A cell. The walls are gray and fade upwards into the shadows
so that the ceiling is not seen, and it might even be possible
to escape upwards. The door is Right. Backstage is a high,
barred window through which the sky looks very blue. Under
the window is a stool. Against the Left wall is a bench with a
wooden cupboard next to it. On the cupboard a washbasin, a
towel and a Bible.

A small fat man is standing on the stool on tiptoes, his hands
in his pockets. His eyes are on the sky.

Bolts shoot back. The door opens. MORGENHALLstrides in. He
is dressed in a black gown and bands, an aged barrister with
the appearance of a dusty vulture. He speaks off stage, to the
warder.

MORGENHALL (To an unseen warder): Is this where . . . you keep
Mr. Fowle? Good, excellent. Then leave us alone like a kind fellow.
Would you mind closing the door? These old places are so drafty.

(The door closes. The bolts shoot back)

Mr. Fowle . . . Where are you, Mr. Fowle? Not escaped, I pray.
Good heavens man, come down. Come down, Mr. Fowle.

(He darts at him, and there is a struggle as he pulls down the be-
wildered FOWLE)

I haven't hurt you?

( FOWLE, negative sounding noise)

I was suddenly anxious. A man in your unfortunate position. Des-
perate measures. And I couldn't bear to lose you. . . . No, don't
stand up. It's difficult for you without braces, or a belt, I can see.
And no tie, no shoelaces. I'm so glad they're looking after you. You
must forgive me if I frightened you just a little, Mr. Fowle. It was
when I saw you by that window . . .

FOWLE (A hoarse and sad voice): Epping Forest.

MORGENHALL: What did you say?

FOWLE: I think you can see Epping Forest.

MORGENHALL: No doubt you can. But why, my dear chap, why should
you want to?

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