's ever seen. My voice reaches to his heart. I'm the ONLY one he's ever said all this to. This week.

MISTRESS QUICKLY Well, the lad's no saint, Miss. But just so you know, you're the first and only one to get the sonnets 'n' flowers. (ANN looks a little surprised.) And he’s surely not dallying about.

BELLE Maybe he’s just tired. Perhaps someone’s worn him out!

(ANN splashes some water on her.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Now, since you're feeling so frisky; perhaps you'd care to splash some of that water on the clothes and bedding as you're being paid to do!

(ANN begins washing the clothes while the others gather up the clothes that were drying) 52

ANN Well, if nothing else, I have taught him some manners.

MISTRESS QUICKLY And you do like him, don’t you?

ANN Like him? I think he’s arrogant and smug. Why would you ask me that?

(Underscore begins)

MISTRESS QUICKLY (Laughs) I’m sorry, miss. I’ve seen how you look when he’s around.

BELLE A little dreamy.

MISTRESS QUICKLY A little shy.

BELLE I’d say extremely

MISTRESS QUICKLY We all know why

Just a hint, A softer glance that lasts a while. Just a hint, A tiny touch of shyness in your smile. A light in your eyes. You know it. Just a little hint, Just a little hint Of love on the way

Just a hint, A little softness in your voice. Just a hint A slightly dreamy sigh proclaims your choice. You start at his name. You know it. Just a little hint, 53

Just a little hint of love on the way

Deny it, Deny it, Plain enough to see, Plain enough to see What’s to be, trust me.

Just a look, That special moment when you’re near. Just a look In loving eyes so deep you disappear. The world all is new. You know it. Just a little hint, Just a little hint Of love on the way. Love on the way.

(At the end of the song, MELISSA, a blind half-mad outcast, enters, picks up a basket and deposits a few coins in its place.)

FIRST WOMAN Stay a while, it's her.

BELLE I'd forgotten — 'tis her day.

ANN Who is she?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Hush! Say nothing to provoke her.

(They conspicuously work without saying a word. MELISSA then turns their way and stares at Ann through sightless eyes.)

MELISSA There is one among you who shall seek me. Which be you? (Silence) A young soul from the woods of a land far away I hear. (The women look at ANN.) 54

She knows who she is!

MISTRESS QUICKLY She cannot see you—say nothing!

MELISSA You come to destiny's crossroads — flames do I see — I bring a warning. (There is a frightened silence) Soon you will seek me. (She exits.)

ANN Who was she?

MISTRESS QUICKLY A crazed woman and nothin' more.

BELLE She's touched by the devil — that one is — hears voices of the future.

MISTRESS QUICKLY She raves and says nothing. Pay her no heed.

ANN How did she know who I was?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Who says she did? Ann… a lot of empty words—forget 'em.

ANN Where does she come from?

BELLE It's a strange solitary life she lives— in a horrible small cottage by the edge of the forest — where she can hear her voices.

MISTRESS QUICKLY She’s not in possession of her senses. She was cast off years ago. Each month she comes here to the edge of town to pick up those earthy things she needs. 55

BELLE They’re all afraid of her and that’s the truth! That’s why they leave her the food — they’re afraid of her curse!

MISTRESS QUICKLY It’s charity and nothing more.

ANN Does she truly have the sight?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Forget her, child. The woman's an outcast—crazed and of no use to any livin' soul. Now, if you're to earn your keep as you promised, do a bit more paddlin' and a bit less prying into things that can do you no good. (The other women have already left and MISTRESS QUICKLY also begins to exit.) Well, tarry not.

(MISTRESS QUICKLY and the others exit. BELLE is the only one who remains on stage with Ann.)

BELLE And now, speakin' of magic…

ANN Oh, Belle, not again.

BELLE Now, even though I well realize you are NOT a witch I still wish to ask you about the sachet filled with valerian root and lavender. It's said such a mixture can draw the man of your dreams to you.

ANN What makes you think I know anything about that?

BELLE Please, me lady, you promised to share with me. It's said to be a well known potion. After all, the Prince… why, he's spellbound with you — poems, flowers… 56

ANN You think I cast a spell on the prince! Well, I didn't. I don't want his attention. All he's done is make problems for me.

BELLE If not by a potion, then how? Please, Miss, I only want a little happiness in my life.

ANN Then why do you want a man?

BELLE Well, not just any man. One strong, handsome man who will love and care for me.

ANN Belle, I truly do not know anything about magic potions. I know that's hard for you to believe. But the first rule of all magic is to know what you truly want; to see it clearly before you. If you wish for a husband, you must know even the little things about him: What makes him laugh? What does he dream? What makes him different from every other man.

BELLE Well, how would I know that if I've never met him?

(Start Underscore: “Just a Hint” 65 seconds)

ANN You see him in your imagination. You don't just see an “idea” you see a handsome, real man with eyes that sparkle with a kind of mischief — you look in them and see a thousand untold surprises, a kind of mystery. He is someone new with you — someone bursting into expression through sonnets and great thoughts — a desire to be everything glorious and right that God intended. You spend quiet moments together and share a secret happiness only the two of you can understand. There is a light that shines only for you. (As ANN becomes more and more dreamily involved in her description of the perfect man, PRINCE enters quietly in the 57

background. BELLE sees him, ANN does not. He motions to BELLE to remain silent and he walks a little closer to hear what ANN is saying.) But it's not all like that. He sometimes has a way of maddening you, but you love him the more for it. There's so much you still don't know about him. And, God forbid, he must never know how you really feel. You hide it from him; yet you also wish that those deep intelligent eyes will see everything that is in your heart.

(At this point ANN is pulled out of her dream world when she notices BELLE looking at PRINCE. She is startled.)

BELLE Pardon, Miss, I think that particular wish was just granted. (She laughs.)

ANN (To the PRINCE) We… were just discussing the man… Belle is in love with. I was describing him.

BELLE And you did so most beautifully. Why, I feel like I already know him! (Well aware of the joke she is now a part of, she smiles at the two of them and exits.)

ANN (Nervously) Belle… (Laughs awkwardly) I read your sonnet, your highness. It was very beautiful.

PRINCE Perhaps you find it expresses a new light I've found inside.

ANN If you've the monumental conceit to think I was talking about you just now… Well, if you're going to eavesdrop, you 58 should try to hear everything… then you wouldn't get the wrong idea.

PRINCE I'm so sorry I was mistaken.

ANN Good. Your apology is accepted. Anyway, the man I was describing — for Belle — could only love one woman. With your proud appetite for new adventures I can’t imagine you staying happily loyal to anyone.

PRINCE Maybe you’re wrong. Ann, you say I have an appetite for new adventures. That’s true. I do want it all. But what if there was a place — a place offering the grandest adventure of all — one that was forbidden to all but a rare, privileged few.

ANN (Lightly) Privileged few? That sounds like someone I know.

PRINCE I’m afraid my title doesn’t help me much here. No, this is a different kind of place. You can’t go there alone and you’ll never see it if you have any doubt at all. It’s death to the half-hearted!

ANN And you think you could love someone that much?

PRINCE Yes.

ANN And you can’t go there alone?

PRINCE Absolutely impossible.

ANN Well, I truly hope you’ll find someone who feels the same way. (She starts to walk off.) 59

PRINCE No, Ann. Not this time. (Pauses and looks at her intently.) Maybe I have.

A secret lock that has no key Rare love can open if true. No pretending Or defending And it only opens for two.

One place you can’t go alone, It faintly resembles this world. All of a sudden there’s gold in the sunset, Light in the stars Two eyes, twice the wonder, Two hearts, twice the dream.

I’ll always go there with you. There’s no other way it can be. In this new land there is more to see, One place you can’t go alone,

At the end of the song’s first verse, the Prince comes very close to kissing Ann. She is a little hesitant.

PRINCE You must know that I love you.

ANN I want to believe you.

PRINCE Imagine I could give you any proof you needed?

ANN Proof?

PRINCE Yes, proof that I love you. Ask anything!

ANN I wouldn’t need proof. If you ever love me — truly love me — I’ll know it. (After a pause.) Hal, I do know it. I’ve known for a long time. 60

(They kiss for the first time, then ANN sings a second verse of the song.)

ANN

Abandon the fear inside And move into something so true. All of a sudden there’s warmth all around you, There in the light.

It’s all seven wonders, Dimensions anew.

Ann and Prince Hal

I’ll only go there with you. There’s no other way it can be. In this new land there is more to see,

One place you can’t go alone, One place you can’t go alone.

(MESSENGER enters awkwardly.)

PRINCE Well?

MESSENGER I’m sorry, my liege. Lord Rutherford has requested audience with you presently. It seems important.

ANN It’s all right.

PRINCE Let’s remember where we left off.

(PRINCE kisses her lightly and exits with the MESSENGER. ANN sits down on the side of the washing well and dreamily reads Prince Hal’s poem.)

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 61

ACT I

Scene 7

SETTING: The Boar’s Head Tavern. FALSTAFF, looking full and much too content, is dozing before a platter of food. MISTRESS QUICKLY enters. She knocks FALSTAFF’S elbow out from under him and his face falls in his platter.

FALSTAFF How now?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Francis tells me you’ve no means to pay for your supper — again!

FALSTAFF Why, the lad’s turned rougish! I’ve the full amount and will pay you this moment. (He pulls out his purse and inspects it.) What! Empty! Why the vile lad stole from me as I slept!

MISTRESS QUICKLY As I expected! You’ll not go spinnin’ any more tales of thieves in my fine house, Sir John. You ‘n’ I both know the truth of the matter, an’ what you’re going to do this very moment is to PAY for your meals — if not in cash, then through honest labor. Now, its out back you go to chop wood!

FALSTAFF Would be my death! Cannot you tell I was molded by God for a gentle life.

MISTRESS QUICKLY You were molded by capons, mutton, ale, and bread, Sir John — and most of that from me own pantry. (Falstaff looks as though he’s preparing his next line. MISTRESS QUICKLY calls out to her helpers.) Kindly escort our noble guest to the woodpile!

(The servants begin lifting FALSTAFF out of his chair, over his loud protests. At this 62

point the door opens and Lord WORCESTER enters. His noble dress and stately manner quickly subdue the scene.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY Oh, my lord. I’m sorry. (WORCESTER looks at her sharply.) Please be seated, my lord. We’ll tend to you at once. (Looking at FALSTAFF) As soon as we clear the room of a parasite.

FALSTAFF See how your coarse manners have offended the gentleman.

MISTRESS QUICKLY The gentleman should appreciate the improvement I'm about to make. Come along, Sir John.

WORCESTER Stay a moment. I’ll have some words with him. What is his offense?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Why he wears his offense right before him — right there! I stuffed that great belly and he’s the nerve to pay me in promises.

WORCESTER Is the word of a gentleman not honored here?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Gentleman!

WORCESTER Would you accept my payment for his debt?

MISTRESS QUICKLY You want to pay his debt?

WORCESTER In coin, Mistress.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I’m not sure I understand; but yes, I’d be honored to accept your… 63

WORCESTER Then it is done.

FALSTAFF I’m indebted to you, my lord.

WORCESTER Will you stay and share some wine with me?

FALSTAFF (He laughs and they sit down.) Mistress, your finest for my friend and me.

MISTRESS QUICKLY You’ve done it again — scalawag! (She and the servants go off stage.)

FALSTAFF Times are bad when men of our station must brook such treatment, are they not, my lord?

WORCESTER It seems I came along at the right time.

FALSTAFF That you did and I’m grateful. ‘Sblood… a man of my age and constitution should be resting by a manor fireside, tended by a maid… An’ if there were justice that would be the case.

WORCESTER You’ve chanced on the reason for my visit, Sir John. I happen to know how your family lost its estates.

FALSTAFF A long time ago, my lord. But, ‘tis true — I am rightly called “Sir John.” A curse on politics! An ungrateful King and his favoritism for an upstart noble — that’s why I was denied my birthright.

WORCESTER There are some who wish to see justice done.

FALSTAFF “Justice?” I’m not used to hearin' that spoken to me in a friendly way. 64

WORCESTER I also care about the stability of the crown. And this brings us to the subject of your daughter.

FALSTAFF Ah, her and the prince.

WORCESTER Precisely. I’ll be frank with you, Sir John. The ways of this madcap prince are well known and he has flatly said that he will never marry for political reasons.

FALSTAFF True, he is headstrong.

WORCESTER He needs to be married, and I've wondered if your daughter might be the solution.

FALSTAFF (Stunned) Why, ‘tis impossible!

WORCESTER It’s true that he cannot marry a commoner. But he could marry the daughter of a rightfully restored baron.

FALSTAFF So if my estate was restored…

WORCESTER Precisely.

FALSTAFF (Drinks another cup of ale) My daughter… my daughter the future…

WORCESTER Afraid to say it, Sir John?

FALSTAFF Ha, I knew that girl would be my salvation! 65

WORCESTER Of course, my lord, some will oppose us, but it is for the good of England. Of course, I must have your loyalty and cooperation. And I trust you will remember me generously in the future.

FALSTAFF Of course.

WORCESTER First off, you must make ready for your appearance at court — the festival of Michaelmas would be the perfect time. Purchase some clothes befitting a landed noble. I will escort you and your daughter, personally.

FALSTAFF (Awkwardly) Clothes fit for a noble, my lord? 'Tis a wonderful idea, I must admit, but…

WORCESTER Do me the honor of accepting this for now. There will be more. (He hands FALSTAFF, who is now stunned, a full purse.)

FALSTAFF My lord, I don’t know what to say…

WORCESTER You’ve much to make ready. Well, then, Sir John… until the festival. (He exits.)

FALSTAFF Until then. Thank you, my lord. (FALSTAFF sits down dumbfounded.) Could it be? A noble? Lord of a manor? The most powerful man in all Eastcheap! Father of a princess! Ha, I fathered that girl on sheer instinct! A moment of pleasure twenty years ago has done more good than fifty-five years of schemes and thievery! Ha, how the wheel does turn! 66

(He begins singing “At the Turn of Fortune’s Wheel” and others in the tavern join in. As the musical number proceeds, the others bring FALSTAFF an elaborate hat, cape and other trimmings. He transforms into an outrageously overdressed, overstuffed buffoon, but his joyousness is contagious.)

At the turn of fortune's wheel I'll be ready to shine. Gonna add some polish. Gonna make it mine. Gonna glow with luster And manners fine.

At the turn of fortune’s wheel I’ll be right in my prime. Gonna raise the standard. Gonna set the rhyme. Gonna reach that hard-to-get-to paragon of time.

A quirky old fate To now celebrate, To celebrate my grand fortune found.

The turn of a life, At once, no more strife. We’re now on a merrier road.

At the turn of fortune's wheel I'll be setting the pace. Gonna raise that tankard. Gonna win the race. Gonna walk that bright new, road true, feel it turnin' my way.

Off to the side of the stage a spotlight falls on WORCESTER, NORTHUMBERLAND and HOTSPUR.

WORCESTER You should have seen the old fool! He accepted the idea of his nobility as though it were his birthright. Soon you’ll see the most comic hour ever to end a King’s rule. 67

NORTHUMBERLAND And so ends the sorriest chapter in England’s history.

HOTSPUR To England’s new day.

(The spotlight shifts to the other side of the stage where ANN and PRINCE are now standing.)

PRINCE Of course it’s a trap. But we’ll make it turn on them. We’ll go to the festival and they will love you.

(Everyone on stage sings a final round of “At the Turn of Fortune’s Wheel.”)

A quirky old fate To now celebrate, To celebrate my grand fortune found.

The turn of a life, At once, no more strife We’re now on a merrier road.

At the turn of fortune's wheel I'll be setting the pace. Gonna raise that tankard. Gonna win the race. Gonna walk that bright new, road true, feel it turnin' my way.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE)

68

ACT II

Scene 1

SETTING: The Royal Palace. Dance music plays under. PRINCE is dancing with ANN and they are viewed with great interest. The KING and QUEEN watch from their throne.

KING A tavern girl! The spite! How could Hal do this to me!

QUEEN His attention is quite completely on her, Henry. Doing something to you is the last thing on his mind.

KING Why don't you display your light attitude to the Emissary who has refused to attend because of this insult.

QUEEN Oh, nonsense. I think he thrives on insults. Besides, I've talked to this girl and she's delightful—and, if it will ease your mind, of very fine upbringing. (She hums a few bars of the song.)

KING I wish you would stop that.

QUEEN I can't help it, dear. It does bring back some memories.

KING (Finally warming) Well, I suppose we were young once.

QUEEN (Caught off-guard) Oh, I wasn't thinking of you. (Consoles him) Now, you can take a little joke, can't you. (Kisses him.)

KING Would you stop that! 69

(The lighting shifts to another part of the stage where several women are watching ANN and the PRINCE.)

FIRST WOMAN Well, whatever do we have here?

SECOND WOMAN Some are calling it a guest of the royal family.

FIRST WOMAN There must be some confusion. Shouldn’t she be serving us ale, or, perhaps, looking after the stables?

THIRD WOMAN Say what you will — the Prince seems to be quite taken with her.

FIRST WOMAN Such a romantic! Well, they’ll never allow it to continue. I can promise you that. The girl is descended from a line of dissolutes.

2ND WOMAN Perhaps you doubt the power of the crown.

THIRD WOMAN Meaning?

2ND WOMAN Some births become noble with a pen stroke.

THIRD WOMAN They wouldn't!

2nd Woman: Well, I heard the King is thinking about making her father baron of one of the provinces.

FIRST WOMAN Which province?

2ND WOMAN Well, yours for all I know. Let's say it is no time to be out of favor with the King. 70

(Lighting shifts to PRINCE and ANN who are dancing.)

PRINCE You see, it’s exactly as I said — they’re dazzled by you.

ANN Or mystified why you brought me.

PRINCE Yes, and mystified. But it’s your moment, Ann — one you’ll remember forever. Don’t cloud it with doubt.

ANN The way they're looking at me…

PRINCE Envy, wonder, fear, plans of how they can turn you to their own advantage… Look into their eyes and you can almost see the wheels turning. Where else could you enjoy such a show!

ANN You actually enjoy all the intrigue, don’t you?

PRINCE A fish may as well learn to enjoy water. You don't have to worry about them, though. They're not your equal — not in the way that matters.

(The lighting shifts to another part of the stage where WORCESTER and NORTHUMBERLAND are talking to a couple of other nobles.)

FIRST NOBLE Speak plain to me. If you know something of these plans…

WORCESTER I know the same as you. The King must see the line of succession ensured. As you can see, the Prince seems to have made up his mind.

FIRST NOBLE So it would seem. 71

WORCESTER The King must either restore the girl’s father to noble status or suffer both loss and scandal.

NORTHUMBERLAND I'm afraid this is true.

FIRST NOBLE But to depose a noble family and install a pretender…

WORCESTER Ah, but Sir John is not exactly a pretender. His grandfather was a baron with considerable holdings — holdings lost by the whim of one king, gained back by the whim of another.

FIRST NOBLE Those same lands will be restored, then?

WORCESTER Oh, almost certainly not. The current baron is one of the King's most devoted supporters.

NORTHUMBERLAND And I’d wager, he will not depose one of his enemies, either. That would be tantamount to civil war.

WORCESTER Most likely it will be some poor soul who doesn’t even know he's out of favor.

MESSENGER (Entering) Pardon, Lord Worcester, a… gentleman… outside said this was most urgent.

WORCESTER (Reads note and looks stunned.) If you’ll excuse me. (Walks to a secluded part of the stage with NORTHUMBERLAND) Falstaff. 72

NORTHUMBERLAND He’s been detained?

WORCESTER No, he’s outside with another “pressing matter” to discuss with me.

NORTHUMBERLAND Is there a problem?

WORCESTER Only the fat thief’s infernal greed. This is the fourth time he has come to me with a “pressing matter” and every time it costs me a purse of gold. (He walks to the outside of the palace where FALSTAFF is waiting)

FALSTAFF My Lord, I am grievous ashamed.

WORCESTER I suppose your “pressing matter” was a need to apologize?

FALSTAFF Partly, my lord.

WORCESTER Accepted. Now it’s time we went inside.

FALSTAFF You have been most generous and noble. And I — selfish as sin. For, you see, have forgotten my beloved daughter.

WORCESTER I'm sure she would be most happy to see you, Sir John — if you would kindly…

FALSTAFF I cannot, my lord. It grieves me to say I have no dowry to give. (He looks slyly at WORCESTER who immediately understands his meaning.) 73

WORCESTER Not another penny, Sir John.

FALSTAFF Why, she cannot think to marry without a dowry.

WORCESTER Falstaff, you've already been paid — four times over — and I call on you to perform your duty — if not for me then for the good of England.

FALSTAFF England? Why, tis a rich land and can easily afford me! Come now, my Lord, my appearance at court clearly must serve your own ends.

WORCESTER I explained that I wished to see justice done and…

FALSTAFF Speak to me as a fool and I'll answer you as one. You've much to gain from me, my lord. I shared a drink with your squire — a reedy lad drunk with ale, giggling like a virgin, and confessin' truth like a monk caught in self- employed passion.

WORCESTER And what exactly did he tell you?

FALSTAFF Everything!

WORCESTER I’m sure you misunderstood. The lad drinks too much and sometimes imagines. All the same, perhaps you’re right about the dowry. Fortunately, Your daughter's beauty and charm should not require any more than a token.

FALSTAFF You speak the truth — I ask only a paltry sum. Hardly worth the mention. (He whispers a sum in his ear and WORCESTER cringes.) 74

I could not help but admire your ring, my lord. Gems the size of dumplings! I'd say such a token could easily serve as a fair bond between gentlemen.

WORCESTER If I agree to your terms, Sir John, we have a new contract. For the rest of this evening, you are in my employ. You will say what I tell you to say and act exactly as I prescribe.

FALSTAFF Why, what do you take me for, my Lord. A thief? A swindler? A pretender?

WORCESTER That's exactly what I take you for.

FALSTAFF One of the best! (Laughs) Your ring, my lord! (Chuckles and takes the ring.)

WORCESTER We'll prepare for your entrance. (They walk off stage. Attention shifts to the KING who is whispering into the ear of RUTHERFORD. RUTHERFORD soon approaches ANN and the PRINCE who are dancing. He speaks to ANN.)

RUTHERFORD I wonder if I might have the pleasure of the next dance?

PRINCE (To ANN) Sir Edmund Rutherford. (ANN looks at PRINCE wondering if she should accept. He whispers to her.) Go ahead. Let’s see what they’re up to.

ANN I’m honored, my lord. (They begin to dance and become lost in the crowd.) 75

(At the grand entrance to the hall, a servant announces FALSTAFF’S arrival.)

SERVANT Sir John Falstaff of Eastcheap.

(FALSTAFF, accompanied by WORCESTER, enters. People look at him in amazement and the crowd buzzes with gossip.)

WORCESTER (Confidentially) We'll greet the Earl of Rockingham first. Don’t forget what I told you. (To Rockingham) Lord Rockingham, may I present Sir John Falstaff.

FALSTAFF Ah, my Lord. A pleasure. I chanced to pass your manor house and did greatly admire it. I've been told your land produces a ripe yield of barley. My favorite crop!

(Rockingham looks pale and shaken. The lighting shifts to ANN AND RUTHERFORD.)

RUTHERFORD My sense about you was right. You are a lovely dancer.

ANN Thank you.

RUTHERFORD I should say that if I were some thirty years younger, this Prince would have a rival. Indeed! And I would win— strategy. (He winks.)

ANN Would you, now?

RUTHERFORD And I'll tell you exactly the strategy I would use. I know this Prince and his whims well enough. I would wait for the right moment when his attention turns elsewhere—then offer you a kingdom just for a smile. Now what do you think of my strategy? 76

ANN I'm flattered, my lord. But I think you would have to wait a very long time.

RUTHERFORD May we talk for a moment? (They stop dancing and move stage forward.) You truly don't know, do you? Ann, how old are you?

ANN Nineteen.

RUTHERFORD I'd have guessed younger. They tell me you believe the woodland spirits speak to the pure of heart.

ANN I… I once studied such things, my lord.

RUTHERFORD And you believe in them?

ANN I don’t know.

RUTHERFORD My dear, I've known the Prince since he was a babe. Bless the lad—he's a noble spirit; but of no great constancy in love. (Looks at her with studied sincerity.) I wouldn't want you to be hurt. (Pauses. ANN looks concerned, but wary) You didn't think you were the first, did you?

ANN There's no doubt in my heart.

RUTHERFORD Perhaps it's because that doubt is hiding in your eyes. (ANN looks away.) Surely you realize this is no place for you to be.

ANN You may underestimate me. 77

RUTHERFORD I hope so. (ANN looks confused.) My concern is for the good of all England. King Henry must remain on the throne and his son must follow him. The alternative is civil war. It makes a fleeting romance seem small by comparison, doesn’t it?

ANN I believe our dance is over, my lord. (She begins to walk away.)

RUTHERFORD My Lady, I mean no offense; but you do pose a serious problem. You’ll do yourself and everyone else a great favor if you end this graciously. (ANN continues to look at him, stunned.) We know of your family's circumstances. Since the death of your step-father two years ago, your mother has sold away parts of your land just to put food on the table. It doesn't have to be that way. The prince’s behavior has compromised you. We would like to make amends.

ANN You’re offering me money to leave?

RUTHERFORD I’d call it righting a wrong. You must realize you've made a mistake in becoming involved with this fickle Prince. Trust me — he will change his mind about you.

ANN You're right, my lord.

RUTHERFORD (Relieved) I'm glad you…

ANN You do underestimate me. If the Prince is as fickle as you say, then your problem would be solved, wouldn't it — without your having to pay anybody. You know he loves me and your bribe proves it! Excuse me, my lord.

(ANN leaves RUTHERFORD standing there and begins looking for the PRINCE. She finds 78

him and walks into the midst of a tense confrontation between the PRINCE and HOTSPUR. She doesn't realize what is happening at first.) Hal, I…

PRINCE Wait, Ann—not now.

HOTSPUR Ha, the Prince's “Lady.”

PRINCE This is between the two of us, Hotspur.

HOTSPUR I only wish it were. Your personal affairs have come to be the concern of everyone. Even now we wonder from which tavern will come the next Queen of England. (PRINCE goes to strike him but HOTSPUR stays his arm.) Your tavern manners are out of place here—Prince of Wales. If you've the courage to settle this quarrel, we'll do it as becomes knights.

PRINCE Broadswords then.

HOTSPUR Broadswords it is.

PRINCE What say you to Thursday morning?

HOTSPUR I say that gives you four days to make your peace with God. Till then—Prince of Wales.

ANN Hal, you can't. He'll kill you. Even in Wales he's known…

PRINCE I know enough of that pompous knight's reputation—now the world can learn something of mine. (BLACKOUT) (END OF SCENE) 79

ACT II

Scene 3

SETTING: The forest. PRINCE is alone on stage as the scene opens. There is a small basket of flowers sitting near Ann’s book of enchantments. ANN is offstage or far in the background. PRINCE looks briefly at her book, smiles warmly and, after a thoughtful pause, begins to sing.

PRINCE She goes somewhere And I can almost join her. She goes somewhere And there’s a mystery.

Her eyes softly catch the dawn, Filling with light in her song. Speaking a simple truth, a gentle truth That’s her, that’s her.

Her song reaching through the air, Touching a world ever fair. Voice of a lovely call, so soft and all That’s her, that’s her.

If I ever dared to dream my love could answer, That my quest could somehow answer her one prayer. Twin flames we’ll travel far, Beyond that waiting star We are

Here in the afterglow, Held in my arms like a dream She is the one I love, the quest, the star, my own, My one true love.

(ANN walks on stage and is beginning to emerge from her dream-like state. She makes a gesture of thanks to the “forest spirits” and then walks to PRINCE and embraces him gently.) 80

ANN I think I have the answer, Hal.

PRINCE They spoke to you, then?

ANN No. I'm afraid I haven’t heard them for some time now — I don't know why. But, Hal, we don't really need their help. The answer to our question is so obvious. My only fear is that you’re too full of pride to see it.

PRINCE I’m the fellow you met at the Boar’s Head drinking contest, remember?

ANN Some people are foolish enough to give up their dreams, even die, for things they don’t really want. I just hope you’re not one of them. (Pauses) Remember your wish to live a thousand lives? Well, I think you meant that. And you’ve also said you didn’t care about being Prince, or even King. I believe you meant that, as well.

PRINCE Your point?

ANN It’s all so simple. The answer to everything: Instead of walking that way — back to the palace — we can walk this way — right now.

PRINCE To where?

ANN To anywhere. To everywhere! Wear your disguises, live those thousand different lives.

PRINCE You think it’s as simple as that?

ANN 81

Yes, I do. There are people who live that way — players! They do nothing but sing and bring happiness to people. And I know you could be a great one. Nobody has to know who you really are.

PRINCE You really think I can just…

ANN I think we can. Just by walking this way and never looking back. Oh, it doesn’t take much money to live on the road. We could earn our way as we go. Every day fresh, new and full of adventure!

ANN

We’ll travel along Where our hearts belong. Two spirits have never known such freedom. The laws of the state— we’ll never need ‘em To live the grand adventure

The next town ahead Will see that we’re fed And there we’ll recite our songs and verses. If they don’t applaud we’ll take their purses And live the grand adventure.

With only a step to take us there, A step from the past to breathe completely open air.

We’ll sleep by the moon In some wagon soon And dream on the shooting stars so lightly. With millions of wishes shining brightly We’ll share the grand adventure for life!

PRINCE Just walk. The idea is irresistible!

ANN We can do it, Hal. I know we can. Come with me! 82

PRINCE

With only a step To take us there, A step from our past and breathe completely open air.

ANN and PRINCE

We’ll sleep by the moon In some wagon soon, And dream on the shooting stars so lightly. With millions of wishes shining brightly We’ll share the grand adventure for life!

ANN I know you won’t be sorry. Everything will work out, you’ll see. We’ll have our life on the road. One of your brothers can become the heir apparent and your father can resent him, instead. And I'm sure even Hotspur will soon enough find another enemy. (Prince Hal suddenly pauses at the mention of Hotspur’s name.) You don't have to fight him.

PRINCE I do want this life for us, Ann. But it can’t start today.

ANN Just take the step with me, Hal, please. If you go back you may never get another chance.

PRINCE You’re so sure that Hotspur will defeat me?

ANN That’s the pride I was afraid of.

PRINCE Hotspur! I’ve grown up hearing about his empty victories. Heard a thousand times over that if only I were more like him the crown would be secure. Well, damn them all! There’s more to being a prince than spouting pompous slogans and knocking other knights off their horses with a lance. I won’t begin our new life as a coward. 83

ANN You’ll be alive and we’ll be happy. You haven’t cared what others thought before now.

PRINCE Ann, I’ve lived with the disapproval of others all my life, but never my own.

ANN You would risk a meaningless, senseless death — die for a crown you don’t even want? You’d risk my future, as well?

PRINCE Ann, I love you and I want the life we’ve dreamed of — it will just have to wait until after I've faced Hotspur. Prince Hal walks off stage.

ANN (More to herself, haunted) You could die.

ANN

A new world began with you, I’ve only begun to arrive. All time before only half alive. One place you can’t go alone, One place you can’t go alone.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 84

ACT II

Scene 4

SETTING: The Tournament Grounds. HOTSPUR is the first contender to arrive and there is much excitement as he enters.

NORTHUMBERLAND (Warmly greets him.) How are your spirits today, lad?

HOTSPUR Impatient, my lord. My only fear in this match is a fear of boredom.

NORTHUMBERLAND Ha, after today you’ll be leading England to victory. That'll be cure enough for your boredom.

HOTSPUR If God so wills it.

WORCESTER (Entering) God and destiny are with you, Harry. There's no question of that. (Winks) Do show decent showmanship and try to make it last a little while, eh.

(Attention focuses on the KING and QUEEN.)

KING Whatever the cost, Joanna—even if it means civil war—the moment he's wounded is the moment this tournament ceases. (QUEEN embraces him.)

(Attention focuses on FALSTAFF who is with Ann and a few of the Boar's Head crowd.)

FALSTAFF Why, is there no faith in the Prince—a strong, lusty lad! There's no shadow of death about him! 85

ANN Do you feel that, truly?

FALSTAFF Yes, lass, truly. Hotspur! Why, the man's a tank of air. By my troth, one nick of the sword and he'll deflate like a pig's bladder! (HOTSPUR hears him and gives Falstaff a dangerous look.) Ohhh…

(PRINCE enters. There is a deadly silence. He walks to ANN and she hands him her scarf. There is a rumbling throughout the crowd. The PRINCE and HOTSPUR then look to the King who signals the match to begin. The fight starts out by being noble and the PRINCE is obviously doing better than Hotspur expected. HOTSPUR makes a clumsy move and only barely recovers. The crowd is amazed and cheers for the PRINCE.)

PRINCE You look surprised, Harry.

(The fight continues.)

HOTSPUR You're weary, my Prince. Drink has taken its toll on your wind.

(The fight continues and the PRINCE receives a nasty wound on the arm. The crowd is shocked. The PRINCE, though, is only stopped for a few seconds. He springs back into action and the crowd cheers.)

KING (Stands) The match is at an end! By my order—the King!

(The crowd is clearly angry.) 86

NORTHUMBERLAND There was a pledge of honor about this match, your majesty.

KING The King's command…

PRINCE (Screaming) This match is not concluded! (He lunges at HOTSPUR violently. The fight is violent. Horrible fury is displayed by the PRINCE and HOTSPUR. The PRINCE, now in tatters with blood and sweat pouring from him finally falls and HOTSPUR holds his sword to his throat.)

HOTSPUR I claim my victory, Prince of Wales. You, the shadow of succession, will no longer plague this land. It is the Prince I slay—not the man. Renounce your claim to the throne of England. Renounce it before God and these witnesses and your life is spared. (A long silence follows.) I take no glory in your death. Renounce!

PRINCE I renounce nothing.

HOTSPUR Then you leave me no choice! (He is about to strike the fatal blow when his eyes meet Ann’s. He looks again at Prince Hal. This has an impact. A tense pause follows and HOTSPUR suddenly throws his sword to the ground.) The victory is mine—I claim it!

(HOTSPUR walks off. The crowd is astonished. Ann runs to the PRINCE.)

ANN Oh… please help him. Hal… Are you all right? 87

PRINCE The wounds will heal.

ANN Why? Hal, you were willing to die for a crown you don't even want.

PRINCE The words stuck in my throat — I couldn't renounce. I just couldn't. (He is as confused as she is.)

(A physician begins binding PRINCE'S wounds and a crowd forms around them. The KING then approaches and the crowd parts for him. The KING is obviously proud but no words come to him. There is a moving but unspoken reconciliation between father and son and the KING helps the PRINCE to his feet. He supports him as they walk off together. ANN stares in wonder and confusion.)

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 88

Act II

Scene 4

SETTING: MELISSA’S cottage. The small, impoverished dwelling is dimly lit and adorned with a few mystical-looking artifacts. MELISSA is alone and a timid knock is heard at her door.

MELISSA You may enter.

ANN My name is Ann. We met by…

MELISSA I know who you are. What offering do you bring?

ANN Some food… a few things.

MELISSA (Stretches out her hand and takes them.) I am grateful.

ANN How did you know I would come here?

MELISSA It was inevitable.

ANN If you truly have the sight, can you tell me why I came here?

MELISSA A test, child? Very well. You’ve come here because you have lost your gift. Is that not true?

ANN I’m afraid so. Why? 89

MELISSA Because you have denied it. Now you hear only your fears and passions.

ANN Can you tell me about my future with Hal?

MELISSA There is not one future, but many — shaped by voices that live just beyond the realm. To hear them is to possess the gift of prophecy — if you have the courage.

ANN I do.

MELISSA And you've decided that I am one to trust?

ANN (After some hesitation.) Yes. (MELISSA hands her a flask containing a mysterious and ominous looking liquid.) I’m to drink this?

MELISSA It will remove the veil.

ANN (Frightened) I need some time to think about this.

MELISSA (Smiles knowingly) How much time can you spare? (ANN looks at MELISSA in resignation. She drinks the potion and looks sick.) Tonight your mind and soul must be truly free as never before. Here, come to me—let me touch you. Do not be afraid. Whatever they've told you, I am no witch, nor am I possessed by demons—I'm but an old woman who's learned to listen. (She places her hands on ANN’S forehead.) 90

The voices speak from the soul of every livin' thing and are lifted to a plane few can reach. There they have lives of their own. Fearful 'tis at times. Listen now—closely. (Other dimensional type sounds slowly fade in and eerie lighting illuminates the stage.)

ANN I… I don't feel well.

(She seems to pass out and menacing voices are heard.)

Voice of HOTSPUR The people wonder from which tavern will come the future Queen of England.

Voice of RUTHERFORD Trust me — the Prince will change his mind about you.

Voice of FALSTAFF Ha! I fathered that girl on sheer instinct! Father of a princess!

Voice of WORCESTER To it, Hotspur, provoke the fool to defend his tavern wench. Ha, we've found the soft underbelly of this family at last!

Voice of RUTHERFORD The kind gift would come from one high authority.

Voice of HOTSPUR From which tavern…

Voice of RUTHERFORD …will change his mind about you…

Voice of FALSTAFF A boon…

Voice of WORCESTER Provoke the fool… 91

ANN (Delirious) Stop it! Stop it! Why can't they leave us alone! We love each other! Leave us alone, please leave us alone.

MELISSA Child!

ANN I do hear them—I know the voices. They're horrible, selfish, scheming…

MELISSA Child, you hear not the voices…

ANN I do. Just like you said. I do hear them.

MELISSA Hush now and be calm. You hear not the voices—you hear only your fears. These are the lies, girl. Drop them. 'Tis no wonder you've lost the sight. (Pauses. More harmonious music plays under and on stage some visual effects create an image of future greatness.) Free yourself, now—free yourself. A million souls are touched by a golden light. There is a wondrous force building. One to be a hero for this time and a legend forever. A soul reluctant, and now at destiny's crossroads— as are you, Ann Gwynellyn. There is great love between you— impossible though it be.

ANN It's not impossible.

MELISSA Some years hence a royal wedding is destined to end a war between two great nations. A princess must he wed.

ANN A princess.

MELISSA Yet, your love will never be lost. 92

ANN (Confused) I don't want to be a memory. I want us to be together.

MELISSA The voices will speak no more.

ANN But they've hardly said anything.

MELISSA Child, there is something else. There is a rare gift you're to be given.

ANN A gift?

MELISSA A gift more precious than gold or gems or even love.

ANN Is there a way…

MELISSA No, child, this gift is even greater — It is the gift of knowing.

ANN (Disappointed) The gift of knowing.

MELISSA Yes, Ann, the gift of knowing. For all but a rare few, such things as miracles, or magic or even God are a thing of belief…a hope. But you will know, as surely as the sun rises, that the miracle essence of this world is real — real beyond doubt. This is the gift of knowing. (ANN is silent and obviously disappointed. MELISSA speaks a little softer.) As time passes you will know the meaning of this gift.

ANN And how will I know? 93

MELISSA You must be strong enough and wise enough to see it. (Pauses) I’m sorry, Ann, the voices often rob me of my strength. Go in peace.

ANN Shall I come to you again?

MELISSA That is forbidden.

ANN (A little shaken.) I didn't mean…

MELISSA I spoke harshly without meanin' to. You have a kind heart and great courage — my prayers are with you.

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 94

Act II

Scene 5

SETTING: The Boar's Head Tavern. FALSTAFF, lavishly dressed and in a celebrative mood, enters. The two thieves accompany him.

FALSTAFF (He happily sings a few lines from “A Toast To The Boar’s Head.”)

Ha, Delve a lot In a platter brought. Feast away Like your final day…

Ah, Mistress we’ll have your finest platter of sausages and four grand tankards of ale! Yes, mistress, four — because you’re to join us!

MISTRESS QUICKLY Oh, I’m to be YOUR guest in my own house, am I?

FALSTAFF Ha, fetch the sausages and a chair for yourself as well. (He hands her a purse of coins.) You’ll find there’s enough here to make us even, one and all!

MISTRESS QUICKLY (Stunned) Am I to find the sheriff at my door again?

FALSTAFF All gained through fair exchange — every shilling.

FIRST THIEF 'Tis true, Mistress. Sir John has come into his own at last.

SECOND THIEF A wealthy man, and there's still a chance of his becoming a baron. 95

FALSTAFF Now, Mistress a platter fit for celebration!

MISTRESS QUICKLY A baron… you…?

(The thieves shake their heads in the affirmative and MISTRESS QUICKLY exits. FALSTAFF helps himself to a couple tankards of ale.)

FALSTAFF Ha Ha! Now the turn of fortunes wheel finds my troubles all gone Gonna feast to sunset Gonna drink 'til dawn

Shall we have a song? Shall we…

(MISTRESS QUICKLY enters carrying a platter of sausages. She sets them down angrily on the table.)

MISTRESS QUICKLY I hope you choke on them!

FALSTAFF How now?

MISTRESS QUICKLY You’re no noble to me, Sir John. You’ll be served as you’ve always been served — and when you do not pay, you’ll chop wood, as always.

FALSTAFF Days past, Mistress.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I know, Sir John — you’re now a man of means. (Pauses) I suppose you’ll be moving to a finer place now.

FALSTAFF Move, Mistress? Why, I’d not given it thought. 96

MISTRESS QUICKLY I won’t miss you. As for your next platter, you can fetch it yourself!

FALSTAFF Does not a man’s station earn him an ounce of respect?

FIRST THIEF When you were a pauper she had no fear of losing you.

MISTRESS QUICKLY Fear of losing him! I'd sooner miss the wart on my left toe!

SECOND THIEF So much fire!

FIRST THIEF Why, could it be…

SECOND THIEF Well, passion is passion!

MISTRESS QUICKLY You toy with me now. I'll not have it!

FALSTAFF You've my assurance. You'll not have it.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I’ll have anything from you that I want, Sir John — and I don't. Though you've eyed me often enough. And I'm old enough to know desire when I see it!

FALSTAFF The platter of sausages you carry, Ma'am. If you saw desire it was for the sausages.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I've a mind to toss your carcass outside in the cold this very moment. There your sausage can keep you warm.

FIRST THIEF The threats, as always — yet he's never known the cold of night. 97

FALSTAFF And what say you to that, Mistress?

MISTRESS QUICKLY If you’ve mistaken a kind heart for somethin’ more then I feel sorry for you, Sir John. I’ll miss you not.

SECOND THIEF The lady doth protest too much.

FALSTAFF (Knowingly, to the audience) Shakespeare.

FIRST THIEF Far too much thunder to ignore!

FALSTAFF And, in the thunder, a spark!

Just a hint, The way you slam my dishes down. Just a hint, The way you can't keep secret wishes down. Your anger ablaze, I say that’s just a little hint, Just a little hint Romantic ways.

MISTRESS QUICKLY And I know what you dream of, Sir John.

Just a hint, The way you often catch my sight. Just a hint, The way you can't control your appetite. You gorge till you're wide. I say that's just a little hint, Just a little hint Passion inside.

FALSTAFF Oh, I see, Mistress. My appetite is unclaimed lust! For you! 98

MISTRESS QUICKLY You do lust, Sir John, but only your stomach grows larger.

FALSTAFF

You wish it. You wish it, That my appetite, Cupid's fly by night, Is for you

MISTRESS QUICKLY

Forget it, Forget it. Eat your heart away Wishing all the day You had this, warm bliss

FALSTAFF

Just a hint, The way you stack my platter high. Just a hint, The times you've filled my tankard by and by. You meet every need. I say that's just a little hint. Just a little hint. Of carin' indeed. Carin' indeed.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I labor in my occupation and you think it's love?

FALSTAFF I say it's more than an occupation when you serve me such portions. For to see Jack Falstaff devour such a grand platter is to see love consummated!

MISTRESS QUICKLY And you'd take that to be a pretty sight, Sir John? 99

FALSTAFF Truly now… Do you wish for me to leave, Mistress?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Did you not just boast that you could afford better?

FALSTAFF There’s no doubt I could, Mistress. The question to be asked: is there better? Is there a rarer spice or more delectable slice of venison to be served anywhere? I think not!

MISTRESS QUICKLY I wish all my patrons were so happy. But, Sir John — My place of business, my food… my fireside. Is there no other reason to stay? Truly now.

FALSTAFF (Pauses) Well, I once thought… No, Mistress, you would mock me.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I would not.

FALSTAFF Perhaps there is one more thing. Yes, Mistress, there is. One time that I truly did think about it… It was around the holidays and the two of us were alone by the fireside…

MISTRESS QUICKLY That we were.

FALSTAFF And for a moment our eyes met.

MISTRESS QUICKLY I do remember, Sir John.

FALSTAFF A tender moment, was it not?

MISTRESS QUICKLY Perhaps… Perhaps it was, Sir John. 100

FALSTAFF Know you why I remember it so warmly? (Pauses. MISTRESS QUICKLY looks at him with anticipation.) That was the day you first served that delectable pudding — rich with cinnamon, spices and round little plums. (Laughs) 'Tis true, I'll stay for the pudding!

MISTRESS QUICKLY And I'll see you choke on it! (She exits)

FALSTAFF (Laughs and calls out after her) Had with much ease! Fear not, Mistress, ‘tis all for the best. Love fades all too soon — but what we have is good for a lifetime!

FIRST THIEF Bear in mind, Jack: If old Worcester finds a way to gain back his gold you may again find yourself beggin' for a spot next to her fireplace.

FALSTAFF And it will be mine for the asking! She loves me as I am. Were I to cower and simper at her feet, as would a thin man, she would have none but scorn for me. As for WORCESTER there'll be no loss. What's mine is mine.

FIRST THIEF You took his family ring, Jack.

FALSTAFF Gained by fair exchange! I left him a wiser man. Ha! Did I ever school that Worcester in the ways of the wicked!

SECOND THIEF By my troth, Jack. I marvel at you. Do you ever wonder if you’ve to answer for this someday?

FALSTAFF Ha! To exact revenge he would have to admit I bested him. No, ‘tis not likely. 101

SECOND THIEF No, Jack — I mean to a higher authority. (Points skyward)

FALSTAFF Ah! By my truth, I do understand your meaning. Know you, I prepare for the time of my redemption each and every day. Why, I prepare for it now — as we speak.

FIRST THIEF I suppose you’ll rush to confession the moment the tankard is empty.

FALSTAFF Not while I’ve the health and spirit to enjoy this life! I was born with thrice the appetite of an ordinary man — a natural gift for vice, an unnatural enjoyment of all things physical. Why, it would take ten-fold the holiness to convert me as an ordinary man. The day Jack Falstaff repents, then will the trumpets of Heaven sound!

(Sings: As the song progresses, they drink from large tankards and gorge themselves from a huge platter of food. Periodically they throw bones over their shoulders.)

There was never such gain In anyone’s reign, So much redemption by the pound.

There was never such range Of holier change. It’s then a trumpet will sound.

When it's my day to repent. When it's my day to repent. I'll set a fine example of a life of no desire, A sinner no more, a life to inspire

They'll all remember the day. They'll all remember the day. There never was an equal to a miracle began. If I can repent, then anyone can.

I'll take the fall. 102

In leaner demeanor I'll live a little cleaner. I'll stun them all When vices come tumbling down.

When I do sin again I win again For the day I repent.

(Fun business on stage as the thieves celebrate and feast.)

FIRST THIEF Come now, Jack, how could you have sinned so much in one lifetime?

FALSTAFF Why, it’s not just the number of sins — any pistol prick of a thief can commit a multitude of crimes. It’s the width and breadth— deliciously grievous misconduct. I tell you this: whoever said there were but seven deadly sins was clearly a man of impoverished imagination. And, I suspect, of weedy thin constitution, as well. It's certain he never anticipated Jack Falstaff.

SECOND THIEF So, how many sins are there, Jack?

FALSTAFF For you… about three. And that’s on a good day. For a normal man, I agree seven is a fair number.

FIRST THIEF And for Jack Falstaff…

FALSTAFF Why, for twice-a-man, at least fourteen in virtue of my size alone. And another hundred in virtue of my imagination!

SECOND THIEF And you’ve committed them all?

FALSTAFF Several on the fringe I missed. 103

FIRST THIEF Aha!

FALSTAFF

But in my glorious quest. I promise to do my best…

I’ll try to fit them all in. I’ll try to fit them all in. My sinning is beginning to begat a holy winning. With pleasure to win, and willpower thin.

I’ll do my best, To philander is grander when morals so meander My sacrifice, A badder example is nice.

When I do sin again I win again For the day I repent!

(The lights fade and then slowly come back up. When they do, the two thieves are in an unconscious stupor and the platter is nearly empty. FALSTAFF, still eating and drinking, rejoices in a prolonged, full- hearted belch and then falls asleep. ANN enters with her belongings in hand and goes to him to say good-bye. She almost wakes him, but decides against it. She, instead, kisses him on the forehead and begins to exit. She is startled when two soldiers ominously appear. They take her into custody and exit.)

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 104

Act II

Scene 6

SETTING: A room in a manor house. ANN is again at a writing table talking with NORA, a woman assigned to watch over her. This scene takes up to where Act I, Scene I left off — just before the flashback.

ANN Well, the rest you know. I was on my way to see Hal when the soldiers placed me under arrest and brought me here.

NORA Suppose you had your freedom again. What would you do now, Miss?

ANN I've no choice but to return. I can't stand between Hal and his crown—and it has to be my decision.

(RUTHERFORD then enters.)

RUTHERFORD My lady. I trust they have kept you in comfort.

ANN It's quite comfortable, for a prison.

RUTHERFORD You are not a prisoner here, you're a guest. My lady, I know what you think of our ways. That's why I find it curious that you tried to bribe one of the King's guards to take a letter to the Prince.

ANN Letter?

RUTHERFORD And now you feign innocence. When you're a little older you may find games of cat and mouse are as boring as I do. I know you are trying to send a letter to the Prince. 105

ANN (After a brief pause.) That's true.

RUTHERFORD You were indignant when you were offered money to ease this dilemma, and now you're casually trying to bribe others.

ANN It's not the same thing.

RUTHERFORD Oh? For you to carry out your girlish whims bribery is quite all right, but it's immoral for me to try and save a kingdom with it. Are you ready to be honest with me now?

ANN (Weakly) Yes.

RUTHERFORD What do you plan to say in this letter of yours?

ANN I don't have much choice. (She hands him the letter)

RUTHERFORD What else do you intend to say?

ANN I don’t know. No matter how I word it, it's still… (She pauses, unable to speak.)

RUTHERFORD Then if you would care to sign this letter, I'll take it to him myself and save you the expense of bribing somebody.

ANN There is one thing more. (She writes something and is on the brink of tears.) You don't mind if I say this? 106

RUTHERFORD That’s very touching. If you will sign now, we can put this all in the past.

ANN You will give it to him? You wouldn't deceive me about this?

RUTHERFORD You were once offered a generous sum to say this very thing. Yes, he will receive it. There is a convoy leaving soon. I'll see that you have a place in it. (Starts to exit.)

ANN I do love him — more than anything in this world.

RUTHERFORD I’m sure you think so.

ANN You doubt…

RUTHERFORD It doesn’t matter. (Begins to exit.) I’ll deliver your letter.

(Waiting Star underscore begins.)

ANN Wait. I see something. You’ve completely closed your heart. But you weren’t always this way, were you? Maybe you lost someone; or someone left you; a long time ago. Someone you loved with all your heart.

RUTHERFORD You don’t know anything…

ANN But I do. I see right through the lies you tell yourself.

RUTHERFORD I think you’re delusional. 107

ANN You can have it back.

RUTHERFORD Have what back?

ANN Everything — if you only take a moment to reach… Nobody is beyond redemption. And I can see that you want to help me. No, please don’t look away. Look into my eyes, just for a moment. It’s a beginning. Anyone can find the magic. I’ve taught people. (She places her hand gently on his forehead.) If you can remember and feel the love you once had, then it’s still there — glowing inside — absolutely real. If you can only feel a part of it, it can grow. (She speaks gently in a way that reaches his heart.) She loved you. (RUTHERFORD suddenly looks vulnerable.) You only think you’re lost, but you’re not. (She takes his hand again.) Spirits of the trees and the brook and the sky, bring reaching sight to my soul and my eye.

(The underscore stops abruptly.)

RUTHERFORD I’m done with this! Thank God I’m saving the Prince from you.

(He exits. ANN, crushed, turns to NORA.)

ANN It didn’t work. Again it didn’t work! He makes me feel so hopelessly stupid!

NORA Nobody thinks you're stupid, Miss. Perhaps just young.

ANN And just when I thought I was growing wise… The old woman promised I'd understand — and I don't. I haven’t found “the 108 gift of knowing” or anything else. None of it even makes sense. Does it to you? Any of it?

NORA Oh, you'd not like what I'd say, Miss.

ANN No, I want to know.

NORA I think your Welsh magic serves you poorly, Miss. There's nothing to understand.

ANN What do you mean?

NORA You seek a meaning that's not there. You say that the spirits don't speak to you anymore. The truth is, Miss, you're growing older — you heard only your imagination—and you're not content to heed it any more.

ANN Is that what growing older means?

NORA The world's not what I like either — God knows—but I make my way. I live in it. Your magic is not your friend — you’ve got to stop! You'll grow into another crazy old woman if you don't. (ANN is obviously saddened by this.) I'm sorry, Miss, but you asked what I thought. Well, I'd best pack your things. I am sorry. (She exits.)

(Now alone on stage ANN sings)

Somewhere, so near the story's end, Where is enchanted romance That the Fates portend.

My heart is much too young, they say. I still believe the magic Will come back someday.

Reaching, for things we cannot see. 109

Reaching, for things we'll never be. A dream can die in a brief sigh.

Sail on, to lands somewhere afar. Sail with the tide forever And without your waiting star

(BLACKOUT)

(END OF SCENE) 110

Act II

Scene 7

SETTING: A boat landing on the Thames River, night. A torch-carrying procession, along with ANN and RUTHERFORD enter. The people are quiet and the moment somber.

RUTHERFORD You’ve my word that you’ll be transported safely. I still don’t understand why you have refused the King’s generosity. (ANN is silent). You would be well cared for.

ANN Thank you, my lord, but no.

RUTHERFORD My lady, I serve my King proudly and believe his continued rule is for the good of England. Sometimes what I must do saddens me. This has been one of those times.

ANN I do see your sadness, my lord.

RUTHERFORD I truly wish I could help. But, if I allowed you and the Prince to say your farewells, it would be a high crime.

ANN I understand.

RUTHERFORD Still, I don’t think any harm would come of it. (ANN looks at him a bit confused.) You are determined to leave, are you not?

ANN I have to leave. I’m endangering his life just by being here. 111

RUTHERFORD As I thought. I wish you a safe journey. (He begins to exit, then pauses) I was wrong about something. The Prince never would have changed his mind about you. (Pauses) You know, sometimes innocent mistakes happen. For instance, to arrange for your convey I had to write down this very location and the time of your departure. I wonder if it was accidentally left in your letter to the Prince. (He begins to exit and turns.) An innocent mistake. (Exits)

Prince Hal then appears.

ANN Hal! (They embrace warmly. Finale underscore music begins.)

PRINCE Did you think I could let you go?

ANN (Weakly) I have to leave.

PRINCE Ann, I haven’t changed my mind about anything — not about this accident of my birth — and not about you. Don’t you see? I can’t let you go. Unless… your feelings have changed.

ANN You know that isn't true.

PRINCE Then why?

ANN Because I don’t want our love destroyed. As long as I’m here people will try to use me against you. You know I'm right — It almost cost you your life.

PRINCE It gave me my life. 112

ANN No, Hal, you could have died out there — died for the crown you say you don't even want — and it’s a miracle that you didn’t.

PRINCE Don't you see it — you are that miracle. It wasn’t the crown. It was something inside that I couldn’t dishonor — something sacred — something you helped me to find. And I’m sure Hotspur could see that — that’s why he spared my life. (ANN looks at him intently) It’s through you I realized I do have a destiny. It was like feeling something inside awaken for the first time.

(ANN is silent for a brief time, deeply moved.)

ANN “…A million twilight fires, bursting to dawn inside you.” (Almost in tears) Oh, thank God I can say that again and believe it!

PRINCE A million twilight fires?

ANN From my song. It’s when many small lights, everything we are, everything we’ve done, suddenly glow as one and there is perfect sight. After that moment we’re never the same.

PRINCE And that means anything is possible.

ANN Hal, I do love you… and there's nothing I want more… But I know the future. Everything is against us.

PRINCE Everything will not decide this, Ann. If I'm ever to lead some day…

ANN You are… you are. You're going to be one of the greatest Kings this land has ever known. Don't ask me how I know this, but I do. It's your destiny. 113

PRINCE Destiny? My destiny is what I say it is! Nobody really knows the future — but we do have this moment, and it doesn’t have to end. The kind of love we have can overcome anything! A while back you said all we have to do is walk — I think you said “This way… (Pause) Right now.”

(He reaches out his hand out and waits. After a pause ANN slowly takes it.)

PRINCE

(He sings very softly) Twin flames we’ll travel far Beyond that waiting star We are. ANN

Then feel a million twilight fires Bursting to dawn inside you With a hope that’s new

PRINCE and ANN Embrace your waiting star.

(Looking deeply into one another’s eyes, they embrace. The lights create a magical glowing effect, and they walk off together, hand in hand.)

(BLACKOUT)

(CURTAIN)