## SCENE ONE

The small living room in the apartment of the Crespo family on Riverside Drive, New York City, an afternoon in January, 1937. The room is crowded with evidences of Yucatan, messy but comfortable. On the walls are family pictures, especially one of Don Alonso Tuero. Outside, it is cold winter. Frost and sleet are at the windows, and the sky is dismal.

DONA CANDITA - the sweet-bird-like mother of the family, sits listening raptly to the vespers music on the radio.

MARUCA, the old servant, comes in, having heard the music from the kitchen.

Maruca

(With a happy, incredulous smile)

Dona Candita

Dona Candita

Sh, Maruca! It is from the Church of the Sorrows. The vespers music.

Maruca

I could not believe! So beautiful!

(They both listen. The music dims down as they talk)

Dona Candita

Yes, Maruca, it is beautiful. I was there -- in that very church, the same one, this morning. But this is different, It seems to come from far away.

Maruca

(Protesting)

Up the Riverside Drive, it is but a step, Senora. A few blocks only.

Dona Candita

Farther, farther! Not from New York, this cold, cold country -- this, this -- No, no, the music seems not from here.

1-2

Maruca

It makes the Senora think of Yucatan.

Dona Candita

Yes, home. The Cathedral in the Plaza Grande where we
used to go. So long ago.

Maruca

(Comfortingly)

Not so long.

Dona Candita

Too long.

Maruca

Senora. Do not cry.

New York is a fine city.

Dona Candita

Yes, it is fine.

Maruca

Your dear husband, your children are here. This is home
now.

Dona Candita

Home, yes. I am happy. It has happened like this. It
must be the will of our dear Lord, of the Blessed Virgin.

This morning on the Drive -- at six -- it was snowing --
I gave the pigeons some scraps of bread from my pocket.

They followed me. I am happy here. I am content.

(She breaks down)

I will go to my room now.

(She gets up)

Maruca

(Touched and distressed)

Dona Candita. Do not be unhappy. You know we cannot go
back to Yucatan. Mexico is in revolution. We would all
be murdered.

Dona Candita

(Smiling, more cheerful)

Maruca -- how far behind you are! They say I am a child
-- even my children they laugh at me. I have borne four
children, and they tell me I have a child's mind! But
you -- you are a little Nina in the cradle, Maruca! The
Revolution was over many, many years ago.

Maruca

Senora!

Dona Candita

Twenty years ago. Even I know that. There is peace in
Mexico.

Even I know that.

There is peace in
Mexico.

1-3

Maruca

Then why do we stay here?

Dona Candita

My husband, Don Severo, wants to stay. He wants to be
a great surgeon.

Maruca

Why?

Dona Candita

Why? Do not ask the ways of men. Men are very strange. In Yucatan, we could be so happy, so happy! And warm, Maruca. It is so warm there now -- with flowers opening at night and miles of the green hemp! I will pray that we go back. I would never do it -- but lately my husband seems to feel all is hopeless, so difficult.

Maruca

I have notice' that.

Dona Candita

He used to walk with a springing step, and his eyes
glittered and he was very proud and joyous. But lately
......! Oh, I think he would leave in a minute! I will
pray now -- this instant!

(She starts, remembers, draws out a
little fancy bottle)

Maruca - this morning at the church, I got this holy water.
Just now I sprinkled some about the room here -- and see!
That is why the radio suddenly began to give us the vespers
music! Jazz it was playing before -- very sinful --
swing, they call it! But a few drops only -- like this --!

(She sprinkles a little about)

Maruca

Verdad?

Dona Candita

Oh yes, it is so, it is a miracle, Maruca! If I sprinkle
now a little bit of the holy water in my husband's room
-- who knows? Perhaps his heart will be changed, and we
can go back to the Hacienda, back to beautiful Techoh.
You think this is foolish, Maruca?

Maruca

No, no, no, Senora! In that way I cured a toothache last
week. And also a roast can be made to cook in an hour --
I know this by experience. Of course I believe!

Dona Candita

Dear good Maruca -- you are the only one who understands
me. The others make such fun of me.

1-4

Maruca

Senorita Pilar does not make fun of you.

Dona Candita

No. Pilar believes in The church, as she was taught.
But the others!

Maruca

You must not mind the younger ones teasing you.

Dona Candita

I do not mind. I am only afraid for their souls, Maruca.
My babies must not be lost. Oh, I must be a very sinful
woman to have let my darling children become such mockers
and scoffers!

Maruca

You are not sinful.

Dona Candita

Yes - I will pray for them.

Maruca

You needn't pray for <u>la nina Pilar</u>, Senora. <u>She</u> does not scoff.

Dona Candita

No. Pilar is a good girl. She will manage.

Maruca

Her grandfather, Don Alonso Tuero, would be proud of her.
Proud!

(She studies Don Alonso's portrait)

The Tueros were a great, great family, Senora! It shows
in the face.

Dona Candita

(Coming over)

Pilar is <u>like</u> her grandfather. Her mouth is the same.

Maruca

Her will is the same.

Dona Candita

(With a little laugh)

And her temper! To think such a strong girl should come
from such a weak vessel! Truly, it is miraculous, Maruca.
I will never get over it.

Maruca

You are laughing, Senora! How good it is to hear!

Dona Candita

(Softly, happily)

1-5

Dona Candita (Cont'd.)

I am seeing such things! The flowers under the snow, I
can smell them, Maruca! A ship blown into safe harbor,
the harbor of Progreso. Sunlight slants and falls --
through clouds, through leaves, upon the floor of the
Cathedral. It touches the face, the pitiful wounds, the
body of joy! We must have something special, something
Yucatecan for supper tonight!

Maruca

Si, si, Senora! Si. Frijol con puerco.

Dona Candita

Yes! And the papazul I was making for Sunday! I will go
now -- and sprinkle the holy water.

(GRAZIELA - CHELA - comes in, flinging
aside her coat. She is dark, young,
lively. The radio switches, after a
short muttered announcement, to a rhumba.)

Chela

Mamacita!

(She kisses her rapturously)

Little mother! Look at her, Maruca, she looks about ten
-- twelve at most. And the smile! Somebody's been giving
her a new doll.

Dona Candita

Where have you been?

Chela

(Mockingly)
"Where have I been?"

Rehearsal, baby, rehearsal.

Dona Candita

What is rehearsal?

Chela

It's a very naughty word -- and you wouldn't understand.
Oh, mama -- it's wonderful! I have a dance number -- and
I'm to do a song all by myself -- something like that one.
Think of it!

(She begins to hum and dance to the
radio)

Maruca

What's happened to the radio?

(DONA CANDITA merely lifts her hands
and eyes in resignation to the caprices
of heaven, and starts to go. MARUCA
goes out into the kitchen.)

Chela

Mama, imagine! I am just an amateur yet they give me a
chance like this! Isn't it wonderful?

1-6

(TRINO comes in, drawing materials and a canvas under his arm. He is dark and rather shy, a little somber. A sullen and searching fire is in him.)

Dona Candita

If you are happy, it is wonderful.
(She goes out)

Trino

What's wonderful, Chela?

Chela

(Seizing him)

Oh, Trino darling! Berman says I get the job! I'm going to sing, I'm going to dance!

Trino

Chela! What do you know! Tell me all about it!

Chela

At the audition I was scared wall-eyed, and my legs knocked. Whew! Just to think of it!

Trino

I know.

Chela

But it must have been all right, because Berman said, "Honey, you get the job. Why, kid, you're a combination of Lupe Velez, Libby Holman, and somebody I met in a whore-house in Rio". Then he gave me a pat on the fanny and said, "Scram, beautiful. Come back tomorrow at ten - in shorts."

Trino

Why shorts?

Chela

I don't know. My legs, I guess.

Trino

Sounds tough enough.

Chela

Oh, it's tough, I guess, Trino. But you have to start somewhere. It's a job.

Trino

Yes, honey, you did it. Now you're going to be famous! What did I tell you!

Chela

Oh, I don't know, Trino. It takes a long time and I'm just starting and --- What's that?

1-7

Just a picture. Trino

Let's see. Chela

Flowers. Trino

Oh, it's beautiful! Chela

Trino

Pretty, I guess. But what of it?

Chela

You're an artist, that's what of it!

Trino

It doesn't seem to matter. With the horrible things going on in the world.

(Genuinely troubled)

This morning -- did you see the headlines? How can Spain go on -- our own people, brothers almost - how can they have the heart to struggle on against such odds? The Fascist powers allied against them. Bombs from the air tearing them apart. It's sickening!

Chela

Don't think of it, little brother. You can't do anything -- so try to forget it. What does Locher say about you?

Trino

Oh. (Impatiently)

Chela

Tell me.

Trino

He says I have talent.

Chela

Of course you have! Hang the picture up, <u>chiquito</u>.

Trino

Where?

Chela

(Pointing to the space where the por-
traits hang)

There. Where we can see it.

Trino

(Doubtfully)

Should I?

1-10

Dona Candita

Oh, but yes, Nina! I pray for it night and day!

Pilar

We're going. I've had enough.

Dona Candita

Truly?

Pilar

Immediately.

Dona Candita

But your father --?

Pilar

He'll agree.

Dona Candita

Oh, I don't think he will.

Pilar

He'll have to.

Dona Candita

He thinks he must stay for a while longer in New York.

Pilar

What do I care what he thinks!

Dona Candita

He's your father.

Pilar

"He's my father." Shall I tell you what he is? A failure -
that's what he is! I'll tell him so!

Dona Candita

(Shocked)

Pilar! You wouldn't!

Pilar

I would! I'm going to.

Tonight I'll tell him.

Dona Candita

Please, don't, Pilar!

He'll be angry.

Pilar

What do I care for his anger? Is he God? I'm sick of the
whole mess. It's time something was done! Father won't make
decisions. I will.

Dona Candita

(Distressed)

Please, Pilar, baby. You're tired. Don't do anything to upset
him. He'd never forgive you. You know the way he is.

1-12

## Pilar (Cont'd)

(Gathering her courage)

Oh, don't you see what's in front of your eyes? Everything's going to pieces here.

Don Severo

Be silent!

## Pilar

Why do we have to be silent about it? Save your lies for the world. Let's have the truth here at home!

Don Severo

I don't care to hear this.

## Pilar

Please, please listen to me. This afternoon I was at the del Hoyos. You should see what's happened to them! The great del Hoyos are trying to be New Yorkers. Their drawing room is full of drunken bums, cheap cafe society, maudlin, jittery imbeciles, just like the rest of New York! The girls drink like fish, Carmela takes heroin. Grace is gone out of them completely, their manners are the manners of pigs, they stink with filth and decay. My God, is that what we're going to turn into? No, no! I won't have it! Look at us. Poor mampita - her head buried in the Church - like an ostrich. Look at Trino, thinks he's an artist. Good God, who'd spit on an artist? Grandfather would roll in his grave. And Chela sucking around Broadway with her tongue out after lecherous Jews who might give her a job.

## Chela

(Interrupting defiantly)

I've got a job. I've got it!

## Pilar

Yes? In what? A lousy tenth-rate Hot-chs show. And Fernando -- hanging around with strikers - taxi-driving riff-raff, and little painted girls from the factories. What does he care about them, anyway? Just a girl to sleep with - and you know it! A God-damned paternalistic condescending Communist the party wouldn't have for a million dollars! Our family -- mother's family at least - used to amount to something. It can again. But not here. We're going back - where we came from - where our roots are, where there's something to live for, something to fulfill!

Don Severo

(Troubled)

We're staying here. We can't go back. You don't understand.

## Pilar

Oh, I understand you very well, Father. You jumped at the chance to run away from Yucatan in the Revolution -- not to save your life, or the lives of mama and Fernando and me -- Oh no! You were jealous of the Tueros, mama's family, their money and power. You wanted to show them up. You'd get out of the country, you'd flee to New York, study, become a great

1-13

Pilar (Cont'd)

surgeon, illustrious, world-famous! You'd go back and out
them dead -- or if you spoke at all, you'd deign to bow
to them only, with rude arrogance.

Don Severo

Pilar, I forbid you!

Pilar

(Unheeding, full of smoldering violence,
and finally a choked anger)

I was there, don't forget. I was a child - but I remember --
everything! I see every day, every night of that flight from
Pueblo to pueblo in the bolan - Fernando, mother and me --
tossed and pitched till we were black and blue, and dying for
food. I see you, papa, very clearly -- your frightened face -
riding beside us -- like something desperate and hunted. And
at night -- in the hot dark jungle peace - screwing whatever
you could find! Passing on your sickness and incompetence to
fill the world, to overwhelm the world and destroy it! For
you are sick, and you are incompetent! Oh, I know, mi papacito!
I've been to the hospital, I've talked with Dr. Easton, and I
know. You'll never be a great surgeon. You won't even be
passable. You're a failure, a failure! We're all -- all --
failures! It's time we faced it!

(There is a horrible silence. After a moment,
PILAR recovers enough to speak)

I'm sorry. It was rotten of me.

Don Severo

(After a moment - huskily)

You've said everything.

Pilar

(Brokenly)

Father!

Don Severo

We'll go back. Maybe it's best. For all of us.

Pilar

Just for a year, Father! Let's try it, shall we? It'll be
better. I know it will!

Don Severo

I hope so. We'll go Tuesday - if we can get ready. There's
a boat. The Orizaba.

Pilar

(Going to him, putting her arm on his
shoulder)

Forgive me.

## SCENE TWO

The *Corredor* of Techoh, the family *hacienda* near Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, seen from the house. It is a comfortable place, with chairs, a new radio, a hammock, flowers, etc. Beyond the pillars and arches at the back, a windmill towers up out of sight covered with flowering vines. Farther still are the long green orderly rows of hemp receding to the horizon under the tropic sky. It is a far cry from wintry New York - and it is an afternoon in February.

A little band of Indians, with violins and brasses, is concluding the last phrase of some dance music. They conclude as soon as the curtain is well up, and begin to saw and toot, tuning up again.

CUCO SALDIVAR, immaculate in white -- attractive, about thirty-one - holds up a hand for silence. He is usually good-humored, but now he has some worries.

His sister, SENORITA JOSEFA SALDIVAR, rather hefty and absurd, but nasty - with the malice of the bored - lies in a magnificent Yucatecan hammock of yellow, white lace, and ropes of peacock blue, which is slung from one column to the wall of the house.

Cuco
All right, now that's it. Mind you play it well. I wish somebody would dance, too. Beto, you know how to dance the *Jarana*, don't you?

Beto
(A dark quietly-arresting young Indian boy, about nineteen)
Yes.

2-2

Cuco

That's fine. You and Chata, then. Chata?

Chata

(A young Mayan girl, giggling)
Senor Saldivar! Me?

Cuco

Will you do it?

(CHATA nods bashfully, overcome)

All right, Beto -- there's your partner. Do you want to
rehearse?

Beto

I won't dance.

Cuco

What!

Beto

No.

Cuco

Why not?

(BETO is silent)

You're glad to see the Crespos, aren't you?

(No answer)

Aren't you?

Beto

No. They are nothing to me.

Josefa

(Sitting up)

There! What did I tell you, Cuco?

Cuco

(Severely)

Senor Crespo is your patron, your master. The family owns
you -- all of you! In future, you'll take orders from them.

But until they arrive, I'm still giving the orders, do you
understand? So you'd better welcome them, -- as I tell you --
or you'll have to suffer the consequences! Is that clear?

Indians

Yes, Senor Saldivar. Oh, we will bid them welcome, never fear!

Trust us, Senor. Whatever you say, Senor.

Cuco

You refuse to dance, Beto?

Beto

Yes, Senor.

2-3

Josefa

(Jumping up, angrily)

See here, <u>mentecato</u>! Don't you dare be insolent to my brother!
You need a good beating to teach you some manners!

Cuco

Josefa, shut up! It's lucky you don't belong to me, Beto.

Beto

Yes.

Cuco

I'm going to report you to el Senor Crespo, you know that,
don't you?

Beto

As you like.

Cuco

(Furiously)

Get out of here, all of you!

An Indian

Are we not to play, Senor?

Cuco

Yes, of course you're to play! When you see them coming.

Keep a sharp look-out, too. They'll be here any minute now.

Indians

Si, Senor. We understand. Valdez, go and stand by the gate
to warn us.

(The Indians go out)

Cuco

Damned stupid insulting bastard!

Josefa

If you weren't such a softie, Cuco, you'd have taken a whip
to him.

(With a knowing look)

Bastard is right, you know that, don't you? Who do you think
he looks like, eh, Cuco?

Cuco

What the hell do I care who he looks like?

Josefa

Let's see - Don Severo was a man in the old days, they tell me!

1917, 1937 -- Oh, yes, I see it all! Madre de Dios! That Beto!

The Indians are getting so impudent it makes my blood boil!

(She is suddenly overcome with ridiculous
fury)

Where is that boy? I'll scratch his eyes out!

2-4

Cuco

(Stopping her)

Josefa!

Josefa

(Struggling)

I will! Let me go! I'll teach him to be rude to ladies.
I'll teach him!

(CUCO pushes her down into a chair roughly)

Josefa

(In silly consternation)

You pushed me! My own brother!

Cuco

Josefa -- you're a moss.

Josefa

It's a man's world. You're all brutes.

(Cunningly and accusingly)

I know what's got into you, though. You smell a woman coming.

It's Pilar. I know.

Cuco

Listen, you idiot -- I saw Pilar last when she was five years
old, and scrawny as an ant-eater. She's probably buck-toothed,
and ugly as you are, and I wouldn't spit on her for seaweed.

Josefa

(Exasperatingly)

All the same, you've gone to a lot of trouble.

Cuco

Look, Josefa -- we're friends of the Crespo family, and always
have been. The least we can do is try to welcome them home.

Josefa

You've run their *hacienda* for them for years -- as if it were
your own. Isn't that enough? No, it seems not! This past
week you've practically done the house over for them. I never
saw such scrubbing and digging and white-washing! Neglecting
your business too -- and for what?

Cuco

(Absorbed)

Josefa -- do you see that crack in the plaster? A vine had
grown up there and was tearing the house down -- just the way
they do at the ruins of Uxmal. I had it cut down only last
week -- and look at it! Grown a foot already!

Josefa

Don't change the subject. I know what's on your mind. I
always know what's on a man's mind. One thing. Just one.
Well, thank God, the Crespos are a good family, anyway. There's

2-5

Josefa (Cont'd.)

Tuero blood in it. But I predict New York hasn't done them
any good. I expect the worst -- and don't say I didn't warn
you.

(The Indians hurry back in)

Indians

They're coming! They've just driven through the *portal grande*!

(There are sounds of an automobile stopping,
and the slamming of doors)

Cuco

Take your places. Now. Ready? Play.

(THEY start to play an old melody. It is
charming, but the violins whine, and the
trumpet toots crazily. CUCO and JOSEFA
hurry off.)

(After a moment, PILAR comes in. She is radiant,
but almost overcome with nostalgia. She stands
for a moment taking in the familiar place. Then
she goes to one of the columns, leans against it.
She puts up both arms around it, kisses it, stands
there, her cheekpressed close.)

(She does not see for a moment, some Indians hurry
through with baggage. She does not heed, either,
when CHELA comes in swiftly, before all the Indians
have disappeared into the house. The music stops.)

Chela

Lucio! Don't take that bag in. Put it down - right there.
And the little one Abram has.

Lucio

Sí, senorita.

(He does as directed. The other Indians vanish
with the other baggage)

Chela

Better still - put them back in the car.

(PILAR becomes conscious of what is going
on, turns to look)

Lucio

Back?

Chela

Yes, yes - do as I tell you. And tell the man to wait.

2-6

Lucio

Si, senorita.

(He hurries out with them. CHELA nods to the players, then sees Pilar)

Pilar

(Coming down)
Chela, what is it?

Chela

It's my business.

Pilar

But what are you doing?

Chela

Don't mind me. You're home. Enjoy it!

(The other CRESPOS, the SALDIVARS, and MARUCA come in, calling to the players as they do so)

Crespos and Saldivars

Gracias, gracias, all! Que bonito! You play very well.

That will do for the present. Later, you can play some more.

Etc.

Don Severo

(When they are in)

Cuco, I wouldn't have known you. You must have been about nine when I saw you last.

Cuco

Eleven, Senor.

Don Severo

A little boy, I needn't tell you how grateful I am for everything you've done.

(DONA CANDITA goes to Pilar, hugs her ecstatically, beaming with childish happiness.)

Cuco

I've served myself, too, Don Severo. An overseer's salary is something to have in these times.

Don Severo

Yes, I suppose so. You and your sister will stay for supper, of course.

Josefa

Con mucho gusto, Don Severo.

2-8

Beto

Dead, Senor.

Don Severo

(Almost inaudible now)

I see.

(He rouses himself to his duty)

You can go now. In future, be careful to obey. This time
I won't punish you.

(TRINO, seeing the implications of the scene,
goes over to Beto, holds out his hand)

Trino

My name is Trino.

(BETO looks, in quiet surprise. After a moment
he takes the proffered hand)

Beto

Gracias.

(PILAR gasps indignantly. JOSEFA looks angrily,
but triumphantly at Cuco. In the shocked silence,
BETO goes out.)

Pilar

You don't have to give your hand to an Indian!

Trino

(With quiet significance)

I think you do. I think so.

Pilar

Don't talk nonsense!

Dona Candita

In Merida, as we came through - there was the Cathedral.

(They ALL look at her rapt expression)

I had to stop and give thanks. And here -- The way I have
dreamed it. Flowers and music ... the cattle at the drink-
ing trough as before . . . the soft air . . . home . . .
my family. . . God is good . . .

(Her eyes cloud with tears. She sits down.)

Pilar

(Going to her)

Mother dear.

Dona Candita

(Ashamed)

Don't mind me. I am happy. Maruca, go and see about --
No --

(She gets up)

I'll come with you.

2-9

Don Severo

Candita can't wait to get back to her kitchen.

Dona Candita

Charcoal is best for cooking. Uhhh!

(She shudders)

The smell of gas -- I can forget it now.

(She and MARUCA start out.)

Chela

Mother, please. Just a-- I have something to say.

(MARUCA disappears)

Fernando

(Half-derisively, but good-naturedly)

Flowers, music, home!

Chela

Be quiet, Fernando. This is hard for me to do, hard for me to speak. I ask you to forgive me beforehand if I hurt anybody.

Dona Candita

Why, child!

Don Severo

What is it, Chela?

Chela

(Troubled, but resolved)

You know I had a job when we left New York so suddenly. I didn't want to come. I had to agree. There was nothing else for me to do, because somebody has always told me what to do, made up my mind for me. I knew there was nothing here for me, I'd never have a chance to make a life for myself. I was right. I don't like it here and I'm not going to stay!

Dona Candita

But Chelita, see, it is beautiful, you will come to love it.

Chela

No. I won't. I hate it already. Something horrible hangs in the air! I'm afraid!

Don Severo

Make her lie down and rest. She's upset. Please excuse her, Cuco. You know how it is.

Dona Candita

You're tired, Chelita. The trip. Oh, that boat! I too can feel it still!

2-11

Chela

You all saw the man on the boat I talked to a great deal. I introduced him. Carlos Rivas.

Pilar

My God!

Chela

Save your "My Gods", Pilar! He's as good family as you are, if that's what worries you.

Pilar

The Rivases don't even mention his name. Carlos! That slick, pomaded little pimp!

Chela

He offered me a job in Havana before he got off the boat. He begged me to get off the boat with him. He says I have talent.

Pilar

Talent! My God! Brainless innocence! Don't you know yet there are just two careers open to Latin women? Only two! Marriage or prostitution. Take your pick. I guess you've taken it. It can't be marriage our little perfumed friend offers you. He'll put you in a house -- don't you know that? I hope it's a swell one -- with a good bed, and a high-class trade. **Políticos** or nothing, put your foot down. It's important to be high-class!

Chela

(Furiously)

I'll remember, Pilar! And perhaps someday I'll ask you to visit me in my red plush parlor, and offer you a shot of **tequila** and a reefer.

(Subsiding)

It's not that kind of a job. I have a contract to sing in a cabaret. It's good any time for two weeks.. It's signed.

(She brings it out. PILAR takes it, tears it in two pieces, and throws it on the floor)

(CHELA picks it up.)

A torn contract is still a contract. You wouldn't know that.

Dona Candita

Chela, my little one! I was so happy.

Chela

I'm sorry, **mamacita**!

Dona Candita

Once you had a baby brother. He was ill of pneumonia. He suffered so. You don't remember. At the ninth day they told me he would live. He smiled at me. Yes, he winked at me from his cradle! His dear bright eyes! Picture my joy. That night -- he died. Picture my grief. On the heels of joy, death, dark wings.

2-12

Chela

Mother, trust me!

Don Severo

I can't tell you not to go, Chela. I can't tell you not to
break your mother's heart.

Pilar

I can tell her! She's not going. Cuco, please run and tell
the man to take the bags out of the car again.

Trino

Cuco, don't do it! You have no right to interfere!

Pilar

Neither do you. Oh, this is bad enough -- and outsiders to
see it! Can't you hold your tongue?

Cuco

I'm not an outsider, Pilar. Don't think of me that way.

Pilar

But the talk! The talk! This isn't New York.

Cuco

No one will talk.
(He looks sharply at his sister)
No one.

Pilar

Thank you, Cuco. Give me a cigaret.

Cuco

(Offering them)
You're trembling.
(He lights her cigaret)

Dona Candita

(Not wanting to hear any more)
I'll go now. Supper must be --

Pilar

Wait, mother. Chela - once and for all - do you want to
disgrace us?

Chela

Myself only.

Pilar

That's ridiculous and you know it! We'll be the joke of
Merida! We still have to hold up our heads. Someone has to.

Trino

You'll do that, Pilar! You - you only. For all of us!
That's the way it will end.

2-13

Pilar

(Struck)

No, no, I can't. Is everybody against me? You can't do this
to me!

Trino

We'd all run if we had the courage. I would. Fernando would,
too.

Fernando

Leave me out of it! I'll do my own talking.

Chela

(Gently)

Pilar. I'm sorry for you. It's the first time in my life.
I've always been afraid of you. Try to think as well of me
as you can.

Pilar

Well, go -- if you're going. Why do you stand there?

Chela

I'm not going at your orders, Pilar. I've chosen to go.

Pilar

Get it over with then.

Chela

(Like a child)

Yes. Will anyone see me off? Will anyone wave to me from
the portal?

Trino

Yes, honey.

Chela

(Tears welling up in her eyes)

Thank you.

(She and TRINO go off. After a moment, DON
SEVERO goes gravely too. At this, DONA
CANDITA, who has been afraid he won't, but
who hasn't dared make the move, hurries off
after him. Next FERNANDO goes.)

(PILAR turns to look. CUCO is watching her.
Then she goes quietly, firmly, into the house.
CUCO stares after her, like a man a truck dumb)

Josefa

Whew!

(She goes and throws herself, fat and
ridiculous and acid, into the hammock)

A nest. Veritably a nest! Oh, the smell! I'm ill! Wait
till I tell this in Merida.

2-14

Cuco

She's beautiful...and alone. My God, courage!

Josefa

A woman is supposed to keep her mouth shut, except to say "Yes."

(Sitting up)

Would you look at a girl who smokes in public, swears in public, wears her hair like a harlot, and doesn't know the way decent women are supposed to behave? "Could you?

(No answer from CUCO)

They say such women will do anything.

(In disgust)

What is it about a man - every man -? The minute they see a cheap woman -- itch, itch, itch! - all over the place!

Cuco

Be quiet, Josefa.

Josefa

I won't be quiet! Would you marry a girl whose brother shakes hands with Indians, and whose sister is a cabaret singer, or worse?

Cuco

Certainly. I intend to.

Josefa

You wouldn't dare.

(She throws herself back in the hammock)

Cuco

Wait and see.

(He goes over, in a burst of high spirits)

Wait -- wait and see, Josefa!

(He gives the hammock a terrific push)

Josefa

(Swinging wildly, in consternation)

Cuco! You're murdering me!

CURTAIN

3-2

Dona Candita

But I do -- all the time, Pilar. What is it?

Pilar

I feel very low and hateful.

(She goes to her Mother for comfort, kneels down, her head in Dona Candita's lap)

Dona Candita

You!

Pilar

Yes. I've driven Chela away.

Dona Candita

But no, that is nonsense. She wanted to go.

Pilar

I didn't even say "Good-bye" to her.

Dona Candita

Never mind.

Pilar

It was despicable of me, and I feel sick about it. I only mean to do right for us all. And look at the way it makes me act. There must be something wrong with me.

Dona Candita

Nothing is wrong, Pilar. You are a Tuero - truly. You must do what has to be done.

Pilar

Yes, I forced us all to come back here. If I hadn't, we wouldn't have lost Chela like this. It's like a warning. I feel it.

Dona Candita

Now see, Pilar, that is all you know. It was the will of Heaven that sent us back. The Blessed Virgin was at work to do good to us. I know exactly how it happened.

(She smiles at her secret)

Pilar

(Getting up, still troubled)

Was it a mistake, maybe, just the same?

Dona Candita

Oh no, Pilar. How could it be? God does not make mistakes.

Pilar

(Trying to shake off her dark premonition)

At any rate, you are glad to be here, aren't you, Mama?

Dona Candita

Glad? It is Heaven almost.

3-3

Pilar

(Grasping at every straw)

And Father. He seems already ten years younger.

Dona Candita

Yes, he does! Have you notice'? In a week, you won't know
him. He will be like the dashing young doctor I married.
Such good food we will give him to eat!

Pilar

But Chela's gone.

Dona Candita

She'll come back.

Pilar

Changed, mother, don't you think?

Dona Candita

All is change. Except the true heart. Chela's heart is true
and good.

Pilar

The boys don't like it here either, I feel it.

Dona Candita

It is strange to them now. But Fernando was born here, he will
begin to remember things his baby eyes looked on. And Trino
will come to love it, as we do.

(She goes to Pilar)

Don't worry, Pilar. You

(Chidingly)

are a little child to worry about such grown-up matters.

Pilar

(Looking about)

There they all are. Watching us.

Dona Candita

Yes. Just the same. When we fled - 20 years ago - they
were there - there was no time to pack them. And there they
are still - to welcome us home.

Pilar

Do they believe in us, or are they waiting to see how puny the
blood stream has become after all?

Dona Candita

Their eyes are on us with hope.

Pilar

They look a little grim to me just now.

Dona Candita

They never have before. You used to look at them by the hour.
See, *chiquita*, there is your great uncle, Jose, smiling away

3-4

Dona Candita (cont'd)

with his young bride. Nothing is grim about that!

Pilar

No, Mother.

Dona Candita

And there is you, Pilar, with your curls. You were very pretty.
Everybody adored you. I had a hard time keeping you, they all
wanted you so! You were a Tuero from the first. You were such
a little princess -- with your imperious ways! What is that
little girl in the wicked pictures that talk?

Pilar

Shirley Temple.

Dona Candita

Yes. Oh, you were a little Shirley Temple -- only an aristocrat!
You were like the little Princess Elizabeth of England -- and
you knew your place, too! Such a fuss we made over you! Such
orders you gave, ..... such storms of anger! It makes me laugh
to think of! Once when you were little - not yet three - we let
you take some flowers in to your grandfather, Alonso. He had
company with him, if you please -- the great Don Porfirio Diaz
himself! They sent me a message, written out -- "The little
Pilar you will have all your life. Let us keep her for a week."
And a big seal, with ribbons! What could I do? When you came
home -- it was in a cart with two tiny ponies. And you wore a
little lace dress from Paris. There you are!

(She studies the picture, with pleasure)

Pilar

(Quietly, absorbed, not looking)

Why is this, mama? If you look about you closely -- no matter
who you are -- what the circumstances of your life are -- it
makes you afraid. Only if you look back is the heart truly
joyous. Where must one look, then?

Dona Candita

Joy and pain -- in the past, are all one -- and the color of
delight. It is safe to rest the eyes there. But in the present
-- try to look only at pleasant things. If things are not
pleasant, look to the Church. Time passes then, and the knife-
cut in the bleeding flesh is only a slight scar, and the memory
of life lived.

Pilar

(Restlessly)

It's the way of a child. It's your way, Mama. I don't want
to be a child.

Dona Candita

(With secret guile)

You depend on yourself too much.

3-5

Pilar
Grandfather did. On himself alone.

Dona Candita
But he was a man. You are a woman. The rules are different.

Pilar
Why should they be? Why?

Dona Candita
You trouble your head so!

Pilar
Someone has to!

Dona Candita
(Driving toward her purpose)
Then let the men do it. The men! Pilar.
(And her meaning is out)
You should marry.

Pilar
Oh, mother.

Dona Candita
Yes. It would settle so many things for you.

Pilar
That's all very well -- but who is there to marry?

Dona Candita
Oh, there are men enough!

Pilar
That man in New York, with the pilot's license?

Dona Candita
The aviator man? Flying about in that contraption of the
devil? God forbid!

Pilar
Then who?

Dona Candita
Look about you.

Pilar
Cuco Saldivar?

Dona Candita
Oh, it is a match! I can see it!

Pilar
I've barely met the man.

3-6

Dona Candita

All the same, you've seen him. And he likes you. He has his
own business, too - the cigar factory - money. And you know
who the family is. It's enough.

Pilar

(Thoughtfully)

I could give myself to a man, I think. But I shouldn't care
to marry one for life.

Dona Candita

Holy Mother of God - don't think such thoughts!

(She snatches her little bottle of holy water,
and sprinkles some about the room)

Pilar

I'm sorry. You're shocked.

Dona Candita

In my own bedroom, to hear such sentiments!

Pilar

(Amused and charmed by her mother)

Mother - you're like a little bird!

(She hugs her tenderly)

How did you get to be so good?

Dona Candita

Oh, it is not so. I am a very wicked creature.

(PILAR laughs)

Pilar

You're a sweet. In this room - I am at home. Why is that?

Is it you - or the room?

Dona Candita

You were born here.

Pilar

You were a bride here. Look - here you are dressed for your
wedding - with that angel face.

Dona Candita

(Looking - carried back)

Severo was so handsome. And is still. The girls were all
after him, I can tell you!

(And then she sees what forbidden topics she
has strayed into. Her eyes go down quickly)

Pilar

Yes, I know.

(She looks at her mother, who turns away)

I - I didn't mean to remind you.

Dona Candita

(Distressed and loyal)

Please, Pilar! Severo has always been a good husband to me.

3-7

Pilar

Of course, mother.

(Looking now at the picture of herself in
the pony cart... to drop the painful subject)

Now would you believe it! Is *that* what I looked like in the
pony cart?

Dona Candita

Exactly.

Pilar

I remember the ponies. One of them used to follow me for
sugar. This one, I think. That's a cute little face -- the
Pilar that was -- for heaven's sake. And look at me now!

Dona Candita

(Gravely)

I am looking at you, baby. I see our future in your face.
You are strong -- and your eyes have a light in them.

(Light again)

Your own mother admires you -- which in this day and age they
tell me is a miracle.

Pilar

(Touched and happy)

Mother. You make me feel so good, so far from evil! I could
conquer the world. I am happier than I've ever been - since
I was a child. I won't fail you, *mamacita*!

(FERNANDO bursts into the door, excited and
jittery with pleasure about something)

Fernando

Mother!

Dona Candita

Yes, Fernando.

Fernando

Do you remember your old friend, Amira Lujan?

Dona Candita

Amira? Is she here!

Fernando

(Stopping her)

No, mother, listen. She's sent her daughter -- with a message.
She and *thenana* have just driven out.

Dona Candita

Amira's daughter - imagine! I'll come at once.

Fernando

Let her come here -- the daughter.

3-8

Dona Candita
But my room -- the mess! I've not unpacked.

Fernando
Please, mamsie!

Dona Candita
Why is this? Why?

Fernando
They're all there talking in the <u>corredor</u>. The Saldivars too.
She's shy with them. Let me bring her here, <u>mama</u>, please!

Dona Candita
Very well, then. Only --

Fernando
You blessed little thing!
(He kisses his mother ecstatically, and then
in an excess of good spirits hugs Pilar)
I'll get her!
(He hurries out)

Pilar
(Gaily)
It's all working out! Mother, you were so right. Fernando's
himself again.
(She is hurrying out)

Dona Candita
Where are you going?

Pilar
There's something I must do. I've been spiteful and mean to
Trino. I'll make it up with him. We're the same blood. He'll
love me again, won't he, <u>mama</u>? I'll make him. I'm tired of
discord. I'll humble myself if I have to. Then we'll all be
together again!
(She hurries out happily)

(DONA CANDITA straightens a few things quickly.
FERNANDO brings in Ninon, a pretty girl, but
common, with extreme clothes and a petulant
mouth -- like a bitter little doll)

Fernando
Mother, this is Ninon.

Dona Candita
Ninon.
(She opens her arms. NINON goes to her.
DONA CANDITA embraces her tenderly)

My dear Amira's child. And how is your dear mother, Ninon?

3-9

Ninon

Oh, mother's all right. She's always all right. You couldn't
kill mother. She's a horse.

Dona Candita

(Puzzled)

Kill? A horse?

Fernando

She means her mother's fine, she's well, mother.

Dona Candita

Oh.

Fernando

Aren't you glad?

Dona Candita

Yes.

Ninon

She sent you a message, Mrs. Crespo. "Tell Dona Candita,"
she said -- "Tell Dona Candita I wish her well -- and joy of
her homecoming. If she wants to see me -- I can be found."

Dona Candita

(Softly)

Is that all?

Ninon

Yes.

Dona Candita

And she didn't come to see me herself.

Ninon

Mother's got her reasons.

Dona Candita

But we -- we were friends from childhood. Inseparable. I
don't understand.

Ninon

(Bursting out)

You'll understand only too well after you've been here twenty-four hours! Things aren't the same as --

(Then, seeing Dona Candita, her old face,
her gray hair)

You - you're older than I thought you'd be.

Dona Candita

The years leave their traces.

Ninon

That used to be the rule, all right.

3-10

Dona Candita

Your mother is my age exactly.

Ninon

Oh, but you'd never believe it! You wouldn't know mother, if
she stood right here in front of you.

(Bursting out spitefully)

She runs me a race, I can tell you! Practically swipes the
boys from under my nose. Her hair blackened and red on her
nails -- even her toes - !

Dona Candita

Red on her toes?

Ninon

And no stockings just to show them off. You know - like the
girls in the Technicolor pictures.

Dona Candita

The girls here in Merida like that? I thought only in New York..
the big cities of the world.

Ninon

Only mother is like that, Mrs. Crespo. My God, even I don't
paint my toe-nails! I'm not that low.

(Bitterly)

The mighty Lujans have gone to the dogs - you may as well know
now as later, Mrs. Crespo. Oh, when we had money, they for-
gave us being a little unconventional! But it's quite different
now. The old dames don't visit us any more -- which I can tell
you is a relief to me. The vicious old gossip-mongers! We're
beyond the tracks -- as they say in the States - and nobody --
nobody who is anybody -- would be caught dead speaking to us.
Now -- there it is!

Dona Candita

I see. Your poor mother. And no friend to comfort her. Tell
her I'll come to see her - tomorrow.

Ninon

They all say that - but they never come.

Dona Candita

(Gently)

Tomorrow at ten. Tell her.

Ninon

(After a moment - touched)

I'll tell her, Dona Candita. Thank you.

(She goes out)

Fernando

Mother, can I ask Ninon and the Nana to stay for supper?

Dona Candita

If you like, Fernando.

3-11

Fernando

Mother! Isn't she the ---! Isn't she the ---! Oh, what the hell!
(He hurries after her)

(DONA CANDITA stands there, bent and sorrowful. Then she goes quietly, and kneels before the Virgin. For a moment, a moment only, it seems absurd and laughable. But in a moment, she begins to speak)

Dona Candita

Mother of God. I am an old woman and my life is behind me. I ask nothing for myself anymore. God has showered infinite gifts upon me. But the others -- the weary and struggling ones alive in the world, and crying out! Be gracious to them before it's too late. That little child, with her life hardly begun. The little Ninon. Hurt and bitter already, full of hate and anguish much too hard to bear. Help her to find happiness. She is too young to suffer . . . too young.

CURTAIN

4-2

Beto

Your grandfather belonged here.

Trino

My grandfather was a strong man.

Beto

There is strong blood in your veins.

Trino

No, Beto, not in mine. Listen, Beto, my grandfather was a tyrant, an oppressor. It's no wonder he was at home here. Slaves to command - to torture if it pleased him - forcing them to work like beasts to fill his own money-bags. Women slaves to enjoy at night. The rich gluttonous old Spanish bastard! It's no wonder he was just like that with that old despot, Don Porfirio Diaz. They were birds of a feather. You should hate them -- hate us all -- hate me.

Beto

We don't hate. We Mayans have never hated.

Trino

It would be better if you had. Look at these ruins - at the ruins of Chichen Itza, Uxmal -- a dozen cities, their walls down, their story in dust. The Toltecs crushed and buried your temples under their own. The Spaniards came, and put yokes around your necks, hating your freedom and your beauty. A little hate would have saved you. The *machete* was in your belt - and you wouldn't use it!

Beto

Hate kills the people it inhabits.

Trino

And the people it's directed against, Beto?

Beto

No, we don't die. Trino. A horse, covered with iron to protect him, his feet sharp shod, his nostrils snorting, goes into battle. Against what? Nothing. No enemy. What happens? He sinks in the spongy grass, the marsh. The *cenote* filled with reeds and rushes swallows him. Nothing has happened. All is as it was before.

Trino

Do you like your lot, then?

Beto

We bear it. We are grass.

Trino

Trampled underfoot, bruised and bleeding - you bear it!

Beto

Yes.

4-3

Trino

And you -- you personally, Beto -- do you like your lot?

Beto

Who am I -- personally?

Trino

Flesh and bone! Hope in you -- or not in you!

Beto

I don't know such words.

I work. That's all I know.

Trino

You should hope and struggle and fail -- and rise up and fight
and conquer!

Beto

What should I conquer?

Trino

The earth.

Beto

(With a mounting asperity.)

Like your ancestors. And what happens after they conquer? They
decay. Look at those haughty ones and wonder. Look at yourself.
Who are you to instruct me?

Trino

Don't be offended, Beto.

If you are not my friend, I have no

(BETO looks at him quietly a moment, then
turnsaway)

Beto

(Softly)

We have no right to be friends.

Trino

Why not?

Beto

I feel it.

Trino

I am white and you are Indian. And this is Mexico. Is that it?

Beto

Perhaps.

Trino

But the land is yours - soon, Beto. The government is giving
it back to you. They have said so.

(Gently)

I ask for your friendship. You are my superior.

4-4

Beto

You think of high and low. You are not to be trusted.

Trino

Why do you say it?

Beto

You will betray me. And not know how you have done it.

Trino

No, I won't, Beto.

Beto

To you some must be above, some below. It's in your blood.

Trino

(Narrowly - like an accusing challenge.)

We are not so different. The blood, I mean. You have white
blood, Beto.

Beto

(Deliberately - also knowing the secret)

You should know that.

Trino

Yes. I know.

Beto

(In deep controlled protest)

It doesn't make me white. I am Kayan! An Indian only!

Trino

Yes, you are Indian, - but -

(BETO goes away, dark, troubled deeply)

Beto

(After a moment - quiet again, measured.)

But I have half your sickness, Trino. Half. So I can understand you enough to be your friend. I will be your friend, Trino. I can't help it.

(PILAR comes in. She stops, seeing that TRINO is not alone.)

Pilar

Oh.

Trino

What is it?

5-2

Trino

Ron de cana. Cane rum. Their own.

Fernando

(Surly, looking for trouble)

My God, cane rum - that sticky mess! Wine, I say! <u>Vine por los Indios!</u> I'll get it. I'm a generous men - I'll make them happy!

Trino

Stop it, Fernando! You can't give them wine, you can't give them anything.

Fernando

(Short and pugnacious)

And why can't I?

Trino

Because they have it already -- the thing you ought to crawl on your knees to get!

Fernando

For God's sake - riddles!

(He breaks away)

Trino

(Stopping him by force)

Yes, riddles you used to understand. It was all talk. Shooting off your mouth!

Fernando

What the hell's the matter with you?

Trino

You hear me!

Fernando

What's happening to you?

Trino

I might ask what's happening to you? Good God, I used to respect you! Jesus, you and your paternalism! Your generous nature! You'll give them wine! The Good God Bountiful! The good god-damned fool!

Fernando

(Turning on him with fury)

Take it back, take it back!

Trino

You're drunk.

Beto

(Quickly, interfering)

Fernando! Trino! Play, Valdez! Play! <u>Viajera!</u> <u>Poemas de mi Patria!</u> Anything!

5-3

(The Indians begin to play loudly. The brothers subside)

(PILAR and CUCO hurry in gaily, followed by the breathless JOSEFA)

Pilar

Fernando!

Fernando

(Sulkily)

Well?

Pilar

The de la Sornas are giving a party at their hacienda. They have an orchestra from Cuba, bals de carnets, punch and champagne, everything!

Fernando

Let them have it.

Pilar

(Gaily)

I wouldn't stop them! I can hear the music -- the gaiety! Aren't you even interested?

Fernando

(Snapping his fingers)

Not that much.

Pilar

Oh, but you will be, when you hear! We're all invited. Josefa says so. Isn't it so, Josefa?

Josefa

They gave me the message. "Invite all the Crespos," they said. They're full of curiosity to see you.

Fernando

Let them die of it.

Josefa

What?

Fernando

Let them die of it. I'm not going.

Pilar

But Fernando. I can't go without you, without someone.

Fernando

What's the matter with Cuco?

Pilar

I have to have a chaperon. A brother, at least.

5-4

Fernando

Why?

Pilar

(with good-natured raillery)

It's the custom, silly. He thinks he's in the States.

Fernando

I know damn well I'm not in the States.

Pilar

(At his angry manner)

What is it, Fernando?

Fernando

(And now it's out)

Is Ninon invited? Is she? Is her mother, Amira Lujan, invited?

Pilar

I don't know, I'm sure, I --

Josefa

No, they're not, I can tell you!

Fernando

No, of course not. And why is that? Tell me why? The Lujans aren't good enough, is that it?

Josefa

Nobody invites the Lujans anymore. Those awful people! It isn't done. Good families wouldn't think of having them in their house.

Fernando

To hell with them, then! And you, too!

Cuco

Hey, now!

(Then genially and kiddingly)

Oh, so there is the wind and where it blows! Ninon. I noticed you casting your eyes at the little Ninon all during supper. But of course you couldn't have known about her -- or you'd have restrained your animal instincts.

Fernando

I know everything about her -- everything.

Cuco

That I seriously doubt. My innuendos at supper ought to have informed you.

Fernando

You didn't have to be rude to her, my fine Senor! Nor you either, Senorita Saldivar! You humiliated her with your re-

5-5

Fernando (cont'd)

marks -- you drove her home in tears by your rudeness. Be
rude in your own house -- not in ours!

Josefa

(With quick anger)

I'll be rude wherever I damn well please!

Fernando

Someday you'll get slapped.

Josefa

(Unable to believe her ears)

Slapped? Me - slapped!

Cuco

(Angrily)

See here - you young - !

Pilar

(Quickly)

No, no, Cuco! Let him alone.

Josefa

What kind of a family - !

Pilar

He doesn't know what he's saying, he's - he's been drinking.

Fernando

I know well enough.

Pilar

(Embarrassed and ashamed)

Really, he doesn't - he'll apologize tomorrow -- he'll be
ashamed of himself - he isn't like this, he --

Fernando

Lay on the plaster, whiten the sepulcher! Paint your pretty
picture, and fall in a swoon of admiration!

(With cold emphasis)

I know what I'm saying, my fine sister. I'm going to marry
Ninon.

Pilar

(Appalled)

You couldn't.

Fernando

In spite of you!

Pilar

You can't -- Father will prevent it.

Fernando

Instructed by you, his decision made for him! It'll do you
no good. If she'll have me, I'll marry her.

5-7

(The mood is broken. PILAR seizes the moment to pull it back to normal)

Pilar

I'm sorry, Josefa. If he doesn't want to go - it doesn't matter, anyway.

(With hardly any hope)

Trino won't go, I know. Will you, Trino?

Trino

No.

Pilar

Cuco! I have it! Couldn't we just go without a chaperon?

Cuco

Would you dare? I would!

Pilar

Oh, yes, Cuco. It can't be a crime exactly. Let's do it!

Josefa

(This is too much)

For heaven's sake, Cuco! Pilar, such a thing to say!

Pilar

Is it so bad?

Josefa

(Quite overcome with amazed indignation)

Cuco, how could you let her even consider it? It's indecent.

Have you lost your mind completely? They'd never stop chatter-
ing. Such vile things they'd say!

Pilar

What could they say?

Josefa

They'd say you were one of those loose women from New York, that Cuco was running after you just to get what he wanted, and without any idea of marrying you - and --

Cuco

Josefa, for God's sake!

Josefa

(Not stopping)

and they'd remember Uncle Bernardino, the way he carried
on with just anybody who was female and - oh, the way they
talk! It's disgraceful!

Pilar

Oh, Josefa -- all of you! It doesn't matter at all. I thought
it would be such fun - our first day at home -- seeing the people -
a typical Yucatecan party - it would be new. I remember hardly
anything. I used to creep along the <u>corredor</u> when I was little

5-8

Pilar (Cont'd)

-- and try to hear what was going on, but I couldn't hear a
thing but the noise, mostly the thump of the drum - and then
someone always spotted me and shooed me off to bed again.

(Sitting down, run down by her efforts to shut
JOSELFA'S mouth)

We'll stay here. It's better anyway. The night's a dream.
The music's lovely.

Trino

You might listen to it, then.

Pilar

(Subsiding)

Oh.

(They all listen a moment, as the music
continues)

Josefa

(After fidgeting in disdain a moment)

The Indians don't know how to play. Such a banging.

Pilar

I'd rather be here. I would, really.

Josefa

I wouldn't. There's nothing to keep me here. Nor you either,
Cuco. I'm going to the de la Sernas so you'll have to take me.

Pilar

Yes, Cuco. Josefa's bored. Please take her.

Cuco

I'd rather not, thank you very much.

Pilar

It must be dismal for you here.

Cuco

I'll make out.

Josefa

He won't go. I see it all. And I know why he won't. You
don't have to be a mind reader, either. Men are awful.

Cuco

Shut up, Josefa!

Josefa

Such a lovely party it was going to be, too. The band is to
play in the living room -- refreshments in the new jacal they've
built for a play room. Just like an Indian jacal, only not
shabby, like an Indian one. A concrete floor painted vermilion.
And gold chairs! Such a gold! And here we are -- not even a
chair to sit on -- listening to Indians trying to entertain us.
What a life it is!

5-9

(The Indians have been getting up and
leaving, the song gradually being dropped
by one after the other)

Pilar

What are they doing?

Trino

What would you do in their shoes?

Josefa

(With a silly complaining wail)

They're leaving! Just as we get settled. We weren't doing a thing, not a thing. Oh, the Indians -- always insulting you without opening their mouths! It's disgusting!

Trino

Can you blame them?

Josefa

Certainly, I can blame them! Who do they think they are, these days?

Trino

Good God, these are men - with feelings - not inanimate objects, not so many picturesque Indians in a Rivera painting! They work like dogs, and live on a starvation diet of beans - and not enough of them - to put cake in your mouth and silk on your backs and gold chairs to sit on!

(The Indians are pausing, listening)

They sit there on the hemp mill - The very symbol of their oppression and slavery - and make a song. And you can't even listen! Go to your stupid party, with your bands from Cuba, and goggle champagne - you'll live to regret it! There are people, and I'm one of them - who'll never rest till you're all down, down in the dirt where you belong! Get out, get out - all of you - and leave a little privacy to your betters!

Fernando

(Dangerously, approaching him)

And what do you think you are now, my brother? Are the Indians yours? Do the down-trodden belong to you now that your brother has deserted? You were here. Have you a better right to be here than we have?

Trino

(Sickened by his defection)

Fernando!

Fernando

Have you?

Trino

(His voice low)

I was invited. Get out.

5-10

Pilar

(Distressed and uncertain)

Perhaps we'd better. Josefa. Cuco. I'm sorry this happened.
It's my fault.

Cuco

He can't talk like that to us!

Josefa

He most assuredly can not! It isn't done. See here -- little
Trino -- we're your guests.

Trino

You're my enemy.

Fernando

(Facing him dangerously)

I am your enemy, my brother.

Trino

(Slowly)

I've found that out, Fernando.

(With deep hurt and growing anger)

You used to talk about the servitude of the millions, the blind
crawling in darkness who needed help, and I listened and learned.
It was talk - it meant nothing to you - I see that now --
But I listened. I used to pray to God to make me like you - in
your image, your clear belief, your passion! Your words rang in
my ears - "Give me a place," you said - "where the issues are
clear. Then if you die, you'll know why your blood has been
shed." Once you said that. Where have you gone, what hideous
lechery of the blood has betrayed you? Here, the issues are
clear -- too clear!

Fernando

Yes, clear - crystal clear! - in this country of darkness!

This is a land of masters - don't you see it? -- of right and
wrong, the washed and the filthy, the mighty and the diseased!

Nothing between! And there are rules for everything. You've
just listened to a few of them. Obey them and live. Violate
them and die! Can't you see it yet! Is the fog and the dream
still in your eyes to blind you? You were born one of the
masters. So was I. And I keep what I've got, and get all I
can the way everyone does in this benighted hell-hole! I'll
show you who gives the orders -- and who obeys!

(To one of the Indians, in a fury of drunken
passion)

Play, Chucho, play! Do you hear me?

Chucho

Senor?

Fernando

A song! Make it roar in our ears like doom -- the kind you

5-11

Fernando (Cont'd)

sing when you think no one can hear - a song to chill the blood
- that blinding day that's to come - when you strike off the
chains, and are free! Sing it!

Trino

Fernando!

Fernando

I command you, you greasy bastard! Sing!

Chucho

As you say, Senor Fernando.

(The Indian strums his guitar softly. He is
lifting his voice, dim and troubled, when one
of the Indians jerks out his machete like
lightning, leaps upon the platform)

Trino

Chucho!

Voices

What's he doing! Stop him!

(The GIRLS cry out)

(The machete crashes down, one swift brutal
stroke, and the guitarist lies in a huddled
heap of death)

Voices

I couldn't stop him!
Why did he do it?
Holy Mother!

Josefa

Cuco!

(She clings to him)

Beto

(Stops over the body, straightens up)
He's dead.

Trino

(To Fernando, sickened)
You did it - you!

(He turns away, bent over)

Pilar

(Her heart pounding with horror)
A minute ago he - !

Beto

No matter who fights, what brother against what brother --

## SCENE 6

The <u>Corredor</u> again, seven months
later. October. 6 o'clock in the
morning. A little painted Yucatecan
trunk stands by one of the pillars.

Present are DONA CANDITA, DON SEVERO,
PILAR, CUCO, JOSEFA, A PRIEST, A
SACRISTAN, INDIAN WOMEN beating choco-
late, INDIAN MEN of the <u>hacienda</u>, and
NINON and FERNANDO who are kneeling
before the priest.

Great masses of tuberoses are everywhere. The marriage ceremony is ending.

Priest

... I pronounce you man and wife. Whom God hath joined
together, let no man put asunder.

(The BRIDE and GROOM rise. A stir as the
spectators crowd around)

(DONA CANDITA embraces FERNANDO, and kisses
NINON)

Dona Candita

My child. I prayed for your happiness long ago. My prayer
was answered. Be happy.

Ninon

Thank you, Mother Candita.

Dona Candita

I would have liked your marriage to be in the Cathedral.
But Pilar said "no". I can't think why.

Ninon

It doesn't matter. It's beautiful here -- it's ....
(She holds her close)

Don Severo

My son.

(He gives him an <u>abrazo</u>.)

Fernando

Father.

Don Severo

The first son of my house.
(To Ninon)

My child.

6-2

Cuco

(Cordially, but a little embarrassed)

Congratulations.

Josefa

Well, you are a fine-looking couple, I'll say that, at least!

I have to wish you well.

(Everyone laughs)

Pilar

(Coming over to Fernando)

Fernando.

(She embraces him -- turns to Ninon)

Ninon - if I've spoken ill of you, forgive me now.

Ninon

Yes, Pilar.

Pilar

(Gently)

Make him happy.

Ninon

Yes.

Pilar

I know you will. And that will be the joy you're looking for, won't it?

Ninon

Yes, Pilar.

Pilar

(With sincere wonder)

You're not afraid to go into the *chicle* jungles with him?

Ninon

What is there to be afraid of?

Pilar

The loneliness -- no friends.

Ninon

I love Fernando.

Pilar

(Troubled)

The crawling jungles, the horrible stillness at night, the pests of the air -- a miserable hut to live in - the heat -- are you so brave?

Ninon

I have my husband.

6-3

Pilar

(Tenderly)

And he has you. He's lucky, after all.

Ninon

Thank you, Pilar.

(PILAR embraces her)

The Priest

The sun is rising, my children. His benediction will be
added to our own. The day begins.

Josefa

(Complaining)

Six in the morning -- what an hour for a wedding!

Dona Candita

(Serenely)

It's the classic hour for a Yucatecan wedding, Josefa.

Josefa

I suppose it's all right -- but it's a nuisance, all the same.
I'm perishing.

(She yawns fearfully)

Don Candita

And hungry, no doubt. There's breakfast in the dining room.

(As the Indian women approach with mugs of
freshly-beaten individual chocolate)

And see -- the chocolate is ready. Smell the cinnamon! Bring
it with you. Oh, such food -- Maruca has been cooking for days!
Father. Come in. All of you.

(They all go out, except JOSEFA, who calls
CUCO as he is about to leave)

Josefa

I never thought I'd live to see the day!

Cuco

(Amused at her woeful appearance)

Josefa, you look groggy! Such a face!

Josefa

Six in the morning! How could you ask me to get up so early?
And for such a purpose! They say the wedding was here at the
hacienda -- for reasons.

Cuco

(Bored with her)

What reasons?

Josefa

The family is ashamed of the marriage. They were afraid to
have it in town.

6-4

Cuco

What nonsense!

Josefa

Oh, not nonsense at all!

(Lowering her voice)

They say something else, too. **He had** to marry her.

Cuco

(Not the least bit interested)

Who says so? Come on, I'm starving.

Josefa

Everyone says so.

Cuco

Well, what of it?

Josefa

Oh, nothing now. It's all right now - they're married. Now
there won't be a scandal. That's a comfort.

Cuco

(Smiling)

To you, Josefa?

Josefa

Of course to me! Cuco - such a thing I heard in town! It's
said that as early as two months ago the little Ninon was --
you know what! But Don Severo is a doctor -- don't forget --
he has all those diplomas -- so the little matter was taken
care of, -- and just in time!

Cuco

(Disgusted with her)

Josefa, you know that's a lie. How can you listen to such - !

Josefa

It was told me for true - yes, by a first cousin of the Tueros.
Juanito - the one who put both his eyes out for spite - just
so he wouldn't have to look at his wife anymore. And who could
blame him? If there was ever a more horrible unsightly mass
of . . . .

Cuco

Josefa, I forbid you to gossip about the Crespos!

Josefa

Oh, protect them. It's well known why you hang around them
all the time.

(CUCO turns away with despairing impatience)

Fernando could have waited, it seems to me. It isn't as if he
was getting a prize, either. That cheap little bag of flea-
bitten nothing!

6-5

(NINON comes out of the house)

Ninon

Mother Candita says won't you please come in to breakfast.

Josefa

(Going to her)

Darling little Ninon!
to pass, did you?

Did you ever think all this would come

Ninon

I hoped it would, Senorita Saldivar.

Josefa

Naturally you did, little lamb -- naturally you did. Every
girl does. What else is there for her to hope for? But you
know how it happens to often in Yucatan -- if a girl gives
herself to her fiance before they're safely married, the brute
refuses to marry her at all!

Ninon

Please, Senorita.

Josefa

Oh, my child, I don't mean you. Everybody knows about you,
you dear thing. But it's been the fate of so many girls --
girls who were unwise, I mean. Women are weak, yes they are
indeed! I wonder why it is men champ at the bit so! It gives
me the creeps. But you are a lucky little bride, and I hope
such happiness for you. Here, do drink my chocolate. It's
too rich for me.

(She puts the mug in her hands)

(NINON looks at her for a troubled violent
moment, and slams it on the floor. She runs
into the house)

Josefa

Well, for the love of the saints -- I didn't open my head!
Such impudence - it's insufferable! At six in the morning. You
know what it does -- it proves it -- every word I said! Oh, a
nest -- veritably a nest! How can you want to marry into such
pollution?

Cuco

(Furiously)

You ought to be shut up in a hole somewhere. You're a foul-mouthed slut, Josefa!

Josefa

Foul-mouthed, am I? I speak only the truth which everybody
knows - but you can't hear it because you're mad for the
precious Pilar!

(Cunningly)

And where do you spend your evenings now -- my little brother?
Oh, I hear you creeping in at dawn!

6-6

Cuco
My business is my own!

Josefa
Night after night! Such behavior! But bad as you are, I condone everything, I bow my head, I . . . .

Cuco
You're the bitch of the world, Josefa!

Josefa
Bitch, am I? And all because I want to save you from messing yourself up completely! Now I'll really tell you something. You noticed that Trino wasn't here at the wedding, didn't you? Well, where is he -- what's become of him, would you like to know! I'll tell you! Your fine holy Crespos!

(PILAR comes out of the house)

Pilar
Aren't you hungry, Josefa?

Josefa
Ravenous, ravenous!

Pilar
Please come in and eat.

Josefa
(Going)
I thought you were starving, Cuco.

Cuco
Go ahead.

Josefa
(With her nasty meanings)
Starving -- and you can wait? It isn't like you, not at all. I never saw you wait before - for something you wanted. (She goes in)

Cuco
(Bursting out)
My sister's a witch! A venomous old witch! Like most of the high-born ladies of Merida.

Pilar
I know. I suppose today gives them plenty to talk about.

Cuco
Any day! If nothing happens, they're very inventive.

Pilar
Why are they like that?

6-7

Cuco

Their world is here, this little peninsula. It's all they
know. The big world doesn't intrude very much. And they
have nothing else to do, so they talk, the bitches!

Pilar

(Thoughtfully)

The leisure and security their ancestors created for them --
and this is the way we use it!

Cuco

Not you, Pilar. You're not like that.

Pilar

I'm not any better.

Cuco

You're a million times better! Pilar - listen to me. I won't
let you talk against yourself.

Pilar

You can't stop me thinking. I'm sick of everything - myself
most of all.

Cuco

What is it? You're troubled. Is it the wedding? You didn't
want Fernando to marry her.

Pilar

It's what he wanted. She loves him deeply. I've accepted it --
even his going away to that steaming jungle to work in the
chicle.

Cuco

Then, what?

(Genuinely)

You know I'm your friend. If you're unhappy, I'm miserable
as hell, you know that. Can't you trust me?

Pilar

(Harassed but kindly)

I do trust you, Cuco. Only there's so much -- why should you
bother with the Crespo problems? That's what's on my mind
most of the time now, why I seem so abstracted and dull --
sometimes unkind to you, Cuco, whom I don't want ever to be
unkind to.

Cuco

Thank you, Pilar. But why don't you think of yourself -- not
always of the Crespos?

Pilar

But I do.

Cuco

No, it's always the family, the family!

6-8

Pilar

I must think of them.
(With febrile distress)

I can't forget that it was I who forced us all to come back
here. I thought it would be better -- it's got to be - even
if --!

(Seeing it clearly)

Cuco. That day in February - the sky was so blue and the air
so amber. We drove from the docks of Progreso. Merida was
like the swept snug house of a rich peasant expecting a visit
from the king. The open carriages and the hoof-beats of horses
echoed in the still streets. The smell of flowers burst over
their walls, drowning the senses. And the road here - like the
first road of the world - not a cloud over it -- the assured
bell-song of birds startled by our passing - the lovely hemp --
the miles of stone. And at last Techoh...... I cried for joy!
Then --

(Her face darkens)

Cuco

Then?

Pilar

Chela killed that magic -- oh, she couldn't help it, she had
to! She went away.

(Seeing it darkly)

And that night -- our first night here -- in the hemp mill
there was sudden bloody death.

Cuco

Oh, Pilar, don't think of it!

Pilar

(Unheeding)

A sign.

Cuco

(Impatiently)

I thought you were above superstition!

Pilar

Not here. This isn't the city - that man made with his brain.
Nature crowds the air with fore-knowledge in this land. Super-
stitions are wiser than the mind.

(Painfully)

And I keep seeing Chela in Havana - the dim streets, her
tawdry room - I see her bruised and hurt by the life she's
chosen. My mind makes pictures of her shame.

Cuco

Pilar, don't, don't!

6-9

Pilar

And Trino -- oh, he's here, he's all right, I'm behaving badly.... Don't listen!

(She tries to throw it off)

Cuco

Pilar, why didn't Trino come to his brother's wedding?

Pilar

Trino isn't living in the house any more.

Cuco

Why not?

Pilar

I don't *know*!

Cuco

What's happened to him? Where is he?

Pilar

He's living in a *jacal* beyond the gates.

Cuco

An Indian *jacal*?

Pilar

Yes.

Cuco

Why?

Pilar

(Restlessly)

I don't know, Cuco, I don't know!

(She goes and switches on the radio impatiently. A voice begins to come over, as it warms up)

Cuco

You never let me see you alone any more. What have I done?

My God, I'm dying, can't you see it? I used to think oblation - true oblation - would melt a heart of stone. I was wrong.

Pilar

You aren't wrong, Cuco. Be patient. Please be patient.

Cuco

How can I be, how?

Pilar

(As the voice begins to be clear)

Listen!

(They listen. It is unmistakably Chela singing)

6-10

Why, it's --

Cuco

Pilar
(Overjoyed)
It's Chela! On the radio. She's done it!

You see? --

Cuco

Yes, Cuco.

Pilar

Cuco
Your foolish foolish fears.

Pilar
I'll get mother.

(She hurries in the house to do so. The song goes on. It is a common song of the cheap cabarets of Havana. CUCO listens curiously)

(DONA CANDITA hurries out, her face radiant.
PILAR follows)

Don Candita
It is! Little Chelita! A miracle!

Don Candita

(They listen. The joy in DONA CANDITA's face slowly vanishes. She sits down in a chair. When the song ends, her handkerchief is at her eyes)

Voice of the Radio
You have just heard _Las Desgraciadas_, sung by Senorita Chelita Crespo.

(Other music begins to come over softly)

(PILAR deeply troubled, goes to her Mother)

Dona Candita
(Lifting her head)
The song . . . so strange..... Is it a nice song, Pilar?

Pilar
Of course, mother. Of course.

(She lifts her up gently, takes her to the door of the house. DONA CANDITA goes in)

(Facing him)
What do you think now?

Cuco
Well, I -- Very nice. She sings well.

6-11

Pilar

But -- something -- is it the kind of song --?

Cuco

It's the kind they all sing.

Pilar

All who, Cuco?

(No answer)

Tell me.

Cuco

The whores of Havana.

Pilar

(Sighs deeply)

Yes.

Cuco

(Protesting)

What of it? The girls have to. People like it. What's the matter with it anyway? She sings very well.

Pilar

Yes.

Cuco

Oh here, Pilar! - you ought to be celebrating! She's doing what she wants to -- doing it damn well -- She's a singer -- she's on the radio -- you ought to be glad for her!

Pilar

(Recovering - grateful for his help)

I am. I'm glad, Cuco. I'll make myself be glad.

Cuco

(Tenderly)

Little Pilar. When you first came, you seemed hard and rutless -- but so desirable.

(His deep feeling surging up)

I loved you then.

Pilar

(Softly, touched)

I know you did.

Cuco

I couldn't help myself, my eyes followed you everywhere, my thoughts ---! You're different to me now. Not so cold to me -- softer, more alluring than ever. I loved you then. I love you even more now. Don't keep me waiting, Pilar.

(With deep bitterness)

It's hell. You don't know!

(Pleading and strong)

You've been here since February. Seven months. Seven times I've asked you to marry me. What is it to be? You've said "No" so often.

6-13

Pilar

Well, for one thing - the banns.

Cuco

The banns -- what good are they? Rules, rules!

Pilar

We didn't make them. It's the Church.

Cuco

Two weeks, then. Three.

Pilar

Very soon. I have to see --

Cuco

What is there to see? Pretty soon you're going to lose the
<u>hacienda</u> - and damn quick, from all accounts. Then you'll
have to marry me! What else can you do? If you've got a
picture of Cardenas, I'll kiss it, I swear I will!

Pilar

(Thoughtfully)

Lose the <u>hacienda</u>? It can't be true.

Cuco

Very soon, little baby. The government has already dismembered
the estates in the Laguna district. They're beginning in Vera
Cruz. Next Yucatan. It won't be long.

Pilar

It won't happen. It can't. Can't it be stopped?

Cuco

Not a chance. Cardenas is a determined man, and the Indians
are back of him. He's arming them too - in case there's trouble.

Pilar

(Quietly)

I prayed for a year here - and the year is going - it's October
already, and so many things have gone wrong...

Cuco

There you are -- at it again! Worrying.

Pilar

Who will if I don't?

Cuco

I'll do it, little Pilar. For us both. From this time forth.
You'll marry me - practically at once -- we'll get the hell
out of Yucatan - travel -- Paris, London - !

Pilar

I couldn't --not right away.

6-14

Cuco

You will.

Pilar

Desert them? Cuco, I got them into this. I have to see them
out of it. You understood it before. Understand it now.

Cuco

(Sulky and accusing)

You don't love me at all.

Pilar

I do.

Cuco

How can I wait any longer? The agony goes on - only it's
worse now.

Pilar

You're acting like a child.

Cuco

(With feeling)

I'm a man -- with a man's natural appetites. I'm not made of
clay. What am I supposed to do? You'll kill us both with
your postponing.

Pilar

(Lightly, trying to appease him)

Cuco. Why look - we're _engaged_! I'm yours. I've promised.

Cuco

A word isn't the same as the fact. I've got to have you - it
must _be_ --! You say it will happen - then you condemn me to
hell again -- What's the use? I don't want you.

Pilar

(Gently)

Yes, you do, Cuco. Don't be angry. Wait a little while.
Not long.

(Radiantly)

I thought everything was lost -- closing in -- and now --
Let me sample this bliss --! It's a new day. The mists are
clearing. Hold me close!

Cuco

(Seduced)

You're trembling.

Pilar

I could sing!

Cuco

(Dazzled - excited)

Pilar - I forgot! I brought you a present.

6-15

Pilar

Where is it?

Cuco

(Getting the tiny trunk)

Here.

Pilar

A trunk. It's beautiful, Cuco!

Cuco

There's something inside.

Pilar

What is it? Open it.

(CUCO opens the little trunk - and lifts
out a beautiful old dress)

Cuco!

Cuco

Your wedding dress.

Pilar

(Overcome)

Oh!

(She holds it close to her)

(JOSEFA comes out of the house)

Josefa

Pilar - in the name of all the saints - what are you doing
with that dress, grandmother's wedding dress?

Pilar

(Quite crazily)

Josefa, Josefa!

(She seizes her, whirls her round)

I'm to be married in it - to Cuco - darling Cuco, wonderful

Cuco! I love Cuco, I love everybody!

(She runs into the house)

Josefa

Merciful heavens - madness! It'll never fit her - never!

CURTAIN

7-2

Beto

With work.

(TRINO laughs.)

Trino

Yes. And sweat. Would you believe it -- here it is December and baking. In New York the icicles hang from your ears.

Beto

New Yorkers must look very silly, then.

Trino

You'd be surprised how silly.

(He starts to eat. PILAR and DONA CANDITA appear at the door.)

Trino

(Jumping up)

Visitors! Come in.

(THEY come in. BETO gets up)

Dona Candita

We're intruding.

Trino

No, little mamsie.

Dona Candita

You're eating your dinner.

Trino

And there's plenty for you. Will you? I'll get it.
It's outside on the fire.

Dona Candita

We eat at one - as always. I'll wait.

Trino

Well, sit down, anyway, Pilar.

(He shows them places to sit. THEY sit down.)

Dona Candita

Good day to you, Beto.

Beto

Good day, Dona Candita.

7-3

(To Trino)
Are you comfortable here?

Dona Candita

Trino
In every way.

Dona Candita
What are you eating?

Trino
Posole.

Dona Candita
Holy Mother. Is that all?

Trino
No, baby. We have tortillas of maize . . . And a melon -- fresh from the vine.

Dona Candita
But hot from the sun.

Trino
Not a bit of it. See!

(He lifts it out of a tub of water.)
Cooling.

Dona Candita
I've brought you some cakes, and a pudding. I made them for you -- for both of you. The pudding is a little fallen, I don't know how it happened. I am disappointed in that pudding. But the taste is there.

Trino
Thank you mother.

Dona Candita
I haven't been in an Indian *Jacal* since I was a girl.
(Looking about)

It seems clean here.

Trino
Of course it's clean. A broom in the morning -- and much scrubbing at night. It's easy. What did you expect?

Dona Candita
I don't know. Dirt -- pigs all over the place.

(TRINO laughs. BETO smiles.)

7-4

Trino

There is a pig -- but he seems to be cut. He hasn't
smelled the food yet.

Pilar

We've hardly seen you - for over a month, Trino. Since
Fernando's wedding.

Trino

I know.

Pilar

We see you only in the distance - or crossing the lawn
at nightfall.

Trino

I've been busy.

Pilar

You look pale, Trino.

Trino

(Cheerfully.)

When you lift rocks all day in the broiling sun -- you're
bound to show it a little.

Dona Candita

Lift rocks, Trino? Why is that?

Trino

For a new milpa. Beto and I have cleared away a new piece
of the jungle. Now we're piling up the mojoneras, laying
out the field. This month -- a barren place. Next month --
the corn, green shoots. Eventually - harvest, food in the
stomach, happiness in the heart. That's the way it goes.

Dona Candita

Are there not Indians enough to do such work?

Trino

Ah -- and to spare. But they're busy in the hemp. They
haven't any time to raise food for themselves. So I must
work, too.

(A pause...)

Dona Candita

I'm troubled, son.

Trino

What is it?

Dona Candita

Why did our forefathers toil so -- if their descendants
have to struggle like the beasts of the field?

7-5

Trino

Our forefathers toil, mama? Cracking a whip all day long,
till their fat right arms ached -- was that work?

Dona Candita

I don't understand you.

Trino

Don't try, little mother.

Put me down for a fool.

Dona

Candita

You aren't painting anymore.

Trino

Painting? Not! What good is it?

Pilar

I liked your painting, Trino.

Trino

I don't remember it that way, Pilar.

Dona Candita

You painted so beautifully!

Trino

Flowers in a vase -- flowers alert -- flowers dropping
their petals -- flowers dead on their stems!

Dona Candita

I have kept them all.

Trino

(With his first show of violence, but quiet
and controlled.)

No, mother! Don't keep them! They're sickening and
they're a lie! Burn them, mamacita, burn them! Don't
have such lies about you. Open your eyes and see!

Dona Candita

(Softly.)

My eyes are old - and tired of looking. What I see hurts
me -- like staring at the sun. Forgive me, son. I'll
go now.

(SHE gets up.)

Trino

(Going to her, touched.)

Mother, sweet little mother.

7-6

Dona Candita
You love me, don't you, Trino?

Trino
You know I do, mother.

Dona Candita
Come back to us.

Trino
I'm here. I'm by your side.

Dona Candita
Come back to your old room -- in the house of your people.

Trino
No, mother.

Dona Candita
I beg you!

Trino
(Turning away, troubled by his inability to comply.)
I can't.

Dona Candita
Where are you going -- what are you doing with the life I gave you from my body? What folly and madness possesses you? Come back.

Trino
(Quiet and sure)
Death is in that house, mother. The walls are cracking. In the darkness of night, haven't you heard the shifting of stone on stone?

Dona Candita
The house has stood this long. It will stand.

Trino
Not long, mother.

Dona Candita
It was built to last forever.

Trino
So were the temples of Uxmal, the mighty pyramid of Chichen! But the jungle - the living vine -- the crawl-ing vital piercing tendrils creep at the base, at every crack -- and make of their splendor a jumble of stones for lizards and vermin to breed in! Life is in the earth, mother -- in the earth and the people of earth -- not in the arrogant stone!

7-7

Pilar

You're hurting her!

Trino

I'm sorry.
(Fiercely)

You put her up to it, Pilar!

Dona Candita

No, it is from me, your sorrowing mother.

Trino

(Tenderly)
I do what I must do, little mother. You've borne a lot. Bear this.

Dona Candita

We've lost Chela -- Fernando. Must we count you among the lost ones?

Trino

I'm here, mother. And for the first time in my life - happy.

Dona Candita

(Touched, bowing to her fate)
I must content myself with that, then - if you are happy. I'll try, son, I'll try.

Pilar

Why must she be content with that? Why are the oldasked to bend and bend, till they can bend no more? You're cruel, Trino.

Trino

This is between me and mother.

Pilar

(Accusingly)
Will you kill her? She's with us for a little time only, you know that. What are you doing, in this willful and selfish way, that's so important it can't wait?

Trino

Wait!

Pibr

(With contempt)
Lifting stones, sweating in the fields like an ox -- what good is it?

Trino

(Sharp and sultry)
That isn't it! How little you understand! I'm allied with

7-8

Trino (Cont'd.)

something at last -- can't you see it? -- allied with something -- and it's no longer death. I'll help all I can to wipe out the stench of rottenness in this land -- the stench our fathers left behind them!

Pilar

Fernando talked that way in New York. Thank God he got over it!

Trino

And how did he get over it? Why? His own pollution -- and a piece of flesh he wanted! And he's forgotten everything!

Pilar

(With deadly emphasis.)
You'd do well to do the same.

Trino

Is it on that side you bark now? I seem to remember you hated his marriage, you thought it beneath him.

Pilar

(With sharp insistence)

His marriage was a mistake! I say so still. But a natural one. Not like you, my brother -- not like you! Fernando's mistake was a natural one!

(A horrible thing is happening. They both know it, the air is tense with it -- but they are powerless to stop. The words pour out, swift and barbed.)

Trino

What do you mean?

Pilar

(With heated contempt, her meaning still veiled.)

Can't you even talk to your own family any more without others present? Why is this? Are you a coward alone?

Trino

Nearly all men are cowards alone.

Pilar

(With cutting passion.)

There's reason for your bravery now, little brother! And I know what it is! I'm not blind - and I won't be silent. This, sore will see the light, do you hear? You have Beto, that's what it is -- you have Beto and you're not afraid!

7-9

Pilar (Cont'd.)

My brother's a <u>puto</u>, a stinking <u>puto</u>!

Trino

(His voice husky with menace)

Take it back!

Pilar

I won't!

(TRINO slaps her. She stands unbending,
in deadly defiance.)

I say it again!

Trino

(Sickened.)

You make me sick at my stomach.

(With accusing power)

Would I be having an affair with my brother? Would I? Not
with my brother -- or with any man?

Pilar

(With superb contempt)

Brother!

Trino

Yes, <u>brother</u>. Beto is my brother -- <u>your</u> brother.

Pilar

Recognized by whom?

Trino

By me!

Pilar

That doesn't make it true!

Trino

Close your eyes to the fact, if it pleases you. The
fact is still there.

(DONA CANDITA, unable to hear any more,
goes out, her head bowed in shame and grief.)

Pilar

(Weakly)

How can you say things like that in front of mother?

Just the memory of father's unfaithfulness is enough to
make her sick. You want to prove it, to put the living
shame in front of her, to turn the knife blade in the
wound. All afternoon now, all night, she'll be on her
knees.

7-10

Trino

(In anguish.)

Praying for me. I know.

Pilar

(Sick)

For us all. Her children --- who give her nothing but pain.

(THEY are sickened by the thing they
have brought to pass)

(Hating herself)

God - how could I let this happen?

(After a moment - her voice flat and
dead.)

You were right, Trino. I put her up to it.

Trino

The cost, Pilar, the cost!

Pilar

(In bitter despair)

Yes, I know. I thought it was wrong for you to have left
the house. I saw the family - the family I honor and
believe in - one by one - falling away. I thought it my
business to interfere -- to try to stop the inevitable.
I used mother - not for her good - to serve this passion
in me. Why do I have to be like this? I could kill my-
self. Where will it end - where?

(DON SEVERO comes in, letter in his hand:
They all look at him, with premonition,
waiting his word. He seems older, tireder.)

Trino

Father?

Don Severo

Yes. It's happened. The Government's order of dispos-
session. The blow has fallen.

Pilar

(To herself)

At last.

(Lifting her head.)

When do we have to leave?

Don Severo

At once. This afternoon. Or tonight.

7-11

Pilar

(Rising.)

So much to do. Does mother know?

Don Severo

Not yet. It's hard to -- will you tell her, Pilar?

Pilar

(After a moment, seeing how hard it will be.)

Yes. I'll tell her. Poor mother! This, too.

Trino

I can't pretend to be sad about it. I thought it would never come!

Don Severo

(Reminded.)

There's more. Trino . . .

(Looking at the letter.)

The government knows your interest and concern for the welfare of the Indians. "Your son, Trinidad," it says. "He will report at once to the office of Sr. del Rio in Merida, to assist in the partitioning of all <u>haciendas</u> in eastern Yucatan."

Trino

Father!

Don Severo

Also -- "An Indian boy on the <u>hacienda of Techoh</u>".

Beto, it means. "Will render aid and advice in the correct dismemberment and reapportionment of the lands of the <u>hacienda of Techoh</u>, where he now resides."

Trino

But what -- how did they know?

Don Severo

They asked me for suggestions.

Trino

I could kiss you for this!

Pilar

(Knowing the answer)

You'll do what they tell you, Trino? You're on their side?

Trino

Can you doubt it?

7-12

Pilar

No.

(Hunting something to cling to)

Was there no other mail, father - word from Chela?

Fernando?

Don Severo

Yes. A letter from Fernando.

Pilar

What does he say? Let me have it.

Don Severo

(Reluctantly)

Hardly anything.

Pilar

Is he doing well, is he all right?

Don Severo

(Lifting the letter, skimming through
it)

"Bitten with flies, lice... the putrid food... The
steaming unbearable heat of the chicle jungle... Minon
is pregnant... I lie in my hammock at night, cursing..."

(He stops)

Pilar

Yes.

Don Severo

"Cursing the blood that drove us to this... cursing myself
for being so low as to blame anyone else for my weakness
and my despair."

(PILAR bows her head, goes. A moment of
a feeling silence.)

Don Severo

(His voice low)

Fernando - my first-born son. He was to be the sole
and the comfort of my old age.

## SCENE 8

Dona Candita's bedroom again, that
night. The room is stripped for
departure, except for the altar, a
chair, the pictures, some things
piled on the rumpled great bed.
The room is spottily lighted, with
ominous shadows at the corners, and
sudden splashes of light from the
kerosene lamps. The radio is still
there, and a voice is coming over it.

DONA CANDITA and PILAR are listening,
breathless and tense. Dona Candita
is dressed for travelling. Pilar's
clothes are severe -- worthy of
tragedy.

### Voice
(Tense and dynamic)

Attention, senoras y senores! News comes of a series of further tragedies in the state of Yucatan. The partitioning of the haciendas has begun there, as decreed by the federal government. On the hacienda of Don Alberto Solís, the Indians, inflamed to passion against Senor Solís for his cruelties and abuses over the many years of their servitude, seized tonight the moment of their coming to power to raid the Solís house and to massacre all people within. The dead: Don Alberto, his wife, his young daughter. The older son escaped with his life, but on the road to Merida was ambushed and left in the road for dead. He will recover.

Dona Candita
Poor Dona Rafaela! In the old days, I knew her.

### Voice
Also at the hacienda of the Three Towers -- The dead: all members of the family of Don Fausto Padillo. That is all. We take you now to our studios.

(The radio switches to dim music)

Dona Candita
Pilar -- we are to be murdered.

Pilar
No, no, memcita! For cruelties and abuses, the radio says. We've not been cruel.

8-2

Dona Candita

(With a touch of prescience)

It's not what we've done - it's what we are.

(There is a burst of singing, loud and throbbing
with triumph from the Indians outside, ending
with crazy shouts)

Dona Candita (Cont'd)

You hear?

(She hurries to the window, looks out)

They are drinking the cane rum and shouting. From there
it is but a step to --

(She closes the window, bolts it)

We must fly, Pilar. I have left my own room to the last.
Do finish for me, Pilar. The pictures -- there's a box
there to put them in. The things on the bed.

Pilar

(Quietly, absorbed)

My heart's not in it. It's strange.

Dona Candita

Please, please, Pilar, stir yourself.

Pilar

Yes, mother.

Dona Candita

I must see what your father is doing. He is so slow. He
must see that the carriage is ready, the cart is nearly full
already, a thousand things to think of!

(There are shots off, more shouts)

You hear --?

Pilar

They are only celebrating our dispossession. Don't be afraid,
little memaie.

(But her face shows that she is beginning to
be afraid herself. She goes quickly to begin
packing the pictures)

Dona Candita

No. Perhaps you are right.

(She hurries out)

(PILAR looks about anxiously, with some fear showing
in her face. Then she takes a picture from its
hook)

8-3

## Voice (Radio)

And now, ladies and gentlemen -- our beloved songster from Yucatan --

(PILAR listens)

La Senorita Chelita Crespo. A transcription.

## Pilar

Chela.

(The song is in Spanish, common and haunting, such as Pilar heard earlier.)

(PILAR turns to switch off the radio impatiently, but she can't. She throws the picture on the bed, and stands listening.)

(The door opens before the song is finished, and CHELA comes in. She has changed. Her eyes burn with a febrile fire. She has been hurt, and is hard with the hardness of the hurt. But there is a rude undespairing power in her. Her clothes are flamboyant)

## Pilar

(In astonishment)

Chels!

(She looks from Chela to the radio just finishing Chela's song, in bewilderment)

But Chela --

## Chela

I'm not a ghost. It's a recording. I made it a week ago.

## Pilar

(Going to her, her arms out)

Chels, Chels, my darling Chels!

(She takes her in her arms. Chela does not respond)

What's the matter?

## Chela

Matter? Here I am at home, good God, all is love -- what could be the matter? Nada, nada, little chicken!

Where's Mama?

## Pilar

Somewhere -- probably in father's room. Oh, Chela, we've lost the hacienda! We're running away.

## Chela

For your lives, I gather. Yes, I heard all about it.

What a shame!

(But her tones have contempt in them)

How can you stand it?

8-4

Pilar

I don't know. I don't know how I can. And what a home-
coming for you.

Chela

Homecoming! Home is where the chapeau is, where hangs the
bright sombrero! And how do you like mine?

(She indicates her hat. PILAR IS silent)

You don't like it.

(Viciously)

What the hell do I care what you like!

Pilar

(Quietly)

You've changed.

Chela

Thank God for that! Did you like the song?

(No answer)

Did you?

Pilar

Yes.

Chela

Hypoerite! No nice girl sings songs like that -- and you
say you like it --! You're a liar, Pilar.

Pilar

(Staring at her)

Your eyes are strange.

Chela

(Panicky, turning away)

Leave me alone!

Pilar

Chela! Look at me.

Chela

No, no!

Pilar

It's marihuana!

Chela

It's not true!

Pilar

Your eyes show it!

Chela

(Giving in - her voice hard)

So what?

8-5

Pilar

How could you?

Chela

(Flaring out)

What do you expect? I'm a working girl, see. The hours
face you -- and the men clamor for you and paw at you as
you pass. And fight over you! But you go home by your-
self if you can. But you can't! You remember what you
must do to get ahead in the chivalrous Latin world! And
you go crazy, or you take to something. Marihuana for
mine. Have one yourself!

(She shoots out a package)

It'll solve your troubles, the stars will sing!

(At Pilar's revulsion)

Don't be so damned pure and mighty. You've got something --
your family about you -- Cuco -- love -! What have I got?

Pilar

(Touched)

Poor Chela.

Chela

(Recovering)

Don't worry about me. I'll get along.

(Conviction growing in her)

It's life anyway - it's what I asked for. I'll get through
this. I'll win out. I'll be happy someday. I know it, I
know it deep!

(TRINO comes in. He is dressed for going
away, has come to his mother's room to
say Good-bye)

Trino

Chela!

Chela

Trino, Trino darling!

(She runs to him, clings to him)

Trino

I didn't know you were --

Chela

(Brokenly)

Trino! Take me to mother.

Trino

Yes, baby, yes. We'll find her.

(He takes her out)

(As PILAR watches, a dark shape passes the
window)

Pilar

(With a start of fear)

8-6

Pilar (Cont'd)

Who's there?

Beto
(Appearing in the door)
Beto, Pilar.

Pilar
What are you skulking about for?

Beto
Nothing.

Pilar
We've been thrown out - the land, everything is yours. Aren't
you satisfied? Why do they send you here to spy on us, and
gloat over us?

Beto
I am responsible for your safety, that's all.

Pilar
(Her breath drawn in quickly)
Safety? Are we in danger then?

Beto
I don't think so.

Pilar
(Sharp with fear)
You're lying! They intend to kill us! Why don't you say so!
On the radio - we heard it - the butchery -!
(Her voice dim - and husky with panic)
Trino, Trino!

Beto
(Stopping her)
Please, please, Pilar. Trino asked me to watch. That's all.
Don't be frightened.

Pilar
(Weakly, recovering)
Beto, my nerves are on edge. Everything is -- I'm all
right now. I didn't mean to speak to you like that.

Beto
It doesn't matter.

(TRINO appears at the door, comes in)

Trino
(Puzzled)
What is it?

Beto
Trino, I --
(He goes out)

8-7

Trino

Chela has changed.

Pilar

(after a brief moment, struggling to
sound calm)

Yes.

Trino

I never expected to see her again.

Pilar

Little Chela. Creeping home for comfort. We'll make it
up to her.

Trino

Didn't she tell you?

Pilar

What?

Trino

She hasn't come creeping home. Not her! She was about to
sail for New York. She only came to see us -- mother
really - in case she never saw her again.

Pilar

Oh.

Trino

She's to star in a music show on Broadway. Her name in
lights! She's got what she wanted - most of it.

Pilar

(Dimly, to herself, hurt)

She didn't tell me.

Trino

I've said Good-bye to them. I must go now.

Pilar

Must you, Trino?

Trino

I should have gone this afternoon. They're waiting for me.

Pilar

Yes. Trino -- you wouldn't leave us here, if you thought we
were in danger, would you?

Trino

Of course not. What foolishness!

(Gently)

Father's got a place for you in town. It's hard - I know -
I'm sorry.

Pilar

(Without acrimony)

8-8

Pilar (Cont'd)

But you're glad too, Trino.

Trino

Yes. It's right - what's happened. I know it is. The others are to have their chance now -- as we had ours, without earning it.

Pilar

And what will they do with power, tell me that.

Trino

The Mayans have always accepted authority from above, meekly. Now there's no authority above them - for the first time in centuries. There'll be abuses at first. It's inevitable. The politico crooks and dispossessed hacendados will scheme their guts out to get back what they've lost to ignorant Indians, accustomed only to the labor of the body. But the idea of the right to power goes to starving cells quickly. And it won't die so easily in their veins. They'll learn to fight.

Pilar

And to win?

Trino

And to win.

Pilar

You believe - and aren't troubled. I believe, too - they have no right to do this to us. But they do. Does it mean I'm wrong?

Trino

I think so.

Pilar

What star were you born under that let you see what was to be?

Trino

(Offended, but quiet)

Pilar. I didn't see what "was to be". I'm not on the right side for my own good.

Pilar

I'm sorry.

Trino

It's all right.

Pilar

(With wonder)

You're gentle and kind now -- even to me. Why?

Trino

I don't feel sorry for myself anymore. The world moves somewhere - with pain for so many. I haven't time to think of myself - there's work to do.

8-9

Pilar

Would you have learned this in New York?

Trino

Perhaps not. I'm grateful to you for bringing us here.

(Softly, with tenderness)

Pilar. My good is your downfall - I see that.

Pilar

I can fall. I can die.

Trino

(With quiet strength)

Don't die. Live. Good-bye, Pilar.

(He takes her in his arms)

Pilar

Good-bye.

(He goes out. PILAR is deeply moved, thrust along a road she can't see the end of, and no help, and no guidance)

(A burst of shouting, more shots rings out from outside. Laughter, wild and high.)

(CUCO comes in, haggard and quiet. PILAR goes quickly to him, into his arms)

Pilar

Cuco, Cuco darling - hold me, hold me close! Something dreadful is coming -- and I can't see what it is!

(Something queerly unearthly, close to hysteria is in her voice)

Cuco

Pilar.

Pilar

There's a mist around me, everywhere I look - shapes of horror thrusting up with menacing eyes. Chela's come back - she hates me still - she looks at me. Fernando's lost in the jungle, dying of bitterness - his pitiful pregnant wife - Trino's gone away forever to make our ruin complete - till the last of the Tueros and the Crespos and all such people are slaughtered - slung in the grave! What's to come now? I can't see, but I know it's there. What is it! I can't see, but I know it's there, I --

Cuco

Quiet, quiet!

Pilar

(Going away, stumbling into the chair, her hand at her head, wearily, struggling for control)

Oh --

8-10

Cuco

(In a strange hard voice)

Your mother told me to help you. Let's get at it.

Pilar

Yes, the pictures.

(He goes toward them)

Cuco

Yes, the pictures. The pretty pictures.

(He jerks one savagely from its hook)

Pilar

(Noticing)

What is it, Cuco?

Cuco

Nothing.

Pilar

Yes, tell me. Something.

(She goes toward him, throwing off her dismay)

Cuco

Pilar, you'll merry me now, won't you? At once.

Pilar

As soon as we're settled in town.

Cuco

(With savage insistence)

"As soon, as soon"! I'm sick of it. I've heard it for the last time, It'll be now, I tell you - tonight. I'm giving the orders.

Pilar

You have no right to talk to ----

Cuco

I have every right! For months I begged you to marry me -
I pleaded with you on my knees. It took you months to say
"Yes" - and then you began again with your god-damned "soon".
Why was this, why?

Pilar

(Alarmed at his mood)

You know. You know!

Cuco

All the time you loved me, wanted me. You did love me, didn't you?

Pilar

Yes, I did. I have for a long time.

Cuco

But you kept putting me off.

8-11

Pilar

I was putting myself off, too. Don't you think I'm human?

Cuco

(Agonized, the words pouring out in
his desperation)

I don't know. You don't know what it is to be a man. A man
in love - tantalized with "soon, soon." Till his whole body's
an aching torture, and there's no sleep for him, and no help
for him from the one who ought to help him. Till he can't
stand it, and he roams the streets, and meets in the dark
places whatever fate lies in wait for him. Or he goes to the
houses, with their hearty wenches shipped from Vera Cruz or
worn-out mulattos from the racket in Mexico. The promise of
peace! It's me I'm talking about - me!

Pilar

No, no!

Cuco

Straight from the arms of my beloved - to women who can be
paid - women glad of a little money to take away the fever
that's destroying me!

Pilar

(Sick with revulsion)

No, no, Cuco, don't tell me!

Cuco

Ten long months you've done this to me, and you say "Don't
tell me!"

Pilar

Please!

Cuco

How do you like it, eh? Sweet, isn't it? Well, have a little
hell-fire yourself for a change. Stew in it - as I do! I
ought to kill you!

(He throws himself into a chair, weak with
fury at her and at himself)

Pilar

(After a horrible moment)

Take me. If it means anything to you.

Cuco

Pilar - what're you -

Pilar

Take me.

Cuco

You don't understand. I'm filthy. I've rolled in the mires
of women - any women - white, yellow, black, any woman I could
find - night after night--!

8-12

Pilar

I don't care. Take me.

Cuco

Pilar! You don't know what you're saying!

Pilar

Yes, I know. What does it matter? Take me. I'm yours.

Cuco

You don't mean it, you can't!

Pilar

Yes, I didn't know, I didn't know.

(He runs to the door, bars it)

Pilar

What're you -- no, Cuco -- not here --!

Cuco

Here! Now!

Pilar

The others! They'll come in!

Cuco

They've gone!

Pilar

Gone!

Cuco

Yes. I told them I'd bring you with me. They haven't waited.
We're alone.

Pilar

No, Cuco, no! This room. This is mother's room. Her things
are here. Her altar. Her pictures.

Cuco

Pictures!

(He smashes one across the room)

Pilar

They're watching us!

Cuco

They don't see you. They don't know you - they're dead!

Pilar

Their eyes are on us - ashamed, accusing. I couldn't!

Cuco

They don't know you.

8-13

Pilar

They know me.

Cuco

And I know you. Now I know you! These - these are between us.
Not only the living - the dead!

Pilar

Yes, yes!

Cuco

I might have known. It isn't to be. You're free - free to
lick the feet of the dead - who don't give a damn! They
don't! The dead have betrayed you! And the living don't
want you. Your family doesn't. Nor do I! I wouldn't have
you now.

Pilar

Cuco!

Cuco

I can see your fate. No one in Merida will speak to you, you
know that. They'll say I refused to marry you, because I had
you before marriage. Josefa will see to that. You won't be
able to stand it! Ninon and her mother couldn't - what the
tongues did to them. You can't either. You'll have a walking
death, whispers always in your ears! Your last chance is
gone. Your grave is dug for you.

Pilar

(Her voice dead)

Yes. You've said it all. Get out.

Cuco

(Weakening)

Pilar!

Pilar

Get out.

(CUCO goes to the door, unlocks it, opens
it, turns)

Cuco

I can't leave you!

Pilar

You will leave me.

Cuco

(Agonized)

Say it - I'm a toad, a snake, the lowest - disgusting,
crawling --!

Pilar

You're a Latin, Cuco. A high-born aristocratic Yucatecan -

8-14

Pilar (Cont'd)

the privileged, the inheritor of all good - the ultimate
dream, the triumph of the blood.

(Her voice shaken with realization)

Like me - Cuco. Save yourself if you can. Get out before
It's too late.

Cuco

What will you do?

Pilar

What does it matter?

(He goes out)

(After a moment, PILAR goes to the bed, crawls
up in it, a tiny stricken figure on the great
bed, shaken with sobs)

(DON SEVERO and DONA CANDITA come in)

Dona Candita

(In alarm)

Pilar@ Cuco said he'd bring you. I was worried. Come, child.
Hurry, hurry!

Pilar

(Lifting herself up, wearily)
I'm not going.

Dona Candita

Pilar.

Pilar

Leave me, mother.

Dona Candita

The saints in heaven -- we can't leave you here!

(A desperate resolve is growing in Pilar. It
is in her face clearly)

Pilar

You must!

Don Severo

Pilar -- what kind of insanity - !

Dona Candita

You poor baby, what is it?

Pilar

Father. Long ago in New York - I called you a failure. Have
you ever forgiven me for that?

Don Severo

I haven't forgotten it.

8-16

(THEY go out)

(The radio, which has been playing all this time, comes surging up, crowded with despair-- but with a desperate hope beating in it.)

(There are scraps of singing from the Indians, and some shouts)

(BETO comes into the doorway, a lantern in his hand)

Beto
I've come to light your way.

Pilar
(Like one drugged, the words meaningless to her)
Light my way?

Beto
The others have left you. I've saddled a horse for you. This lantern will show you the path.

Pilar
Beto. No, no, listen to me! (She runs to him)
Let them kill me.

Beto
They won't kill you, Pilar.

Pilar
They will! They must! I don't want to live!

Beto
They're celebrating. They're happy. There's no hate in them.

Pilar
I've seen them turn from singing to murder. In a moment it happens! That night at the hemp mill. The machete! One clean stroke. Turn them against me! Let them kill me! Do this for me.

Beto
No.

Pilar
Please, Beto -- I beg you. On my knees, I beg you!

Beto
No, Pilar.

Pilar
Make them understand. I'm everything they hate. Do this! You are my brother - you must help me!

8-17

Beto

No.

Pilar

(Quietly, beaten)
Even that is denied me.

(She goes away)

Beto

You must go on living.

Pilar

(Dazed, emotionless)

Living.

Beto

Here is your shell of a house, your walls safely around you.

Pilar

Safe.

Beto

No one will molest you. You will be ignored -- till the walls crumble, and you with them. But the walls are heavy.

Pilar

Heavy. And the years are long.

(Without self-pity, visionary and
tragic and haunted -- her tired mind
groping toward courage and light.)

I see it now . . . drag out the bitter years alone. If people remember me, they'll remember my vanity and my pride. Perhaps they'll remember, too, I was born out of my time -- with violent calls reproducing themselves endlessly in my blood... remember the passion that created me was the passion of a world younger and crueler, peopled with harshness and bloodshed - that my puny efforts to change were always too late -- and in vain.

(A deep sigh - like a faint and ghostly
breath of pain - escapes her for a moment.
Then she goes on)

Remember that I deserve - not to die - but to live a long time - a living death. Let no one pity me. Pity is not for me.

Let them be glad of my death, and the death in the world of all I have had to represent -- the wrong and the viciousness and the tyranny. For as I go to defeat - the times of joy come nearer ... when a thwarted and stricken people - can sing again ... be free again.

Beto

(Low and clear)

The slaves are satisfied. They have the fields, the yielding earth. Life is before them.