Page 59 - The English Carnival 7

safe buried deep in their basement. It will probably not see the light of day
again.

MARY : Hmmm. I’d like to have a closer look at this one, if I may?

BARRY : I have already explained that you’d have to buy...
(As Barry talks, Mary moves her briefcase onto the counter. She opens it and

turns it towards Barry.)
BARRY : (continued) ...it for...

PAUSE

How much is that?
MARY : (now in complete control)

One hundred thousand pounds. In cash.

(Barry is open-mouthed. He shakes his head in disbelief.)

BARRY : Ok. (Not taking his eyes off the money Barry pushes the comic to Mary. Mary
picks the comic up. Barry picks up a stack of money.

Mary gazes at the comic with the same love Barry is gazing at the money. Mary
unseals the plastic jacket and slides the comic out. This wakes Barry from his
trance.)

BARRY : Be careful! I know you just paid all this beautiful money for it but remember
it is unique.

MARY : Not quite unique.
BARRY : Ha, yes. I suppose we won’t go

over that again. Is there anything
else you want?

MARY : No, no. I’m fine.
(holding the unsealed comic) This
is all I came for.

BARRY : Good. Your son will be pleased.

MARY : I don’t have a son.

BARRY : Well, daughter then...
What you Think?ou Think?
Look, I hope you don’t mind if I What y
just go and put this money away What did Mary do to
in my safe. (Barry greedily picks the comic ?
up the still-open briefcase, turns
and walks out. )

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The Englsih Carnival-8