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Rango, Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Helena Bonham Carter

TO INDEX SCRIPTS

.....

FINDING NEVERLAND

SCRIPT - DIALOGUE TRANSCRIPT

Transcript written by Angela Sugden

Director: Marc Foster
Writers: Allan Knee (play), David Magee (screenplay)
With: Johnny Depp, Kate Winslet, Julie Christie, Nick Roud, Radha Mitchell, Joe Prospero, Freddie Highmore, Dustin Hoffman

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Voices

Lights up. 5 minute call please. Places. Everyone to their places.

Charles

Opening nights? I love opening nights. How are you?

Man 1

Good to see you.

Man 2

Good evening, Charles, this is my wife.

Charles

Oh, Lydia, Herbert, may I give you a peck?

Man 3

One of Mr Barrie's finest?

Charles

Oh, that genius Gusmann has done it again, it's the best thing I've produced in 25 years.

Man 3

Really?

Charles

I already have investors interested back home in New York.

Man 3

See you on Broadway.

Voice

1st position, people. Standing by please, ladies and gentlemen, if you could take your opening positions please. Beginners please take your opening positions. Audience are coming in, standing by.

Usher

Good audience.

James

Sorry?

Usher

Good audience, tonight.

James

That's great. Thank you. How much longer?

Usher

10 minutes.

Charles

I love opening nights. I want a dance with your wife at the after party. Oh, my goodness.

John

Good evening, sir.

Charles

How are you, John?

John

Very well.

Charles

It's the best thing that I've produced in 25 years. Hello, George, how are you?

Man

Healthy and wealthy I see.

Charles

You've rearranged a holiday for me. I won't forget.

Man

For you, Charles.

Charles

You won't regret it.

Man

I'm sure.

Mrs Snow

Have you got the tickets?

Mr Snow

Yes, they're in my pocket.

Mrs Snow

Oh, there's Mrs Barrie.

Mary Barrie

Mr & Mrs Snow.

Mrs Snow

We were so hoping to speak with your husband before the show.

Mr Snow

Have you seen him?

Mary

I'm not sure where he is actually.

Mrs Snow

We do miss seeing you on stage, you were so wonderful.

Mary

Yes? Well it's been some time now. Are you all right to find your seat?

Mrs Snow

Oh yes, yes. See you at the party then.

Mary

Excuse me. Would you find Mr Barrie and remind him that they're doing his play this evening.

Usher

Yes, Madam.

Mary

Thank you.

Charles

Let's close the doors.

Actor 1

Really, I mustn't inconvenience you in this way. I can wait quite well in the shop.

Actor 2

'Tis no inconvenience, the shop is chilly.

Actor 1

And there is a fire here. Really, uncommonly good.

Usher

Sorry, sir, um, Mrs Barrie wanted me to remind you that the play's begun, though I imagine you know that.

James

They hate it.

Usher

Sir?

James

It's like a dentist's office out there, why?

Usher

I wouldn't say they hate it, sir.

James

What do you think? Do you like it?

Usher

I've just been hiding, sir.

James

Yes or no, I'm not bothered.

Usher

I'm not really qualified to. . .

James

Do you like it? Is it crap?

Usher

Crap, sir?

James

Go on, say it, just say it. Its shite isn't it? Go on, say it.

Usher

I don't know if I'm. . .

James

It's bulls' pizzle, Mr Barrie, go on, say it.

Usher

It's bulls' pizzle, Mr Barrie.

James

I knew it.

Usher

No, I haven't even seen it.

James

I knew it. Thank you. Thank you very much.

Man 1

Absolute rubbish from start to finish.

Man 2

Yes, I found it fearfully dull.

Man 3

You can say goodbye to your investment, old boy.

Charles

Good to see you, my apologies.

James

We'll get them with the next one, Charles, I promise.

Charles

Of course we will, James.

James

I know you put a lot into this one.

Charles

A fortune James, but I'm fortunate because I can afford to lose a fortune.

James

Can you?

Charles

No, I can't. How are you?

James

Arthur

Arthur

James. You were sorely missed at the last club meeting.

James

Was I?

Arthur

We were beginning to wonder which is your hobby, writing or cricket.

James

You don't say.

Mary

You wanted to speak with Mr Barrie didn't you?

Mrs Snow

Well yes, but we shouldn't interrupt them, should we?

Mary

I don't see why not.

Arthur

If you ask me, the problem lies in our batting order.

James

You're absolutely right.

Mary

James.

James

Hello, darling.

Mary

You remember Mr & Mrs Snow, don't you?

James

Mrs Snow.

Mrs Snow

Mr Barrie.

James

Mr Snow.

Mary

So, the Snows have been waiting to meet with you all evening.

Mrs Snow

Oh, yes.

James

Is that right?

Mrs Snow

Your play this evening. . .it was remarkable, wasn't it?

James

Was it? Thank you, that's very kind of you. I'm glad you liked it.

Mr Snow

How did you feel it went?

James

I think I can do better.

Mr Snow

Really?

James

Mary, hello.

Mary

Yes, James?

James

I'm headed off to the park if you'd like to join me. It's a beautiful morning.

Mary

You'll be working, won't you?

James

Perhaps, yes.

Mary

I'll let you to your work then.

Emma

Morning, Mr Barrie.

James

Morning, Emma.

Emma

Have a good day, sir.

James

And you. That's it, go on boy. That's right. Good boy. Grab it.

Sylvia

Who do you belong to?

Michael

Excuse me, sir, you're standing on my sleeve.

James

Am I? So sorry. I might point out you're lying under my bench.

Michael

I have to I'm afraid. I've been put in the dungeon by the evil Prince George. I'm sorry if it bothers you.

James

Well if you're trapped in the dungeon there isn't much to be done, now is there? Perhaps I could slide a key to you through the bars?

Michael

I wouldn't risk it, sir. The evil Prince George has tortured many men.

George

I'm sorry, is he bothering you, sir? My brother can be an amazingly irritating sort of person.

James

Ah ha, Prince George I gather? I understand you are the horrible tyrant who imprisoned this unfortunate wretch.

George

Not horrible really, but a firm ruler yes, kind and tolerant.

James

And what precisely has, er. . . What did you say your name was?

Michael

Michael.

James

What precisely is Michael's crime?

George

He's my younger brother.

James

Ah! Fair enough. Sorry, lad, cannot free you.

Michael

That's all right.

Jack

Do you mind us playing with your dog?

James

No, go on.

George

This is Jack, second in line to the throne, and that one's Michael, he's only five.

Michael

And I'm in prison for it.

Sylvia

I'm so sorry. Are my boys bothering you?

Michael

We're not bothering him, Mum.

James

No.

Sylvia

Michael, darling, come out from under there.

Michael

I can't, I'm in prison.

Sylvia

Oh, I see.

James

J M Barrie, pleased to meet you.

Sylvia

J M Barrie the author? What a pleasure, Sylvia Llewellyn-Davies.

Jack

Are you a writer?

James

I am.

Sylvia

He's a playwright, Jack, quite a famous one at that. I apologise, I imagine you are writing.

James

No, not at all.

Sylvia

Where's Peter?

George

What have you written, Mr Barrie?

James

Well, currently, I make my living entertaining Princes and their courts with my trained bear, Porthos. If you command your brother Peter to join us, I am willing, Prince George, to give you just such a performance in exchange for the freedom of this prisoner of course.

George

Very well.

James

Very well. Now, I want you to pay particular attention to the teeth. Some unscrupulous trainers will show you a bear whose teeth have all been pulled, while other cowards will force the brute into a muzzle. Only a true master would attempt these tricks without either measure of safety.

Peter

What did you bring me over here for?

Sylvia

Peter.

Peter

Because this is absurd, it's just a dog.

Sylvia

Come on, darling.

James

Just a dog?! Porthos, don't listen to him. Porthos dreams of being a bear, and you want to dash those dreams by saying 'he's just a dog'. Tut tut. What a horrible candle-snuffing word. That's like saying 'he can't climb that mountain, he's just a man.' Or 'that's not a diamond, it's just a rock.' Just!

Peter

Fine then, turn him into a bear, if you can.

Sylvia

Peter, where are your manners.

James

With those eyes, my bonnie lad, I'm afraid you'd never see it. However, with just a wee bit of imagination - I can turn around right now, and see, the Great Bear, Porthos. Dance with me.

Sylvia

Thank you, I don't think I've ever seen a performance quite. . . quite like it.

James

We're here every day, and the bear is always more than happy to perform.

Sylvia

Perhaps we will see you tomorrow then.

James

Perhaps.

Sylvia

Peter, jump up, darling, quick.

George

Bye.

Jack

Bye.

Michael

Bye.

James

Bye.

Sylvia

Peter, didn't you enjoy that?

Peter

I've seen better.

James

Well, Michael wanted the bear kept prisoner with him, and Peter insisted that Michael was hardly prisoner and Porthos simply wasn't a bear at all. I do very much hope to see them tomorrow.

Mary

What's her name?

James

Sylvia, erm, Mrs Something-Davies.

Mary

Llewllyn Davies?

James

You know her?

Mary

I know who she is of course. Why she's of DuMaurier family see. Her father was the artist, her brother's the actor. And there's something. . . tragic that happened with her husband. Oh, yes, he died, cancer of the jaw I believe.

James

That's horrible.

Mary

Yes, apparently he left her with four boys and no income to speak of. Why, if it wasn't for her mother's help. . . James, we should have them to dinner.

James

Should we?

Mary

Absolutely, I've always wanted to meet Madam DuMaurier, why, she know practically everyone there is worth knowing.

Peter

What are you writing about?

James

Oh, nothing of any great consequence.

Peter

I can't write.

James

Have you ever kept a journal? Ever tried your hand at writing a play? Well then, how do you know?

Peter

I know, that's all.

James

I see. Where's your mother today and the rest of the boys?

Peter

Home. Mother's got a bit of a chest cold. I'm sure everyone would be happy to see you though, one afternoon. I should leave you to your writing.

James

Peter. I'll see you later then. Why didn't you tell me, Charles? You knew it wasn't any good.

Charles

Why didn't you tell me, James? You knew it wasn't any good. Huh? I took an extended lease on the theatre, keeping the actors on.

James

I don't have another play.

Charles

You will, won't you?

James

We'll see.

Man

Need you to sign for the storage, Mr Frohman.

James

It was never meant to be taken seriously.

Charles

You know what happened, James. They changed it.

James

Who changed what?

Charles

The critics, they made it important. Huh. What's it called? What's it called?

James

Play.

Charles

Play.

Boys

Bang, bang, bang, etc

Jack

Return the boy to us you nasty Indian.

James

Our people teach boy Indian ways, make him great warrior, our chief 'Running Nose' never let him go.

Boys

Bang, bang, bang, etc

James

Me wounded, Peter. Time's short. You go, spread wings and soar like eagle above enemy. Fly back to our chief, tell him of my brave defeat.

Peter

That's crazy, Indian's can't fly.

James

'Course they can, go on, go on, go on.

Jack

Listen to us boy, this Indian kidnapped you.

James

Not true! Me kidnap no-one. You 'lost boy'. I teach you ways of the brave. I take you as my own son.

Peter

You are not my father.

Boys

Bang, bang, bang, etc

Jack

I've got him.

Peter

Let me go!

George

Stop it you two.

Jack

Ooh, we are awful, aren't we?

Peter

I'm warning you.

Jack

Ooh, I'm scared. Wants to have a bit of fun for a change.

George

Stop it you two.

Sylvia

Jack! Peter.

James

I'm terribly sorry.

Sylvia

Oh, it wasn't your fault.

James

Afraid it might have been.

Sylvia

To be honest, I'm just happy you got him to join in the game.

James

Oh yes, I was a tremendous success.

Sylvia

Mr Barrie, it's more than I've been able to achieve. Peter's a different boy since his father died. I don't think he's even had a good cry about it.

James

Well, grief affects us all in different ways, doesn't it?

Sylvia

Yes it does.

James

Oh, by the way, my wife would like to invite you and the boys over to dinner, erm, your mother as well.

Sylvia

Oh, how kind, that would be lovely.

Mary

Well, don't you all look lovely in your little suits? And Mrs DuMaurier, what a shame it is that we've not met until this evening.

Mrs Du Maurier

How kind of you to say so.

Mary

Not at all. I can't tell you how many times I've been to a charity, or a. . . social event, and seen your name listed among the Stagehands. It's the very thing I would love to do myself, if I could just find the time.

Mrs Du Maurier

My problem is in finding the time to do everything else. At the moment I'm running two households. Sylvia believes she can get by without a housekeeper.

Sylvia

Mother!

Mrs Du Maurier

My house is quite large enough for us all, but the idea of living with me seems. . .

Sylvia

Not now please mother.

George

We help her keep the house in order.

Mrs Du Maurier

Don't interrupt, George. Where did you get your manners?

George

Sorry, Grandmother.

Sylvia

Well. . .

Mrs Du Maurier

Mr Barrie, I understand you've become playmates with my grandchildren.

James

Oh, they indulge me really.

Sylvia

On the contrary. The other day we took to an exploration of Darkest Africa in our garden. Till Mr Barrie was taken ill by the bite of a. . . What was it?

James

Tsetse fly. Quite horrible.

Jack

Yes, and he swelled to the size of a hippopotamus.

Michael

Fingers like sausages!

George

And we had to float on him down the river, like he was a. . . a great bloated raft.

Jack

But the fishing was good, wasn't it?

Mary

James. Please.

James

Sorry. Bye.

Mrs Du Maurier

Thank you so much.

Mary

Bye.

Mrs Du Maurier

Pleasant.

Mary

A lovely evening.

George

Bye.

James

Thank you. Night.

Mary

Night.

George

Night.

Mary

Well, that was a disaster.

Mrs Du Maurier

Painful, utterly painful to see.

Sylvia

Don't know what you mean, I had a lovely time.

Mary

Oh, James, please, "My problem is in finding the time to do everything else." I've never felt so judged in my life.

James

Judged? What do you mean?

Mrs Du Maurier

A grown man, for heavens sake, playing all day long with children?

Mary

In any case, I hardly think they'll be the social contact we'd hoped for.

James

I hadn't really thought of them that way, just enjoy their company.

Sylvia

He's been a good friend to us, mother.

Mrs Du Maurier

Yes, but what does that mean?

Mary

Surely you don't intend to keep spending your afternoons with those children, do you?

James

So today, ladies and gentlemen, using only the wind and his own physical strength, George Llewellyn Davies will test the very limits of the atmosphere using his tethered craft. Go on, boy.

Sylvia

Go on, George.

Jack

You're gonna break it, George.

Michael

George, stop.

George

Just needs a bit more speed.

Michael

I want to do it.

James

Hold off a bit, George. I think it's in need of a tail.

Sylvia

Oh, wait. Here, James, this will do.

James

That's a good idea.

George

No, it's not heavy enough.

Michael

I want to do it.

Jack

Are you coming, Peter?

James

Porthos!

Sylvia

It'll work this time.

James

Porthos. Give us your bell, that's good. Here. Michael?

Michael

Yeah?

James

Now, would you like to give it a go?

Michael

Yes please.

Jack

Oh, he can't run fast enough.

James

'Course he can.

Sylvia

Let him try, Jack.

James

George, you hold the kite.

Sylvia

George, come on boys lets go back up to the top. Michael. Come on, Peter. Right, George, hold it up. Darling, you've got to run now, ready? Ready? Run. Run, Michael.

Jack

Run. Oh, I told you this wasn't going to work.

Peter

I don't think he's fast enough.

James

It's not going to work if no-one believes in him.

Sylvia

Now give him a chance.

James

Michael, go back to your starting position.

Sylvia

Come on, darling, we'll try again.

James

George, you take the kite.

George

If it'll help.

James

Now, this time, I don't want a flea's breath of doubt. We must get that kite in the air.

Sylvia

Right, look I think I feel a bit more breeze.

James

Ready, Michael? Go on, go on.

Jack

You can do it, Michael.

Sylvia

You've got to run, Michael, run, run.

James

That's it!

Boys

Yeah.

Jack

You did it. Keep running.

Peter

What are you writing about now?

James

Oh, just making notes. I'm never really certain what they're about till I've read over later.

Peter

Something about the kite?

James

Now why do you ask that?

Peter

I don't know. If I were a writer, I think I could tell a whole story about flying the kite today.

James

Perhaps you should then, that's a fantastic idea. Why not give it a try?

Jack

I hope you haven't been talking about anything too serious with this one.

Peter

No, talking a bit of silliness really.

Michael

Can we have him for supper?

Sylvia

Have him to stay for supper, Michael, we're not cannibals. You are welcome, you know.

Mrs Du Maurier

Sylvia, Mr Barrie, where have you been?

Sylvia

Erm, flying a kite, mother, and having a wonderful time. I'm sorry, I didn't know you were coming this evening.

Mrs Du Maurier

No? Well apparently you forgot then. I've brought some supper along for us all.

Sylvia

You didn't need to do that.

Mrs Du Maurier

Well, there's no food in the house, is there? Really, you don't need to wait till the cupboard is bare!

Sylvia

Please, Mother. Come on, darling.

Mrs Du Maurier

Wipe feet. There's been enough tracking round here. George, I thought you said you were going to help your mother take care of the house? Coat, Michael, please. Yes. And. Coat hanger. Very good.

Michael

Will we see you tomorrow?

Mrs Du Maurier

No, you're going to be helping round the house tomorrow.

Sylvia

Mother, there is absolutely no need for this.

Mrs Du Maurier

You can't do everything yourself. Look at you, you're horribly flush. Wearing yourself out.

Sylvia

Thank you for a lovely day, James. Excuse me, mother.

Mrs Du Maurier

So, from tomorrow we're going to have some discipline around here. And not one of you will escape.

Sarah

Good evening, Mr Barrie.

James

Good evening, Sarah.

Emma

Good evening, Mr Barrie.

James

Evening, Emma.

Mary

You missed supper.

James

Perhaps I'll have something later, I've a bit of writing I want to do.

Mary

Are you sure? It was a lovely meal. Duck. Sarah let Emma cook this evening.

James

Is that right? Listen, what would you think of loaning Emma out to the Davies for the occasional evening? They don't actually have a cook.

Mary

I take it Mrs Davies enjoyed the meal she had here?

James

I imagine she could use an extra hand now and again, that's all.

Mary

Huh? That's very charitable of you. Perhaps we can send over some of the silver as well. And, what about linen? I wouldn't be surprised if some of hers was looking a bit shabby.

James

Please Mary, stop.

Mary

Maybe she can send over some of the things we've run short on. . . My husband for example. We rarely see him in this house.

James

That hasn't seemed to bother you for some time now. Lords and ladies, King Michael, the benevolent. Protector of the Realm.

Peter

That sceptre's made of wood.

James

Yes, well, we dream on a budget here, don't we?

Peter

No, I mean, everyone thinks it's made of gold, but it's just an old hunk of wood.

James

The means to an end, Peter. What we've done is taken an old hunk of wood, and transformed it for all the world to see, into the most magnificent gold. Here you go.

Peter

What's this?

James

All great writers, begin with a good leather binding, and a respectable title. Open it.

Peter

The Boy Castaways, being a record of the terrible adventures of the brothers Davies, faithfully set forth by Peter Llewellyn Davies.

James

Kipling would swallow is own ear for a title like that.

Michael

Stab him George, you can do it.

Peter

I still have no idea what to write.

James

Write about anything. Write about your family. Write about the talking whale.

Peter

What whale?

James

The one that's trapped in your imagination and desperate to get out. Come sit down. I have actually begun writing about the adventures of the Davies brothers myself.

Peter

A play?

James

A play indeed. Yes. And I would be extremely honoured if you would allow me the use of your name for one of the characters.

Peter

I don't know what to say.

James

Say yes. Good man.

Peter

I won't go to bed. I won't. I won't.

Sylvia

You should have been in bed half an hour ago young man. I'm afraid I've grown hopelessly lax in my discipline.

James

Nonsense, young boys should never be sent to bed, they always wake up a day older. And then before you know it, they're grown.

Sylvia

Their father would have been horrified, 'course he would never have allowed a dog in the house either. He'd've tied him up in the yard. Right, last one in bed's a hairy toad. You mean a lot to my boys, you know. Especially Peter.

James

It seems to me that Peter is trying to grow up too fast. I imagine he thinks that grown-ups don't hurt as deeply as children do when they. . . when they lose someone. I lost my elder brother David when I was just Peter's age. And it nearly destroyed my mother.

Sylvia

James, I'm so sorry. Your poor mother. I can't imagine losing a child.

James

Aye. She didn't get out of bed for months, she wouldn't eat. I tried everything to make her happy, but. . . she only wanted David. So, one day, I dressed myself in David's clothing, and went to her.

Sylvia

You must have frightened her to death.

James

I think it was the first time she ever, actually. . . looked at me. And that was the end of the boy James. I used to say to myself, he'd gone to Neverland.

Sylvia

Where?

James

Neverland. It's a wonderful place. I've not spoken about this before to anyone. Ever.

Sylvia

What's it like, Neverland?

James

One day I'll take you there.

Charles

Wait a minute, James, he's a fairy?

James

Er, no. He's the irrepressible spirit of youth. Tinkerbell's the fairy.

Charles

Tinkerbell's a woman?

James

She's not a woman, she's a fairy. He is a boy who stays young forever.

Charles

James, how does anyone stay young for ever? It doesn't work.

James

He just believes, Charles, he imagines life the way he wants it to be. And he believes in it long enough and hard enough that it all appears before him. Do you see?

Charles

James, I'm your friend. You're coming off a flop. You have a man who is a fairy. . .

James

No, boy.

Charles

Yes, okay. And this girl calls herself Tinker. And you have a pirate ship on stage, surrounded by tons and tons of water. That's a lot of water.

James

It's a lot of water.

Charles

Yes, and that's a lot of money.

James

It is, but we can, we can fake the water.

Charles

Oh well, if we can fake the water then I'm sure your play will be a hit. You know what I think I'll do? I think I'll imagine life the way I want it to be. . .

James

Long enough and hard enough.

Charles

Yes, and then the money for the play will appear magically before me.

James

That's right, that's it.

Charles

How does the clock wind up inside the crocodile?

James

He swallows it.

Charles

Ah, of course he does.

Man

How was he?

Mary

Well done.

Woman

Thank you.

James

Finally get the courage to invite the boys to a game and we have to suffer this grave humiliation. It's perfect actually.

Arthur

You spend a good deal of time with them don't you?

James

Every moment I can spare in fact.

Arthur

I'm glad for you. Mrs Davies'll be having a good time of it as well. Should be aware though, James, what some people have been saying. Now, mind you, I wouldn't bring it up if I thought it would pass.

James

Not surprised. What do they say?

Arthur

Very well, that you spend much more time with Mrs Davies than you do with your own wife. She is a widow. And, erm.

James

And a friend. That's it, nothing more.

Arthur

There have also been questions about, how you spend your time with those boys, and why.

James

That's outrageous. How could anyone think something so evil, they're children. They're innocent children. You find a glimmer of happiness in this world, there's always someone who wants to destroy it. No. Thank you, Arthur, but I don't think many will give credence to such nonsense.

Arthur

Then why is no-one sitting with them? Once you get a bit of notoriety James, people watch you, and they will look for ways to drag you down.

Sylvia

Are you sure your wife doesn't object to us taking over your cottage for the summer? James.

James

She doesn't go there any more.

Sylvia

Really? It's such a relief to get away. You'll come and visit I hope.

James

'Course. Are we in?

Sylvia

Everyone in?

Jack

Can I drive Uncle Jim?

James

Er. . . No. Out of the way or I'll make haggis of you.

Michael

Get the sheep out the way.

Jack

Are we there yet?

James

Almost. Almost there.

Jack

I can see the cottage! Shall we explore, Michael?

Sylvia

If you're going outside don't tear your clothes, please.

James

Would you like to see the rest of it?

Sylvia

Yes.

James

Okay. Hello. Thought you could escape from Captain Swarthy, eh? Off to the ship with you then. Off to the ship son. So now you can either choose to become a pirate with the rest of us. . . Or, we'll toss you to the shark.

Michael

How marvellous.

James

Or maybe the crocodiles, eh?

Sylvia

No-one's escaped Captain.

James

Excellent work, matey. Now then, now is your only chance to speak. Who amongst you is ready to tie your hopes and dreams to the sea?

Michael

I am.

James

Not finished yet. And to enter into the most dangerous chapter in your young and soon to be wasted lives? What did you say? What are you doing, son? Are you giggling? On my ship? Giggling? What did you say?

George

I said I'm ready Captain.

James

What's your name boy?

George

I'm Curly, the oldest and wisest of the crew.

James

Cut him loose matey. Welcome aboard Curly. Your job will be to mop the deck. And who be you, young squire?

Jack

My name be Nibbs the Cut-Throat, feared by men and greatly desired by the ladies.

Sylvia

Jack!

James

Welcome aboard Nibbs, you shall polish all the wood surfaces.

Sylvia

Grab a hold of that rigging.

James

And you lad?

Peter

I'm Peter.

James

That's not a pirate name. What about Dastardly Jim, eh?

Peter

No, just Peter. I like my name.

James

Very well. In punishment for lack of an interesting pirate name, Peter shall walk the plank. Cut 'im loose.

Mr Reilly

Mr Barrie sir. There's been a mistake here sir. It says here I'm to play the nanny. Don't imagine I quite fit that part, eh?

James

You're not actually a nanny, you're a dog.

Mr Reilly

What?

James

A Newfoundland, we'll put you in a great big fluffy dog suit.

Mr Reilly

Oh right.

Organiser

Actually, we don't have a Tinkerbell cast do we? He could play Tinkerbell.

James

Oh heavens, no. Tinkerbell's a light that moves around the stage. Just a wee light that, that, that moves around the stage.

Stagehand

Bit worried about this.

Charles

Let's see, got John Darling, Michael Darling, Tiger-Lily, Smee, Skylines, it's a play for puppets. Tools, Nibbs, Curley. Oh these names are absurd when you see them all together. Captain Hook, Sergeant. . . Oh, hello James. You're out of your mind.

Mary

How were rehearsals?

James

Fine, great, they're going, quite well.

Mary

Good.

James

Yes, thank you.

Sylvia

Hello.

James

Hello.

Sylvia

How was your journey?

James

'Twas quite long, I'm exhausted.

Sylvia

Let's get you some tea.

James

That'd be nice, thanks.

Michael

Can you come to the play-house.

Sylvia

In a moment Michael, he's just arrived.

Michael

But I said I'd get him. They always send Peter to do things. I said I'll do it. It will spoil the surprise.

Sylvia

What surprise darling?

Michael

It's a great surprise. We've taken most of the day preparing for it, everybody's waiting for you.

James

Then we mustn't keep them waiting.

Michael

Please don't tell them that I told you the surprise, I said I wouldn't.

Sylvia

Oh well, you didn't really tell us anything about it, did you?

Michael

Yes I did, it's a play.

James

It's a play!

Peter

The Lamentable Tale of Lady Ursula, a play in one act, by Peter Llewellyn Davies. This is just a bit of silliness really.

James

I should hope so. Go on.

Peter

I just wanted to take a stab at writing, you know, well, the others do a good job of it anyway.

Sylvia

Well, let's see it then.

Peter

The Lamentable Tale of Lady Ursula. One morning, just after sunrise, Lady Ursula, the most beautiful daughter of Lord and Lady DuBonne, made her way up the steps of the great cathedral to pray to her blessed saint. Suddenly, as she reached the cathedral doors, the gargoyle that guarded the sacred structure, came to life and swooped down upon her. The people of the village all ran to safety, but Lady Ursula slipped on the cathedral steps and the gargoyle descended upon her, wrapping her in its huge wings and taking her high up into the spires of the cathedral.

Sylvia

Go on Peter.

Peter

Not long after this sorrowful event, a young knight names J M Barnaby came into the city.

James

Sylvia, come on. Do you want some water?

Sylvia

No James.

James

Back to the house, go on. She won't discuss it with me at all. She claims it was nothing. I tell you doctor, she couldn't breathe.

Doctor

Well, I can't very well treat a patient who won't admit there's anything wrong.

James

You'll have to make her understand that something is.

Doctor

I'll try and do my best.

James

Okay, just here. Put your hand flat like that, okay? And. Ow. And then, like that.

Sylvia

Come in.

James

The good doctor didn't feel up to the challenge on this one. He thinks you need to go to hospital for further tests.

Sylvia

Nonsense, when would I have the time for that? Besides, this family's had enough of hospitals.

James

Perhaps they can help you.

Sylvia

I know what they can do for me. I saw what they did for my husband. No James, no interest in hospitals. Though I'm keenly interested in having some supper.

Peter

What did you and mother decide to tell us this time? It's only a chest cold?!

James

We hadn't decided anything.

Peter

Stop lying to me. I'm sick of grown-ups lying to me.

James

I'm not lying to you. I don't know what's wrong.

Peter

Father might take us fishing. That's what she said, in just a few weeks, and he dies the next morning.

James

That wasn't a lie Peter. That was your mother's hope.

Peter

He barely moved for a week, but I started planning our fishing trip.

James

I will never lie to you. I promise you that,

Peter

No, all you'll do is teach me to make up stupid stories and pretend that things aren't happening, until. . . I won't, I'm not blind. I won't be made a fool.

Sylvia

What's this? Peter? Your play. Darling, I wanted to see the rest of it. Magic's gone out of it a bit now, hasn't it? All because of a silly chest cold.

Mary

James. Well you remember Gilbert Cannan don't you?

James

Good evening.

Mary

Mr Cannan has been working on the committee to fight government censorship.

Gilbert

I know how involved you've been as well.

Mary

He wanted to speak to you. I did think you'd be home so much sooner.

James

It's been a long evening Mary.

Mary

Yes, well if I'd realised how late it was, of course.

Gilbert

I should perhaps talk to you at another time, not so late.

James

That'll be fine.

Gilbert

We'll talk then, eh. Thank you for your patience Mrs Barrie, Mr Barrie. Good night.

Mary

Well aren't you going to speak?

James

What would you like me to say? Curious how late Mr Cannan stayed I suppose. And let's see, what comes next? No later than you were out James. And how is Mrs Davies this evening? Oh yes, I would have a great answer to that one, wouldn't I?

Mary

How dare you! This isn't one of your plays.

James

I know that Mary. It's quite serious. But I'm not ready for this conversation, whatever it may be. Perhaps we can talk in the morning, yes? Good night then.

Smee

Er, Mr Barrie, don't you agree this is a little bit tight?

James

No, no, in fact I think it's quite. . . baggy.

Smee

Baggy?

James

Quite frumpy. I'd bring it right in just here.

Smee

That's very tight.

James

Hm, right there. And put maybe a plank of wood there to straighten him up.

Tailor

Oh yeah, yes Mr Barrie.

Smee

Plank of wood?

James

Some wood there, there in the shoulders. Otherwise it's marvellous.

Tailor

Right sir.

Sylvia

You'll be sick tomorrow.

George

I'll be sick tonight.

Sylvia

James, we're just having some tea. You remember my mother of course.

James

Yes, of course, how do you do?

Sylvia

May I take your hat?

Mrs Du Maurier

Don't laugh boys.

Sylvia

Boys, please don't run in the house, you'll break something, come away from that door, come on, come on, come on, come on.

Mrs Du Maurier

I'd like a word with you Mr Barrie before you go. We'll only be a few minutes.

Sylvia

Boys, why don't you go and play in the garden, go on.

Michael

Is he in trouble?

Peter

Sshh!

Michael

Because I've been alone with Grandmother and I know what it's like.

Sylvia

Shall we retire into the study?

Mrs Du Maurier

Why don't you join them dear?

Sylvia

Very well.

James

I do apologise for interrupting.

Mrs Du Maurier

Would you close the door please.

James

Certainly.

Mrs Du Maurier

Sylvia has told me you've offered her the services of your household staff.

James

Er, well, not exactly.

Mrs Du Maurier

That won't be necessary.

James

I'll leave that to Sylvie of course.

Mrs Du Maurier

You'll leave that to me Mr Barrie. You see I'm moving in here from now on.

James

You're moving in?

Mrs Du Maurier

I'm going where I'm most needed. And I can certainly see to it that this house is managed without resorting to your charity.

James

It isn't charity Mrs DuMaurier. I was only trying to help as a friend.

Mrs Du Maurier

Have you no idea how much your friendship has already cost my daughter? Or are you really that selfish?

James

I beg your pardon.

Mrs Du Maurier

Don't you see, what a visit to the summer cottage of a married man does for a widows future prospects? Sylvia needs to find someone, the boys need a father. And you are destroying any hope this family has of pulling itself together again.

James

I've only wanted good things for this family Mrs DuMaurier.

Mrs Du Maurier

I'll look after them. You have your own family to concern yourself with.

James

What are you suggesting?

Mrs Du Maurier

I'm suggesting you protect what you have Mr Barrie. That is precisely what I am doing.

Mary

I was so certain what I would find in this. Some little confession would leak out onto the page.

James

I don't write love notes in my journal.

Mary

No, still you knew who I meant didn't you? That's some comfort actually. Means I know you just a little after all.

James

You needn't steal my journal to get to know me Mary.

Mrs Du Maurier

No, I suppose I could just go see the plays. I was hopelessly naïve when I married you. I imagined that brilliant people disappeared to some secret place where good ideas floated around like leaves in Autumn, and I, hoped at least, once, you would take me there with you.

James

There is no such place.

Mary

Yes there is. Neverland. It's the best you've written James. And I'm sure that Davies will adore the world you've created for them. I only wish I were part of it.

James

I've wanted you to be. I've tried. Mary, I always imagined us going off on great adventures once we were together. But we moved into this house and you started, I don't know, re-arranging the furniture.

Mary

What was I supposed to do James? You were always gone.

James

I was right here.

Mary

Sitting in your parlour staring off into other worlds as though I didn't exist.

James

Look, just give me a bit more time to finish up the play.

Mary

To spend with your mews. No I'm tired of waiting James, I'm tired of looking like a fool.

James

Well I can't very well give up the play.

Mary

'Course not. Just, come home to me at the end of the day. Rehearse and be home for dinner. No more trips to the country, no more long afternoons in the park. If you can't give us that much of a chance. . . then we must end this. And I will.

Captain Hook

Pitiful display.

James

Nana, Nana. Erm, first you get the pyjamas, then you make the bed.

Nana

With my paws?

James

You make the bed with your paws, the pyjamas you get with your teeth. Because, in fact, being a dog, you haven't any proper digits, have you?

Nana

Well I don't have any teeth either. I mean, I can't see, I can't breathe. All I've got is this rubbery snout.

James

Can we get him some teeth?

Charles

He can have mine.

James

We'll get you teeth. Let's have a wee break, shall we?

Nana

Okay.

Smee

I though you were wonderful.

Captain Hook

You were marvellous.

Smee

I think you're better on four legs that you are on two.

Captain Hook

Absolutely.

Nana

Oh give it a rest.

Smee

I do!

James

Just say it Charles, go on.

Charles

Well, you picture it James, opening night, doctors, lawyers, business men and their wives all dressed to the nines, they paid good money. They're expecting theatre, what we call theatre. The curtain opens and it's crocodiles and fairies and pirates and Indians, I don't even know what it is.

James

But you did know Charles, you're an absolute genius Charles, that's it.

Charles

Oh, don't patronise me James, you know how much money I've put into this show that I haven't even found yet?

James

Listen, listen, opening night, I want 25 seats set aside.

Charles

Set aside?

James

25 seats.

Charles

Twenty-five?

James

Right, scattered throughout the theatre. Two here, two there, three up there.

Charles

Are they paid for?

James

They're filled.

Charles

NO, no, no, no.

James

The seats are filled Charles.

Charles

Madness.

George

Uncle Jim?

James

Hello boys.

George

Can I speak to you for a minute please?

James

Certainly. 25 seats Charles.

Charles

James.

James

You're great, it'll be fantastic.

Charles

25 scattered seats, who's paying for them?

James

Throughout the theatre.

Charles

Er, yeah, who's paying for these 25 scattered. . . ?

James

They're filled up seats Charles.

Stagehand

Look

Jack

This is great, I'm flying.

Stagehand

We don't need to use much pull at all see, as long as we've got the balance there.

George

Mother asked me to take the boys out for the afternoon. She said, she only wanted a bit of quiet, but she was trembling so badly she couldn't even finish her tea. I'm not a fool Uncle James, I deserve to know the truth.

James

I don't know the truth, she won't talk about it.

George

But you think it's serious?

James

I could be. The doctor felt she should go and have some tests.

George

Then you'll have to convince her to go then.

James

I've tried, she won't listen to me. And lately, to be quite honest it seems that all my beast intentions for your family have come to nothing but harm. Apparently I've made quite a mess of things.

George

It's Grandmother, isn't it? She's run you off, hasn't she?

James

Oh, she's absolutely tried with great effort and. . . and perhaps with good reason.

George

It isn't you Uncle Jim. She just. . . she just doesn't want to see mother hurt anymore.

James

Look at that. How magnificent. They boy's gone. Somewhere during the last 30 seconds you've become grown up. Right then. I think you should be the one to talk to her George.

George

But I won't know what to say.

James

You'll do fine. You'll do just fine.

Smee

Mr Barrie sir, sorry to interrupt, it's Nana, he expired backstage.

James

What's happened?

Smee

I think his costume was too tight.

James

It's not possible, too ti. . . George give me a minute, I'll be back.

Stagehand

Put that one tight, and here, last one. Good.

George

Whoa.

Jack

Can I have a go?

Stagehand

Yeah, you can have a little go. Give that a tug. Go on.

Michael

Can I have a go?

Stagehand

In a minute.

Michael

Can I have a go Jack?

Jack

I have to concentrate.

Stagehand

Stop it now boys.

Jack

No Michael, Michael.

Stagehand

Stop it about boys.

Jack

No don't do that.

George

Ow.

Voice

What's happened?

Stagehand

Oh no, oh no, no, sorry, I'm so sorry.

Jack

George?

Doctor

Mr Barrie, Mrs Davies would like a word with you. No, just Mr Barrie.

Sylvia

Did you encourage this?

James

Encourage what?

Sylvia

James please. You know perfectly well what. George won't allow them to set his arm unless I submit to an examination.

James

I see, well I suppose you'll have to then, 'cos he's quite a stubborn young man when he sets his mind to it.

Sylvia

This is absurd. They won't tell me anything different.

James

Different? So you've already spoken to a doctor then.

Sylvia

That is not your concern. My understanding is that my condition may be quite serious. However, my wish is that life should go on as normal. So, I'll have the examination, and I'll take whatever medication they advise, but I don't want to know what they're for. And I don't want you enquiring into it any further.

James

Wouldn't dream of it. Mary, Mary?

Sylvia

Peter will you help George to fold a pocket handkerchief please, they're in the linen cupboard, darling.

Peter

Yes mother.

Sylvia

Jack, how do you manage to always come untucked? Would you check your shirt-tails in the intermission please?

Jack

Yes mother.

Mrs Du Maurier

You're not planning on attending any after theatre events are you?

Sylvia

Only for a short time if we do. The tickets!

Mrs Du Maurier

With the children?

Sylvia

George! Um, possibly. Would you see if George has the tickets please?

Jack

All right.

Sylvia

I'll just check my dressing table.

Mrs Du Maurier

Sylvia, those events are entirely. . .

Michael

Mum!

Sylvia

Mother, please see if George has the tickets. Michael, where are your socks? Erm, wait here, don't move.

Mrs Du Maurier

Take her feet George. We'll need some more blankets. Take Michael with you, would you?

Michael

She looks much worse than when we were at the cottage.

George

Sshh Michael.

Charles

Those 25 seats, has anyone shown up?

Ticket Seller

No sir, not yet.

Charles

Precisely. Have there been many people asking for seats?

Ticket Seller

Yes sir.

James

Charles.

Charles

I suggest you start selling them.

James

Charles.

Charles

Yes James?

James

Seen any of the Davies family yet this evening?

Charles

The 25 seats, are they filled?

James

It's taken care of.

Charles

Yes, yes. Who did you invite? Because obviously whoever you invited decided not to come.

James

The seats will be filled, I promise.

Charles

Yes, you've been promising me a. . .

Man

Charles.

Charles

Hello, Mr Stand.

James

Have you seen the Davies family this evening?

Usher

No sir.

Mrs Du Maurier

Jack has gone to get Dr Brighton.

Sylvia

Oh no mother, I don't need a doctor.

Mrs Du Maurier

Yes you do dear. I think I'll get some camomile to help you relax. Peter will be here if you need anything.

Sylvia

Peter. Peter.

Peter

Can I do anything mother?

Sylvia

NO darling. You must go to the play.

Peter

I can't do that.

Sylvia

Yes you can. I need you to. I need you to come back tonight and tell me every bit of it. Please.

Peter

It's only a play mother. It doesn't matter. What do you want?

Sylvia

Take it out. Open it. I've never been so proud of you.

Usher

Last call please ladies and gentlemen. Last call for the play.

Charles

Yes, yes, yes. We have time to sell those 25 seats. Play's starting.

James

Charles.

Charles

What?

James

They're here.

Charles

Who's here?

James

You'll forgive them being a bit late. Short legs, it's a long walk from the orphanage.

Charles

I'm not clear what they're doing here.

James

They've come to see the play. That's the 25 seats.

Charles

25 seats given to orphans? Right, now my nightmare is complete.

James

You can start your play now.

Charles

Your play!

Peter

Thank you.

Man

Looks like we got one of the better dressed ones.

Smee

I just want you to know, I think you're a wonderful dog.

Nana

Thanks. Woof. Woof.

Actress

I won't go to bed, I won't. I won't.

Nana

Woof.

Actress

Nana it isn't six o'clock yet. Two minutes more? Please. One minute more? Nana I will not be barked. I tell you, I will not. . . be. . . barked.

Nana

Woof.

Actress

Eeeeh!

Mrs Darling

Who are you? No-one there, yet I feel sure I saw a face. My children!

James

How is she?

Mrs Du Maurier

She's resting.

James

May I see her?

Mrs Du Maurier

No Mr Barrie. I don't think we need to include you in everything that goes on in this household.

George

But she'd want to see him.

Mrs Du Maurier

Be quiet George. And since, as I've discovered, you've seen fit to conceal certain facts about my daughter's condition from me. I feel no remorse at excluding you from my home.

George

But you can't s. . .

Mrs Du Maurier

Go upstairs George now.

George

Stop ordering me about. This isn't your home! It's our home. Just 'cos mother's needed your help recently, doesn't give you the right to rule over her existence. She's not a child anymore, and neither am I. If she wants to see Uncle Jim, she can see Uncle Jim. There's nothing you can do about it. Mother?

Sylvia

Yes darling. James. No, your play! Look at all this. I'd have come tonight, it's just. . .

George

Mother you need to rest.

Sylvia

So many things to do here. Let's see, this needs mending. Four boys, no end of patches. Can't seem to keep up. I haven't the time for all this. Don't look at me like that James, you make me feel so utterly exposed.

James

Boys, would you give me a moment with your mother please? Thank you. They can see it you know. You can't go on just pretending.

Sylvia

Just pretending? You brought pretending into this family James. You showed us we can change things by simply believing them to be different.

James

But not all things Sylvia, not everything.

Sylvia

But the things that matter. We've pretended for some time now that. . . you're a part of this family haven't we? You've come to mean so much to us all that. . . now, it doesn't matter if it's true. And even if it isn't true, even if that can never be. . . I need to go on pretending. . . until the end. . . with you.

Actor

How do you do it?

Peter Pan

You just think lovely, wonderful thoughts, and they lift you up in the air.

Actor

You are so nippy at it, couldn't you do it very slowly once? Yes, I've got it now Wendy.

Peter Pan

I must blow fairy dust on you first. Now try, try from the bed. Just wriggle your shoulders like this and then let go.

Actress 1

I flew.

Actor

How ripping.

Actress 2

Lovely.

Peter Pan

Now join hands.

Actor

Look at me.

Actress

I do like it.

Charles

Genius.

James

Hold still, don't move.

Sylvia

Yes, I feel a little better. Oh, it's been a bad day, that's all. Now I want you to go back to the theatre. Find Peter.

James

Of course.

Sylvia

Thank you.

James

You're sure there's nothing else I can do for you?

Sylvia

No. Well. . . I have always wanted to go to Neverland. You did promise to tell me about it you know.

James

Aye, I did.

Sylvia

It's a bit late for it tonight though, I'm afraid. Perhaps sometime soon though.

James

Most definitely.

Wendy

Do you mean we shall both be drowned?

Peter Pan

Look how the water is rising. It must be the tail of the kite we made for Michael. You remember. It tore itself out of his hands and floated away. The kite! Why shouldn't it carry you?

Wendy

Both of us.

Peter Pan

It can't lift two, Michael and Curly tried.

Wendy

I won't go without you Peter. Let us draw lots to see who is to stay behind.

Peter Pan

And you a lady. Never. Ready Wendy?

Wendy

Peter!

Peter Pan

Don't let go Wendy!

Wendy

Peter, I'm frightened!

Peter Pan

Hold on Wendy! To die will be an awfully big adventure.

James

I'm glad you came.

Mary

Well, I've never missed an opening. So I. . . assume you've heard about Gilbert and I?

James

Yes. Quite the scandal, so I'm told. How are you?

Mary

I'm all right. How are you?

James

I'm sorry.

Mary

Don't be. Without that family you could never have written anything like this. You need them. Goodbye.

Mrs Snow

Mr Barrie.

James

Mrs Snow.

Mrs Snow

Why thank you, that was quite the nicest evening I've ever spent in the theatre.

James

Oh that's very kind of you to say. Thank you. Where's Mr Snow this evening?

Mrs Snow

Oh, I'm afraid he's left us. And he would so have loved this evening. The pirates and the Indians. He was really just a boy himself, you know. To the very end.

James

Terribly sorry. How're you doing?

Mrs Snow

I'm doing well enough now, thank you. I suppose it's all the work of the ticking crocodile isn't it? Time is chasing after all of us, isn't that right?

James

That's right Mrs Snow.

Niece

Aunt Rose, your drink.

Mrs Snow

Thank you. I mustn't keep you, you've a lot of friends here.

James

It's lovely to see you.

Mrs Snow

Thank you.

James

I'm terribly sorry once again.

Niece

Was that Mr Barrie?

Mrs Snow

That was Mr Barrie.

James

Pssst. What do you think?

Peter

It's about our summer together isn't it?

James

It is.

Peter

About all of us.

James

That's right. Do you like it?

Peter

It's magical. Thank you.

James

No, thank you. Thank you, Peter.

Woman 1

This is Peter Pan, how wonderful.

Man

Really, you're Peter Pan? Why, you must be quite the little adventurer.

Woman 2

Look it's true, he has no shadow.

Peter

But I'm not Peter Pan, he is.

Doctor

And there's been no improvement in that since my last visit?

Sylvia

No. Has James been by at all today mother?

George

Dr Brighton, may I have a word?

Doctor

Excuse me please.

Sylvia

You haven't been keeping him from me have you?

Mrs Du Maurier

As a matter of fact, I actually hoped he might come, it would have proved me wrong about him. Of course, with the success of his play, the whole of London must be knocking at his door. I'm sorry dear. What is it?

Michael

It's a secret.

Jack

Quiet Michael.

Michael

I didn't say anything.

George

Mother, could you come downstairs for a moment?

Mrs Du Maurier

'Course she can't come downstairs, what are you thinking of George?

Doctor

Actually, I think a trip downstairs might do her good, Ma'am.

Mrs Du Maurier

Okay?

Sylvia

What have you been up to?

George

Just wait and see.

Michael

It's a play.

James

It's not just a play Michael, it's the play. 'Course we'll have to make do with a few compromises. Much of it will have to be imagined.

Peter

As it should be.

James

As it should be.

Peter

Michael come and sit here next to mum.

James

When you're ready.

Nana

Woof. Woof.

Actress

I won't go to bed, I won't, I won't.

Nana

Woof.

Actress

Nana, it isn't six o'clock yet, 2 minutes more, please.

Nana

Woof.

Wendy

You know fairies, Peter?

Peter Pan

Yes, but they're nearly all dead now. You see Wendy. When the first baby laughed for the first time, the laugh broke into a thousand pieces and they all went skipping about. And that was the beginning of fairies. And now when every new baby is born its first laugh becomes a fairy. So there ought to be one fairy for every boy and girl.

Wendy

Ought to be, isn't there?

Peter Pan

Oh no, children know such a lot now, soon they don't believe in fairies and every time a child says 'I don't believe in fairies', there's a fairy somewhere that falls down dead. Who is that? The Redskins were defeated? Wendy and the boys captured by the pirates? I'll rescue her. I'll rescue her. Oh that's just my medicine. Poisoned? Who could have poisoned it? Why Tink! You've drunk my medicine! I was poisoned. And you drank it to save my life? Tink. Are you dying? Her light is growing faint. If it goes out, that means she's dead. Her voice is so low I can scarcely hear what she's saying. She says she thinks she could get well again, if children believed in fairies. Do you believe in fairies? Say quick that you believe. If you believe, clap your hands. Clap louder. Thank you. Thank you.

Mrs Du Maurier

It's all right, you go.

James

That, is Neverland. So many perfect days. I really began to believe we'd go on like that for ever.

Peter

Oh stop it, she wasn't going to stay with you for ever. She had a husband, my father. She never cared for you the way she did for him.

James

I'm not trying to replace your father Peter. I could never do that.

Mrs Du Maurier

You'd best let him go. George, would you take the boys back to the house? I'll be with you in a moment. Go on dear.

James

I'm terribly sorry, I've ruined everything I've touched in this family.

Mrs Du Maurier

Stop giving yourself so much credit, Peter's grieving. It has nothing to do with you.

James

Perhaps, if I just had a bit more time with him.

Mrs Du Maurier

No Mr Barrie, that won't be good enough. If a bit more time is all you can provide, you'd better leave him alone.

James

I know you don't much care for me Mrs DuMaurier and I respect that, but, I loved your daughter very much. And I love those boys. And I think they need me right now.

Mrs Du Maurier

Is that so? And for how long after?

James

Meaning what?

Mrs Du Maurier

Sylvia has requested a co-guardianship for the boys in her will. You, Mr Barrie, and myself.

James

And what do you have to say about that?

Mrs Du Maurier

I shall respect my daughter's wishes, something I should have done more of while she was alive. But if you feel you're not ready for such a commitment, I assure you I can certainly look after the boys by myself.

James

Do you think I could abandon those boys? Sit down Peter.

Peter

Mother pasted it back together, after I ruined it. And when I saw the play, I just started writing, and I haven't been able to stop.

James

She would be very pleased to know that. Listen, I've just spoken with your Grandmother, and I'm staying, for good.

Peter

I'm sorry I was so horrible.

James

Don't worry.

Peter

It's just, I thought she'd always be here.

James

So did I. But in fact, she is. Because she's on every page of your imagination. You'll always have her there. Always.

Peter

But why did she have to die?

James

I don't know boy. When I think of your mother, I'll always remember how happy she looked, sitting there in the parlour, watching a play about her family, about her boys who never grew up. She went to Neverland. And you can visit her anytime you like. If you just go there yourself.

Peter

How?

James

By believing Peter, just believe.

Peter

I can see her.

James

Good boy.

THE END

TO INDEX SCRIPTS