Cuban American Theater

gift is responsible for her own virginity, mister. (Blackout.)

Later, at FRANCES'apartment. The telephone rings. FRANCES answers it.

FRANCES: Yes, Mrs. Thompson. What wonderful news! How happy it makes me to know that, at last, that poor little one has been saved from living with such inhumane parents. Thank you. I'm grateful. Yes, yes, yes. (Blackout.)

CLAUDIA: Did I offend you in anything?

FRANCES: It's okay. Remember that what there is in the kitchen and in the kitchen cabinet is to be divided between three people. Therefore, I hope that you are not a greed eater and show some consideration of others.

CLAUDIA: Is there anybody else living here?

FRANCES: My grandson. I think he studies with you in the same school.

CLAUDIA: Then I know him. At school I'm the most popular girl in all the classes, and in all the courses, ever since I started high school.

FRANCES: If you want to, you can call me grandmother.

CLAUDIA: I'd rather call you Mrs. Frances, for now.

FRANCES: You'll get used to it.

CLAUDIA: Soon my parents will come out and I'll return home.

FRANCES: Darling, that is going to take a long time. You ought to conform. The accusations are strong.

CLAUDIA: How do you know?

FRANCES: Starting today, you are under my guidance and responsibility. I must know everything, every step. If you don't follow the straight line which has been set for you by the authorities, the law will fall on your head as it has fallen on your parents'.

CLAUDIA: (Trying to control herself.) I'm sorry, but this conjunctivitis is making my eyes water. ( FRANCESexits the room. CLAUDIA closes the door in haste. She runs toward the suitcase and takes out her fathers's overcoat which she

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