NOT TO MENTION THE OSTRICHES
Scene, in front of curtains (see notes) enter, stage right, Maisie and Jean, each carrying a torch and small bag. they stop and look around.
MAISIE I don’t like leaving the car, but it should be safe off the road there, it’s far too foggy to go on. I was frightened that we’d end up in a ditch.
JEAN I hate to say “I told you so” Maisie but you wouldn’t listen to me. But then you’re always the same. Impetuous. Never look ahead.
MAISIE And you Jean are a stick in the mud, and a whinger to boot. You always were a bit of a moaner, but you’re getting worse.
JEAN You must admit, it’s no joke being stranded in the middle of nowhere like this.
MAISIE Well, it’s not the end of the world, something will turn up.
JEAN There you go again, stupidly optimistic.
MAISIE I would remind you Jean, that you were not forced to come with me. You suggested it, and I thought it would make a break for you, seeing what a dull life you lead.
JEAN If you’re going to start all that again, trying to get me to join this and that, you can save your breath.
MAISIE I need a few minutes peace and quiet, you’ve done nothing but bend my ear for the last two hours about Mrs. Next Door and she’s as boring as... .Look, you stay here with the bags and I’ll have a look round. There might be something nearby (leaves Jean standing with bags and goes off, quickly rushing back)
MAISIE (pulling Jean along) The fog’s thinned a bit, and I saw two cottages up here. (points) A funny thing happened just about here, there was a loud whoosh and a thump of feet, just a bit away from me. I can’t imagine what it was.
JEAN The hound of the Baskervilles I expect!