LITERATURE 1

8:00 9:00
2ND Semester S.Y. 2016-2017

DEEP IN MY
HEART
By: Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero

Submitted to:
Dr. Gweendolyn Suico
SUMMARY Crescencio/ COMMENTS
OF ATTENDANCE

Submitted by:
Calvo, Jeanylyn - Isabel de Castro
Lerio, John Barry - Dr. Ric de Castro
Judaya, Lyndee - Nina
Montellano, Christine - Maria
Abing, Zhaira Marela - Felisa
Baraquil, Christian David- Tirso/David
 NAMES ABSENCES ABSENCES LATES COMMENTS
INSIDE THE OUTSIDE THE
CLASSROOM CLASSROOM
0 1 0 - Needs to be
Calvo, Jeanylyn reminded with her
lines during
practices.
0 1 0 - Always suggesting
Lerio, John Barry anything for the
groups
improvement.
0 0 0 - Manages the
Judaya, Lyndee groups blocking

0 2 0 - Sometimes
overlap the lines of
Montellano, another character
Christine and always give
ideas
0 1 0 - Does her own way
on how to improve
her character but
Abing, Zhaira shes open to
Marela suggestion and
follows it if she
thinks it will improve
her
0 1 0 - Sometimes uses
his phone but hes
actually attentive to
Baraquil, Christian any suggestions or
David reactions even if
hes using his
phone; also gives
an idea on how to
act a certain scene
 o,
Lerio,

David
Abing,
Calvo,

Zhaira
Marela
Lyndee
Judaya,
Jeanylyn

Christian
Christine

Baraquil,
Montellan
John Barry

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3:00-5:00 pmFebruary 8, 2017

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3:00-5:00 pmFebruary 15, 2017

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A
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P

8:00am-3:00 pmFebruary 18, 2017

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A
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P

3:00-5:00 pmFebruary 22, 2017

P
P
P
P
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P

3:00-5:00 pmFebruary 26, 2017

A
P
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A
P

3:00-5:00 pmMarch 1, 2017

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P
A
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P
A

3:00-5:00 pmMarch 5, 2017

 Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero
He was born on 22 January 1910 to
Manuel S. Guerrero, an essayist, and
Eliza Ocampo. He is the nephew of
Fernando Ma. Guerrero and the
cousin of writers Evangelina
Guerrero-Zacarias, Nilda Guerrero-
Barranco, Leon Ma. Guerrero, and
Carmen Guerrero-Nakpil.

His cousins discovered his writing

inclinations when he was 12. As his
mother took him to watch plays at the Manila Grand Opera House, he was exposed
early to the works of Jos Echegaray, Jacinto Benavente, and Henrik Ibsen.

He studied at the Ateneo de Manila, Gregg's Business School, and at the University of
the Philippines (UP) but he dropped out of each school.

His career
He worked as a representative and proofreader for La Vanguardia and as drama critic at
the Manila Tribune. He worked as scriptwriter for Filippine Films in 1939. From 1950 to
1951, he wrote and directed for Purico's Dulaan ng Buhay on radio. In 1959, he adapted
and directed six of his plays for Caltex Caravan.

His one-act play, No todo es risa (Not All Is Laughter) was written in grade school. It
was staged for the Rector's birthday. His first english play, Half an Hour in a Convent,
was written when he was a sophomore in UP in 1934.

After the Catholic Women's League staged his first three-act play, The Forsaken House,
Guerrero decided to make theater a profession.

Guerrero formed the Filipino Players and served as its director from 1940 to 1947. He
was appointed as assistant professor of dramatics in 1947 which caused an uproar
among the faculty as did not possess a university degree. He was nevertheless
appointed and served as director of the UP Dramatic Club for 16 years. Under his
leadership, the club has produced over 120 foreign and Filipino plays and casting and
training future directors who were then neophyte actors like Behn Cervantes, Tony
Mabesa, Jonee Gamboa, Lino Brocka, Ishmael Bernal, Celia Diaz-Laurel, Jun Roy, and
Joy Virata in his production.

Upon the suggestion of UP President Carlos P. Romulo, Guerrero set up the UP Mobile
Theater. It had more than 2,500 performances all over the country. It also presented his
plays in English and in regional languages for 19 years.
He retired from UP in 1982 after 35 years of service. He was named professor emeritus
the following year. The theater in the Arts and Sciences building at UP was named after
him in 1976.

His Works
He has written and directed some 100 plays. Among the most popular ones were:

Women Are Extraordinary, 1937

Hate Begins, 1938

Romance in B Minor, 1939

Movie Artists, 1940

Wanted: A Chaperone, 1940

Forever, 1941

Condemned, 1944

Frustrations, 1944

Wow These Americans, 1946

Perhaps, 1947

Three Rats, 1948

Deep in My Heart, 1951

In Unity, 1953

Our Strange Ways, 1953

These plays dominated Japanese Occupation shows. They were produced in Manila
and the provinces, in English and Filipino translations.

His works were anthologized in:

13 Plays, 1947

8 Other Plays, 1952

7 More Plays, 1962

 12 New Plays, 1971

My Favorite 11 Plays, 1976

4 Last Plays, 1980

18 Plays Translated in Pilipino, 1985

Awards and Recognition

Rizal Pro-Patria Award for Drama, 1961

Patnubay ng Sining at Kalinangan Award for Drama, 1969

Republic Cultural Heritage Award for Literature, 1972

Ateneo de Manila University's Tanglaw ng Lahi, 1981

Aliw Hall of Distinction Award for Playwriting, 1982

Diwa ng Lahi Award, 1985

Gawad CCP Para sa Sining for Theater, 1989

 DEEP IN MY HEART
By: Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero

CHARACTERS
DR. RIC DE CASTRO
ISABEL DE CASTRO
NINA
MARIO
FELISA
TIRSO
DAVID

TIME: 10:30 pm

SCENE : A small restaurant located in a quite street. The place is cozy. The ceiling
is low. The main entrance with swinging doors is at the center, rear.
In both sides of the entrance are glass windows which give a view of the
street. On the left is a door leading to the Ladies' Room. On the
right, two uneven doors, one leading to the kitchen and the other with a sign:
Office . The table and chairs mostly used by the central characters
should be in the middle, front. A screen stands on one side, for the
convenience of patrons wishing a little privacy. Another table and two
chairs ,extreme right, front. The rest of the table and chairs maybe
conveniently placed a crossed the set, but they should be few and
widely scattered to give the impression of space. Fresh flowers,
brightly colored runners, and hanging plants add to the gaiety and
homely atmosphere. When the curtain rises, TIRSO is seen sitting at one of the
table , sipping coffee. Obviously he is waiting for someone for he
keeps looking at his watch. MARIO, The owner, a plump heavy-set
man, wearing an apron, comes in from kitchen door , wipes the
surface one of the tables. He looks at his wrist watch the goes to main
entrance, looks out casually, then glances back at the chairs and places it
 upside down on top of the other. Sounds of running steps outside,
then DR. RIC DE CASTRO and his wife ISABEL rush in, laughing. DR.
RIC DE CASTRO is about thirty-five, tall, well-built, with manly
features. There is a touch of carelessness about his clothes, indicating
lack of vanity, but also a little sense of irresponsibility which is a
characteristic of men have never really grown up. There is a far-away,
lonely look about his eyes, which he reveals unconsciously at
unguarded moments. In theses gay moments, like he is boyishly light-
heart ed. His voice is low but clear. ISABEL is twenty five, rather tall and
very attractive, dressed with fine taste. She wears earrings and
diamond bracelet. There is a subtle air of coldness about her. She
speaks in slightly high-pitched though pleasant.

RIC : Closing so early, Mario?

MARIO : Oh good morning doctor! Not so early, its ten thirty.

RIC : We just came from the show across the street. There's a slight drizzle
outside. We thought we'd drop for a bite.

MARIO : I was just about to close. Monday always spells poor business.
Everybody stays home.

RIC : Isabel and I should be staying home too. But we are celebrating ---

MARIO : Celebrating?

RIC : Our third anniversary.

MARIO : How the years fly be. I remember the day you were married ---

RIC : We aren't too old yet Maria. Three years is only thirty-six months no?

MARIO : You and your wife Isabel will never grow old, you always look young.

RIC : Oh no? (Touching his temple) Look! some gray hair already! You
should see us twenty years from now.

MARIO : Oh, Doctor. That is so far away. I may not be alive then.

RIC : What am I a doctor for, if I don't make you alive to old age eh?

ISABEL : Ric my hair is sight.

MARIO : (Pointing to the ladies room). In there, Dona Isabel.

RIC : Where can I have my hat, Mario?

MARIO : Here, Ill take it to the office. You're in high spirits today Doctor.

RIC : Am I? Well, I suppose Im happy.

MARIO : Oh yes, doctor , it is.

RIC : Remember the last time I wanted to use it? And such an important call
too.
MARIO : But it works now doctor, really it does.

RIC : You see , I have a patient --- the young son of my friend Vic mesa --- In a
case of diphtheria. I asked him to keep in touch with me if ever the fever
rises. So I'll call him up and tell him to get in touch with me here. Is
that alright with you?

MARIO : Certainly, doctor , certainly. Give me your hat I'll take it to the office.

RIC : Thanks, Mario. (Mario goes to his office. TIRSO, Who has been
overhearing the conversation, now turns and waves at RIC).

TIRSO : Dr. Ric De Castro in person!

RIC : Tirso! Well, what are you doing here?

TIRSO : This is a public restaurant, isnt it ? I'm waiting for a friend.

RIC : Hmmmm ----- a girl?

TIRSO : No, not this time anyhow.

RIC : Not this particular time anyhow.

TIRSO : A business transaction with a friend, really. If he doesn't show up in a

minute, Im going.(Mario goes out)

MARIO : Excuse me, doctor. Would you want ----maybe steaks and onions?

RIC : All right Mario. And of course I dont know what Isabel will order. We will
wait for her. At any rate, bring us to cups of coffee.

MARIO : Right away , doctor. (Mario goes out)

TIRSO : (Smiling significantly.) I see you came with your wife/

RIC : Surprised?

TIRSO : Well, It's one of the few times I see you with her.

RIC : Today is our wedding anniversary.(Tirso keeps smiling significantly.)

what's the joke Tirso?

TIRSO : Oh nothing, I was just wonderin' about you and her ---

RIC : Her? Isabel, you mean?

TIRSO : Not necessarily.

RIC : What do you? ---

TIRSO : Nina.

RIC : Nina? (He stares at Tirso, then locks away.)

TIRSO : I happen to know Nina.

RIC : Do you?

TIRSO : I was introduced to her once. A charming woman.

RIC : Yes, quite.

TIRSO : Of course it struck me as rather surprising ---

RIC : Which?

TIRSO : I mean with such charming wife as Isabel.

RIC : Oh , its hard to explain.

TIRSO : I have a impression that you and Isabel were happily married/

RIC : Oh ,we are.

TIRSO : Are you?

RIC : In a way at least. But since our baby died a year a go --- there has been
a change.

TIRSO : On whose part?

RIC : More of Isabels.

TIRSO : None of yours?

RIC : Well, I wouldnt dare to say that, Tirso.

TIRSO : Does she know?

RIC : About nina? (Tirso NODS). I dont think so.

TIRSO : Your taking a big chance, Ric. If they should meet ---

RIC : Nina doesn't know much about me.

TIRSO : You mean --- Nina thinks you aren't married?

RIC : Well if you want to put it that way---

TIRSO : if Nina should know ? (Ric merely smily and shrugs his shoulder slightly.)
And if Isabel should know?

(Mario come's in, Bringing two cups of coffer which he places around on Ric's table.)

MARIO : Oh doctor, do you want the screened place around your table?

RIC : Yes Mario, I think I'd prefer it.

(Mario places the screen around his table, suddenly she found something on the table.)

MARIO : Oh, she forgot this.

RIC : What is it Mario?

MARIO : The lady who was here a while ago --- she forgot her compact. She'll
probably comeback.

RIC : Well Tirso, I'm sorry, but I must take that phone call.

TIRSO : I'll be seeing you, Ric. I'll walk around the corner and wait for that friend
of mine. ( Ric is going toward the office.) And Ric----

RIC : Yes?

TIRSO : I've found out something.

RIC : What?

TIRSO : That a woman doesn't always pay. Sometimes the man does, too. (Ric
bursts our laughing.)

RIC : The voice of acid experience.

TIRSO : Experiences, rather. So long, Ric.

RIC : So long.

(Ric enter the office. Tirso is about to go. Mario coughs significantly.)

TIRSO : What is it?

MARIO : Your coffee/

TIRSO : Oh, How much is it?

MARIO : 150 pesos.

(Tirso gives her the money and goes out, rear. Maria picks upt the compact again,
shrugs her shoulder, put it on the table. Felisa and David enter. Felisa is thin, small and
a very domineering . Her husband is quite big, but very phlegmatic. Felisa carries
umbrella which she handles as it were a bazooka. She likes to emphasize a point of her
conversation by waving the umbrella in the air. Her voice is quite and unpleasant. Her
husband, however, doesn't speak at all throughout the play.)

FELISA : Taking me to the show tonight and with that drizzle on. Suppose I catch
a cold? Do you have enough money to pay the doctor and buy medicine.
No, of course not! You never have enough money to spend on me.

MARIO : what will you have?

FELISA : What will I have? Coffee of course.

MARIO : and the gentleman?

FELISA : Coffee too!

MARIO : Anything more?

FELISA : Are you trying to soak us? We just want coffee absolutely nothing
 more.

MARIO : Very well.

FELISA : Make it snappy! I might catch a cold . I've just been in the rain.

MARIO : (Nothing that her umbrella is dripping.) do you mind if I put you
umbrella near the door? It's dripping on the floor.

FELISA :Put it near the door! What for --- so somebody can swipe it? Certainly not!
I'll keep it here.

MARIO : But the floor---

FELISA : Well, why blame me if your floor is dirty? Have it cleaned first thing in the
morning!

MARIO : Er- I for what you ordered.

FELISA : A fine restaurant this is! Forgetting our orders! I ordered coffee for two!

MARIO :Ah, yes.

FELISA : Who's the owner of this restaurant? Call him!

MARIO : I am.

FELISA : Oh you are? Well never mind. (Mario goes out with an air of martyrdom
on his face.) I'll blame if I catch a cold tonight. I told you I didn't want to go
to the show tonight --- I wanted it last night. But no, you were
stubborn and insisted tonight. And what picture did we see tonight not Xian
Lim's but Empoy's. You knew they were to change program tonight--
thats why you insisted on going! Empoy! Indeed! He isn't handsome
he isn't good looking he isn't even attractive! And you take me to
see him! Xian Lim --- ahm there's my idol! He's handsome, He's
romantic-looking, hes attractive! He stands for romance,
exotic, passionate romance! And Empoy -- what does he stands for?
Nothing, nothing! Just a common actor with no looks at all, with no attraction at
all just try and take another picture of Empoy--- just try it
David, just try it. You won't get a breakfast for one whole week! Just try it, I'm
telling you! Why do you sit there like a post, without saying a word? Are
you trying to humiliate me in public? Take that paper off your face,
David! And look at the way you dressed -- -- Look at your coat ----
couldn't you use cleaner suit? And your pants- ---- look, look, full of mud!
And the horrid tie-- I told you I detested the color of that tie--- I told you
many times. But you never pay attention to me! And you said before
we were married that you love me! Love me indeed! If you really and
truly love me, you'd do exactly as I tell you! And do you? No, never,
never! You always like to follow your own street will! Plain stubborn,
that's what you are! So selfish, so opinionated! Always insisting
you're right! As if I, your poor wife, couldn't be right at times! But no, Im
never right. I'm always wrong-- always! Why doesn't she bring in the coffee?
What a restaurant! Such poor service! And look at these flowers ---
plain, common orchids! Oh , horrid flowers with no smell at all! Why
don't they use roses? Roses are beautiful, they are sweet, they cheer up the
room. Yes, and they'll cheer you up too, David, instead of sitting there
like a piece of wood ! Speak up, why don't you say something?
Naturally you can't contradict me this time, because I'm right. I am always
right, but you never give me a credit for intelligence, do you? No,
you always think you are right! Well, It's good to know that you agree
with this time. Where's that coffee? (shouting.) Where's that coffee? Hurry
up! We can't stay here all night! (Mario enters with the coffee.) Well, it was
about time! After all we pay. You know and I like service to be quick
and efficient . Good heavens, it takes you so long! Just for a cup of
coffee! Ha! I wonder if I had ordered some salad! It would probably
take you three days! (to Mario). Be careful, be careful! You want to spill that
pot on me? You want to burn me, don't you? Yes, I can see it in your
eyes! You're angry because I'm giving you advice piece of advice. Well,
don't be so arrogant, Old man. Take advice humbly. It's good for
everybody to have its faults corrected--- Where's the sugar?
Oh, here it is.(horrified) oh! An ant-- two ants! Two ants in this sugar bowl!
Don't you know you can be arrested for being insanitary? You want me
and my dear husband to get killed? Do you-- do you? See ,you don't
answer! You're like my husband! You're both two pieces
statues! I refuse to use this sugar! Get me another, quick! Well,
why don't you defend yourself? Why don't you answer? You can't.
You can't because you are guilty! Yes , you deliberately put
those two ants in the bowldon't deny it! I saw it! (Maria patiently gets
another bowl from another table. Felisa screams) Ouch! Oh!
Oh! This coffee is boiling! Hey , you , you did that
deliberately too! Trying to burn my lips! Don't you stand here looking at
me! Deny it! Deny it! (Mario goes out, tearing her hair.) Did you see that
David? Did you see how she humiliated me here-- in public place?
Say s something , you idiot, say something! Why don't you stand up and
hold her in the collars and demand an explanation why don't you?
(David, in turning over the page he's reading, unconsciously raises
his arms. Felisa screams. David doesnt even bother to look at her.)
don't you dare pick up with that man here-- in public! The
humiliations I've had to go through tonight! Just you wait when we
get home, just you wait! Trying to sock that waitress for such a trivial thing!
You've always been like that, so complaining about trifles! Curb your
temper! I don't know why you married me-- I mean, why I married
you! I was so happy at home, with my mother--- I could do as I
please. And since I married you , what liberty have I had? I can't do
anything I want, its always you who wants to get his own sweet way.

(Nina enters, rear, she's twenty-eight years old, older than Isabel. And yet looking
younger, perhaps because she's shorty and because of her delicate piquant features.
She's the kind of woman who arouses the protective instinct in some men, although this
type can usually take good if herself. Her expressions is serious, even a trifle sad. She
is dressed to extreme simplicity, wearing no jewel at all. She speaks in a low, husky
voice. The moment she enters, Felisa starts and stares at her with insolent eyes . Nina
looks about, then goes straight to the center table. Her eyes search the table, then
finding her compact she picks it up. Felisa utters a loud Oh. She stands up goes to
Nina.)

FELISA : Young woman, what are 'you' doing?

NINA : (staring at her briefly, with a curious expression.) I forgot my compact

here tonight.

FELISA : How do you 'know' that is your compact?

NINA :(shrugging her shoulders, amused.) It has my name on it. Nina.(Felisa

 takes a look at it , but is convinced.)

FELISA : How can you prove you're Nina?

(Nina annoyed this time, stares at her contemptuously and gives her the cold shoulder.
David has turned now and is staring at the new arrival. Nina goes to rear door, suddenly
stops, She opens the compact and finding her hair in need of a little fixing, she looks
towards the Ladies' Room and goes in. Felisa goes back to her table. She finds David
still looking Nina's direction.)

FELISA : Well! What are you staring at?(David nonchalantly turns back to reading
the paper.) You were attracted by that woman! So being down
right , unfaithful right in front of your dear wife! What did you marry me
for? Wasn't it for better or for worse? And now I catch you looking at
another woman---a woman who looks so cheap, and
common! Why don't you answer me? Say something!

(David, exasperated, stands up. Seeing his empty cup of coffee, picks it up, stares at it.
Then smashes it on the floor. Felisa gasps. Mario, all excited. Seeing the broken cup,
her gesture towards them.)

MARIO : You must pay for it!

FELISA : (Coolly.) It fell off the table.

MARIO : Feel of the table?! And smashed to a thousand pieces! When a cup falls
off a table, it breaks into five or ten pieces. But thousands of
pieces?!

FELISA :Never mind your scientific possibilities. It fell, I said.

MARIO : You're lying! You must dropped it forcefully!

FELISA : Calling me a liar?! Accusing me?!----

(David picks up the other cup, hurts it violently to the floor, then slowly taking his hat and
paper, strides away. While passing Ladies' Room he stops and his head turns in that
direction, then hurriedly goes out.)

MARIO : Pay me or I call a police! You both delinquently characters!

FELISA : (Seeing her husband gone and the words she heard from him, her
attitude becomes gentle and her voice soft.) Oh, my husband hes
going away! I cant live without him. David, David, wait for me! The object
of my happiness is leaving me! (Cooing) David, David wait for me!
(Opening the bag) Heretake this! Well never come here again
me and my poor dear, dear husband.

(Felisa goes out. Mario starts picking up the broken cups and cleaning the table and
enter the kitchen. Isabel and Nina come out of the Ladie's Room)

NINA : Thanks for lending me your comb. Im such a forgetful person. Always
forgetting something everywhere I go. Now a hankie, now a
compact. Once, I forgot my bag with all my salaries in it. (Laughs)

ISABEL : Nothing unusual really. Who doesnt forget things occasionally!

NINA : Ah, but in my case itd habitual. (They have approached the table.)
Tonight for instance, I forgot my compact on this very table.
(Laughing again) Oh, what a head.

ISABEL : (Notices the coffee.) The coffee. Wouldnt you please join me?

NINA : No thanks, I must go now.

ISABEL : Please. The coffee will get cold.

NINA : But you must be waiting for somebody.

ISABEL : My husband.

NINA : Then.

ISABEL : Oh, but hes phoning inside.

NINA : Really, Ill be bothering ---

ISABEL : Ni bother at all. Anyhow, keep me company till he comes out, wont you?

NINA : Well, you insist so charmingly ---

(Both sit down. A brief pause as Isabel pours the coffee. Isabel stares curiously at Nina.

ISABEL : You came from the show?

NINA : The one across the street? Yes.

ISABEL : My husband and I also came from there. I like it.

NINA : So did I . I was at home for somebody, but he didnt show up, so I
decided to take in a show.

ISABEL : Go ahead. Drink your coffee.

NINA : Thanks. (A brief pause)

ISABEL : May I know your name? You dont mind, do you?

NINA : Certainly not. Nina. And yours?

ISABEL : You can call me Isabel. My husband and I are celebrating our wedding
anniversary today.

NINA : Really? The first?

ISABEL : No, the third. I was married when I was twenty-two.

NINA : Well, I do wish you all the happiness in the years to come, Isabel.

ISABEL : Thank you Nina.

NINA : Any children?

ISABEL : (Stares at her briefly, lowers her eyes and said quietly.) Yes, a boy. He
was born eleven months ago.

NINA : Oh, he must be quite grown up now.

ISABEL : He died when he was two months of diphtheria.

NINA : Im sorry. (Pause as they slowly sip their coffees) It must be a blow.

ISABEL : It was. I havent quite recovered from it. (Tries to change the subject by
laughing awkwardly and raising her head.) We must talk about
other things Nina. (Turning over head towards the coffee) My husband is
taking such a long time to talk over the phone. He's a doctor, you know.

NINA : Doctors have so little time for themselves.

ISABEL : True. Just now hes treating a patient as it were by phone.

NINA : What do you mean?

ISABEL : The child of a friend of ours has diphtheria too. Like --- our' son. He was
at the childs house the whole day, but he had promised to take me
out tonight --- our anniversary, as I said he decided to keep in touch
with the childs father by phone.

NINA : Quite a strenuous life, I imagine.

ISABEL : For my husband?

NINA : (nods) And for you too.

ISABEL : For both of us.

NINA : But it must be worth it?

ISABEL : Worth it?

NINA : isnt it?

ISABEL : (After a brief hesitation) I guess it is. By the way, are you married ( Nina
reddens)

NINA : No --- not yet. But soon soon.

ISABEL : Whats he like?

NINA : His looks?

ISABEL : (laughing) No, no. Looks in a man are deceiving.

NINA : I think so too.

ISABEL : His character, I mean. His nature. --- You dont mind my asking, do you?

NINA : Indeed not, Isabel. Well , for one thing, hes always gay. He has an
indefinable child-like temperant --- a bit impulsive, irresponsible,
even unconditional. I cant express it in exact words, but only two words
seem to fit him. Boyishly charming.

ISABEL : Yes some men are like that. You've known him long?

NINA : About five months.

ISABEL : How did you meet him? Or am I being too personal?

NINA : Oh, I dont mind Isabel. One night I was taking my supper alone in the
restaurant, when he came in. He carried some papers in his hands.
I wouldnt have noticed him expect that there was an intense lonely
expression in his eyes. When he passed by my table, one of
the papers in his hands slipped off, falling right under my table.
Naturally I leaned down to pick it up and gave it to him. He thanked me
simply and looked at me. Are you alone? he asked. You dont mind if I
join you?

ISABEL : And he sat down?

NINA : Yes, and thats how it all started.

ISABEL : You must be quite happy?

NINA : An any woman in love can be.

ISABEL : Youre quite young. (Nina laughs)

NINA : I am twenty-eight.

ISABEL : I can hardly believe it. And yet Im only three years younger than you. But
then Ive been married three years, and you havent.

NINA : (unconsciously) Oh, but --- (Isabel not noticing Nina's hesitation, still
goes on)

ISABEL : Tell me more about yourself.

NINA : Id rather talk about him.

ISABEL : If you prefer.

NINA : As I said, he likes to do the unexpected. Once he was at home, and it

was raining lightly. How about walking in the rain? he said. I
laughed, so did he. I knew it was a crazy thing to do, but I nodded. We
put on our raincoats and sallied forth in the rain.

ISABEL : What a coincidence, Nina. My husband --- that is, when we were still
engaged --- made a similar suggestions.

NINA : Really?

ISABEL : It was a party. It was drizzling. I had a slight cold, but to please him, I
said yes. So we also walked in the rain. We were quite gay.
(Isabel's mood changes, and she looks serious now.) After we got
married, a few weeks after my childs death, my husband proposed
the same thing one night. But I told him it was quite silly. He never asked
me again.
NINA : Oh, but I think ---

ISABEL : Why did you stop?

NINA : You dont mind my saying so, do you? But I think it was quite a mistake
to have said no.

ISABEL : He looked disappointed, very much, so I thought. Its all right to do such
foolish things when one is young --- but when ones married

NINA : You dont mind if I disagree with you? I see no valid reason for changing
after marriage. Besides, most men retain something of the child all
their lives.

ISABEL : But such small things

NINA : (interrupts) Those small things, Isabel maybe quite important to many
men. Sometimes they can --- break a marriage.

ISABEL : Break a marriage?

NINA : Well, perhaps I exaggerate. Perhaps I should say small things can put
unnecessary barriers between a couple. And in time those barriers
can often become permanent and unassailable.

ISABEL : There may be something to what to say, Nina, and yet --- (Mario enters)

MARIO : You want more coffee, Seora?

ISABEL : No thanks. How about you Nina?

NINA : I like coffee, but it keeps me awake. And Ive to work early tomorrow.

ISABEL : (now talking to Mario) Is my husband still on the phone?

MARIO : Yes. The child, I gather, has high fever. The doctor is giving instructions -
--

ISABEL : I wish hed hurry. Its getting late.

MARIO : The doctor ordered steaks. Theyll be ready any minute now. (Notices
Nina) Oh, you forgot your compact tonight.

NINA : Yes, I came back.

MARIO : I left it where it was.

NINA : I found it. Thanks.

(Maria goes out)

ISABEL : (Getting a cigarette case from her bag.) Do you smoke Nina?

NINA : Occasionally.

ISABEL : Here take one. I was hesitating about offering you one.
NINA : Im not very fond of it, really. (Refusing) No, not now, Isabel, thanks.

ISABEL : (Lighting her cigarette) I always feel self-conscious about smoking in the
public.

NINA : Oh, I dont mind a bit. When I feel like smoking in the public, I smoke with
no apologetic airs. After all, the world doesnt help us when we are in
trouble, so why would we let public opinion guide our actions?

ISABEL : But, Nina, we cant always flaunt public opinion.

NINA : No, of course not. And please dont think Im trying to criticize you, but it
seems to me woman rely too much on what the world thinks of our
actions?

ISABEL : Only woman?

NINA : Well, some men too. However, most men seem less self-conscious
about public opinion. And the men who rely too much on it
somehow dont amount too much. I cant help comparing such men to
the light of candles made of inferior wax --- dim, pale, flickering. Like
living cadavers. (Isabel laughs)

ISABEL : What an apt description, Nina. However I dont think that description
would fit my husband.

NINA : And he neither.

ISABEL : He?

NINA : The man I love.

ISABEL : Oh.

NINA : Whats your husbands name by the way, Isabel.

(Mario enters so suddenly and so noisily that Isabel doesnt hear the question.)

MARIO : The doctor says hes coming presently. It seems the child is getting
worse.

ISABEL : Thanks. (Mario goes out.) You were saying something when she came
in.

NINA : What? Oh, Ive forgotten.

ISABEL : We might have interrupt our anniversary party tonight. My husband might
have to go and see his patient.

NINA : Did you say the patient has diphtheria?

ISABEL : Yes. I can still see my own child, sick with the same thing. Feverish
delirious gasping for breath the unbearable sight of seeing him
suffocating despite the oxygen and without either his father
or me being able to do anything to help him.(Closes her eyes and there is
a long pause, Nina remains silent but a sympathetic listener.) Here I
am again, talking about unpleasant things.

NINA : Certain memories might be sad, Isabel, but never unpleasant.

ISABEL : Thanks Nina.

NINA : Ive been admiring your jewels. That bracelet especially, very attractive.

ISABEL : Are you fond of jewels?

NINA : (Pausing before speaking, very gently). Im afraid not Isabel. I seldom
wear any. But I admire it in others.

ISABEL : My husbands presents, all these.

NINA : My fianc gave me striking pair of earrings, but Ive never worn them.

ISABEL : Why?

NINA : I dont know, Isabel. Merely a matter of individual preference, I suppose.

ISABEL : What did he say?

NINA : Who?

ISABEL : Your fianc.

NINA : He merely laughed. Kissing me he said, I admire simplicity in a

woman.

ISABEL : He must be a fine person.

NINA : He is.

ISABEL : What does he do?

NINA : Frankly, I dont know for sure. I think hes in business. He asks me not to
be curious.

ISABEL : Where do you live, by the way, Nina? You live alone?

NINA : I live in an apartment. And yes, now, I live alone. I have a married sister
who wants me to stay with her, but its rather far from my
workplace. I prefer my apartment.

ISABEL : Do you feel lonesome?

NINA : Not at all. He comes often. You see, I work in a newspaper office. Im in
the advertising department.

ISABEL : Why you are alone tonight?

NINA : He was supposed to come tonight, but this afternoon he sent a note.
(Opening the bag) Here it is. (Reading).

Nina dearest,
Sorry I cant make it tonight. Something very important came up. Will explain later. (Puts
the note back in her bag)

ISABEL : How I envy you. It must be exciting.

NINA : But I envy you, Isabel. Youre already married.

ISABEL : Yes --- but ---

NINA : I dont want to intrude your private life, but dont tell me yours isnt a
happy marriage?

ISABEL : Yes --- and no.

NINA : (laughing) When a woman answers that way, theres one conclusion: its
a no.

ISABEL : Id rather not to talk about it.

NINA : As you wish Isabel.

(Isabel opens her bag and looks at herself in the mirror. The bag slips off the table and
drops on the floor, spilling its contents. A small knife drops out. Nina picks it up and hold
it for moment.)

NINA : Why do you carry this knife, Isabel?

ISABEL : Just in case.

NINA : Just in case what? (Isabel embarrassed, keeps silent.) Oh, Isabel, dont
tell me you would ---

ISABEL : Ive always thought that if my husband ---

NINA : You mean --- youll go to the extent of --- that is your husband ---

ISABEL : Yes --- and no, Nina

NINA : Quite ambiguous answer.

ISABEL : (holding the knife) if I knew my husband were unfaithful.

NINA : But jealousy, Isabel, shouldnt be unreasonable.

ISABEL : Is that feeling ever unreasonable?

NINA : What I mean is this if the person whom we love strays away --- theres
no use breaking our heart over it.

ISABEL : And the sense of revenge?

NINA : More realistically, the sense of wounded personal vanity.

ISABEL : I couldnt bear to think that my husband could belong to some other
woman.
NINA : A man could desire to other woman --- and yet love his wife.

ISABEL : Its quite comprehensible to me.

NINA : To most of us men, Ill admit. In the mind of most men, love occupies
several compartments of which only a special one he might place
all his capacity for true love. We women put all our love in one single
compartment to our regret.

ISABEL : Are you suggesting we women should follow such callous procedure?

NINA : (laughing) It isnt something callous, I assure you, Isabel. Its never
pleasant, I admit, to our pride to lose the exclusive affection of
someone we love. But we forget --- that some men and women, too
are born without a sense of consistent faithfulness. Its part of their
natural make- up, like the color ones eyes or the shape of ones
eyes or the shape of ones hands.

ISABEL : Youre implying that we women also follow mens disloyalties?

NINA : Indeed not, Isabel! Oh no! Some men can afford to be unfaithful simply
because their sense of irresponsibility makes them think they lose
nothing. But for us women --- to be unfaithful is helpless losing fight.

ISABEL : You mean then by that, if the person we love is unfaithful, we should be
indifferent about it?

NINA : Certainly not, Isabel! I only mean --- that if you --- or I remember what I
told you well, we cant be hurt --- too much.

ISABEL : Really, Nina, its the very first time Ive talked to anyone about these
things.

NINA : Youve led a rather sheltered life, havent you?

(Isabel smiles sheepishly, and nods. She looks at herself in the hand mirror.)

ISABEL : Im quite pale. My husband will think Im anemic. (Searching in her bag,
laughs.) Ive forgotten my rouge.

NINA : (Giving hers) Here --- use this. Its the latest thing. It blends perfectly with
the skin.

ISABEL : Thanks, Nina.

(Isabel rouges her skin. Maria enters with a tray and steaks.)

MARIO : At last!

ISABEL : Im afraid Im not so hungry anymore. Would you care to join us, Nina?
Im sure my husband will find your company very interesting.

NINA : No, Isabel, really I must go. Thanks just the same. (Stand up)

MARIO : The doctor is coming any minute now. He had to make other call for
some sort of consultation with another doctor. (Goes out.)
ISABEL : I like this rouge, Nina.

NINA : Incidentally, you havent told me your full name.

ISABEL : Isabel de Castro.

NINA : (starts slightly) And your husbands?

ISABEL : Dr. Ric de Castro.

(Isabel hasnt noticed that Nina, at hearing the name, has become pale. Nina stares at
Isabel with an incredible expression. She sits down again and keeps staring at Isabel.)

NINA : (chockingly) What did you say your --- husbands name ---- was?

ISABEL : (Putting down the mirror) Dr. Ric de Castro. (Notices Nina's stare) You ---
know him?

(Nina remains silent, but in flash their intuition tell them its name of the same man they
love. Isabel, her eyes on Nina, stands up slowly. Ric de Castro strides in. He begins
talking from the door. He doesnt see Nina at first.)

RIC : Oh, Isabel, I awfully sorry --- the child is quite serious --- I see you have
company.(Hearing this voice, though without seeing him, Nina
realizes Isabels husband is the same man shes in love with. In
complete shame and confusion she avoids his eyes. Upon seeing her,
Ric loses his usual poise and become speechless. Both women look
away, while he looks from one to the other. His voice is more than a
whisper.)

RIC : Nina ---- what are you doing here?

(Nina stands up, not daring to face him. Ric looks at his wife who also keeps her eyes
averted.)

NINA : (with concealed bitterness in her voice) I keep asking myself the same
question --- now.

(Nina turns abruptly and controlling her tears, she dashes into the street. Isabel keeps
her eyes down, trying to hide her hurt. She moves forward to the right. Ric remained in
his place. A long pause.)

RIC : You know --- her?

ISABEL : (smiling bitterly and looks at him significantly) Everything.

RIC : How did she --- happen to be --- here?

ISABEL : By accident. She forgot her compact on the table we met in the Ladies
Room. She borrowed my comb ---- the coffee was on the table.

RIC : What did she say?

ISABEL : About whom? (Looking at him briefly, then looking away again) We got
acquainted. Thats the irony of it. We were talking --- about my
husband and she about --- the man she loved. We never mentioned
names until --- (changing her tone) And our third wedding
anniversary, too. One would have done it on purpose. (Pause) I
should be thankful for.

RIC : For what?

ISABEL : You have --- taste, Ric.

RIC : (thinking shes being sarcastic, feels more embarrassed) Oh, Isabel.

ISABEL : Shes nice much too nice for that kind of woman.

RIC : Be fair, Isabel.

ISABEL : (flaring up) I am being fair, Ric. I always thought such kind of women
were --- cheap and gaudy and vulgar. She is not. I must
congratulate you. (Starts picking her bag)

RIC : What are you going to do?

ISABEL : You dont expect me to go home with you now, do you?

RIC : Where do you intend to go?

ISABEL : To my mothers. A natural thing to do, dont you think? You were
supposed to meet her tonight. She read to me the note.

(Mario enters)

MARIO : Doctor Mr. Misa on the phone he wants to know if youre coming
his child is seriously ill.

RIC : Tell him I already called Dr. Balmori hes on his way there.

MARIO : But its you he wants, doctor!

RIC : Tell him Ill be there presently!

(Mario goes out. Isabel is about to go. Ric grab her bag, puts it on the table. Then he
grasps her arm roughly. Isabel winces with pain.)

ISABEL : Ric, youre hurting me!

RIC : We both have been hurt already.

ISABEL : Let go, Ric!

RIC : (slowly releases her pressure) You must listen to me!

ISABEL : Whats there to say? Ive been supplanted, thats all.

RIC : No, that isnt all!

ISABEL : No?

RIC : Hard as you may find to believe me I still love you.

ISABEL : A strange notion of love you have, Ric.

RIC : No --- let me explain (stops) Why are words sometimes so inadequate
to express ones inner feelings?

(Isabel stands, her head held up defiantly, without looking at him. Ric goes to her and
puts his hand on her shoulders. She stiffens and draw away.)

RIC : Please, Isabel believe me --- it wasnt a sordid love affair. (Isabel,
unconvinced, smiles.) I met Nina in a moment of unbearable,
desperate loneliness.

ISABEL : Most men, I imagine, use the same excuse ---

RIC : --- a loneliness brought about by your own indifference your coldness --

ISABEL : My indifference?

RIC : Unconscious, perhaps, but it was there just the same. When our baby
died you changed. The changed wasnt abrupt

ISABEL : I wanted my baby more than anything else.

RIC : (angry) More than you wanted me?

ISABEL : How can you say that?

RIC : Your change was insidious revealed at odd moments moments of

intimacy a kiss or an embrace passionately given and coldly
returned -

ISABEL : My grief

RIC : And mine? I needed much comfort as you did.

ISABEL : I asked you to call another doctor

RIC : Our child would have died the same.

ISABEL : I wonder.

RIC : Was that the resentment you had against me?

ISABEL : No --- no, Ric.

RIC : (Lowering his voice) I am a doctor and a busy one. Ive my worries and
disappointments like anybody else. Before we had a child you were
an ideal partner you were gay and we liked to do many things
together.

ISABEL : One grows --- and stops doing things that look well, things that dont
seem proper. (He looks at her slowly)

RIC : Thus you must then excuse my relationship with Nina.

ISABEL : You intend to continue --- your friendship with her?

RIC : Thats for you to decide.

ISABEL : For --- me?

RIC : Ive given you the facts. Its up to you to choose your conclusions.

ISABEL : You still --- love her?

RIC : Thats difficult to answer.

ISABEL : Why?

RIC : She gives me what my wife doesnt --- now.

ISABEL : I cant stand that idea --- having belonged to another woman, I cant

RIC : Your pride, naturally.

ISABEL : My self-respect.

RIC : When a wife fulfills her duties ---

ISABEL : You mean to imply that I --- drove you to her?

RIC : Id rather not commit myself.

ISABEL : And if Nina --- doesnt want to (Mario enters.)

MARIA : Please doctor --- Mr. Misa again on the phone he insists on talking to
you

(Ric looks at his wife, and then follow Maria to the office. Nina enters and seeing Isabel
stops. Slowly she threads her way to the table and picks up her bag. Isabel turns.)

NINA : (Embarrassed) My bag. (Nina walks away and is now near the rear
door.)

ISABEL : Nina. (Nina stops.) What do you intend to do?

NINA : (turning slightly but without looking at her.) I dont know. Go away, I
suppose.

ISABEL : Where? (Nina advances closer to Isabel)

NINA : Anywhere. It doesnt matter. (Pause) Has he said anything --?

ISABEL : Ric? (Nina nods) He didnt say anything --- about you.

NINA : Then it would be useless to see him. Besides, I couldnt face him now.

ISABEL : Why?

NINA : (Hesitatingly) I --- dont know. (Fiercely) I just couldnt see him now!
(Isabel, in an effort to keep her poise, plays with her jewels.)

ISABEL : May --- I ask you --- one question?

NINA : What is it?

ISABEL : You --- still --- love --- Ric?

NINA : (looking at her) You ask me --- that?

ISABEL : I had to know. (Nina sits down quietly.) Do you? (Suddenly Nina,
leaning her head on the table, breaks into quite sobs.)

NINA : Deep in my heart --- yes. (She continues weeping as if her heart would
break. Isabel goes wear her and looks at her for a moment. Then
she looks down at the bag shes holding, and a strange expression
comes into her eyes. She opens her bag slightly, gets the knife and stares at it
briefly. Holding the knife, she approaches Nina from back. But hearing her
sobs, Isabels eyes, glowing the hate, just a suddenly soften. She slowly
puts the knife back in the bag. Then she touches Nina on the shoulders.)

ISABEL : What words can I say, Nina, to comfort you? (Nina stands up rather
brusquely)

NINA : Thanks. I dont need your pity.

ISABEL : I dont mean to ---

NINA : I understand. Im sorry. But thanks just the same.

ISABEL : Tell me --- will you continue ---

NINA : Loving Ric? (A brief pause.) No. You need not worry. You can be sure of
yourself now, Isabel. Ric is your husband. Youve the power over
him that I havent.

ISABEL : Just tell me Nina!

NINA : No, really I dont. But you possess him --- always will.

ISABEL : (Quietly) so did you.

NINA : Once.

ISABEL : And Im not sure of him --- now.

NINA : Why not?

ISABEL : You.

NINA : You need not to worry about me, I said.

ISABEL : Perhaps not --- and yet --- some day he might ---

NINA : Im not going to fight for him.

ISABEL : Arent you?

NINA : It isnt worth it.

ISABEL : Ric, you mean?

NINA : I didnt mean to put it that way. What I mean is that it isnt worth all the
anxiety and the heartbreak. An affair like ours is too flimsy --- and
eventually itll lead to a useless, futile end. Wouldnt it?

ISABEL : My answer wouldnt be quite fair.

NINA : No --- but deep inside you know it. You see, you may laugh if I tell you
something.

ISABEL : Go ahead.

NINA : I too retain some ideals. Ric made me believe he wasnt married.

ISABEL : He promised to marry you?

NINA : Not exactly. Really. I dont care. I was happy with him. I really thought he
was single. If he were, I wouldnt mind fighting for him --- but
married, no.

ISABEL : May I know ---?

NINA : You see, I was marries --- once.

ISABEL : Oh.

NINA : My husband and I live apart. When I met Ric I thought that at last I found
the man could be happy with. And I was. But I want the man I love
to be mine alone.

ISABEL : And if my husband insist on going back ---

NINA : My door will be closed to him.

ISABEL : I dont know what to do.

NIN : What do you have to fear? Your hold over him is too deep for outer
touch. You lost Ric temporarily, perhaps through your own fault. I
dont know. He never mentioned you, of course. But if he still wants you,
take him back. Before the break becomes hopelessly complete.
(pause) Will you please give these keys to him?

ISABEL : Keys?

NINA : To my apartment. I shall not need them now.

ISABEL : Where you intend to go?

NINA : To my sisters --- oh yes, please give this to him. (She gets a small
notebook, tears off a page, then hastily scribbles down a few words.
Isabel takes the note and the keys.)

ISABEL : Dont go yet.

NINA : Why not call it by its right name? False pride. (Isabel is hurt by the
sarcasm in her words, but pretends not to notice it.

ISABEL : How can I take him back now --- knowing that you ---
NINA : Ric is your husband you nearly lost him its up to you to win him
back.

ISABEL : Can I?

NINA : Self-pity doesnt become you.

ISABEL : Somehow --- I almost hate him now.

NINA : I see your complacent sense of possession has deserted you.

ISABEL : Youve been such a kind person, Nina ---

NINA : Yes, that was before --- I knew. I love Ric --- and Ive lost him. I too
cherished some dreams Ric and I made, but those illusions, like
loose petals, are now scattered. (Bitterly) I may not a common woman,
Isabel, but I cant afford to be a noble! (She goes to the door.)

ISABEL : (quietly) you --- love Ric?

NINA : (Smiling enigmatically) I always will --- deep in my heart. (Nina turns and
leaves hurriedly, rear. On Isabels face can be seen that terrific
inner struggle shes undergoing. She looks at the keys and tosses them
and the letter on the table. Her eyes drifts towards the office where Ric is
calling. Suddenly, with an almost defiant air, she strides out.)

(The light grow dim. Maria enters. She stand puzzled as she sees the food hasnt been
touched. He looks around, walks to the rear door, looks out and not seeing the women,
she shrugs her shoulders. She removes the screen to the corner. She is preparing to
remove the dishes, when Ric, with an utterly dejected expression, comes out.)

MARIO : Doctor --- arent you going to eat?

RIC : Wheres Isabel?

MARIO : She left.

RIC : Left where?

MARIO : She isnt around --- Hows the child doctor? (Ric slumps in the chair.)

RIC : (Dully) The child is --- dead. (Maria merely looks down and is about to go
to the kitchen.) Maria --- have you got some whisky?

MARIO : Yes doctor. Right away, right away. (Maria goes out. Suddenly Ric
notices the keys on the table, and the letter. He reads it aloud.)
Ric Here are the keys. Take your wife back shes worthy of you. The illusions I give
you but the dreams my dreams I shall keep gentle -- , unforgotten, unfilled
Nina.

(Ric crushes the letter in his hands, and remains staring into space. After a long pause,
Isabel appears at the rear door. Slowly she walks towards him. Seeing somebody
beside him, Ric merely glances up briefly at her. For a few seconds, neither speaks.)

ISABEL : (almost in whisper) Ric ---

RIC : The child is dead. (Isabel looks at him, then impulsively kneels down and
embracing him, she breaks into sobs. Ric holds her head and kisses her
brow. He rises and raises his wife up. ) Shall we go home now?
(Isabel just nods.)

ISABEL : The childs mother shouldnt we visit her?

RIC : Visit her?

ISABEL : The mother might need comfort.

RIC : Do you want to? (Again Isabel simply nods.) Its raining.

ISABEL : Remember --- once? (Ric smilingly nods his head.)

RIC : Would you want to ---?

ISABEL : Walk in the rain?

RIC : Would you?

(Isabels answer is a shy smile. Hand in hand they go out. The stage is empty for a
moment. Mario enters hurriedly with a tray and not finding Ric, disappointedly bangs the
tray on the table. She runs to rear door and seeing them walking in the rain, she
scratches her head.
The clock slowly strikes twelve. Maria takes out his pocket watch, keeps scratching her
head, and beams a broad smile.)

CURTAIN

MODIFICATION

There was only person playing the role of TIRSO and DAVID due to lack of personnel.
We changed MARIO to MARIA
We changed XIAN LIM to ENRIQUE GIL which was found in page five.
DOCUMENTATION