Scene Two: Foster Parlor

Question 1

[WINNIE steps into a sterile parlor.
Her MOTHER, Betsy Foster (late thirties), is in black mourning attire.]

Answer 1

Okay, Mother. You can open your eyes… now! Surprise!

Question 2

MOTHER: I don’t understand.

Answer 2

I can’t wear black to the Fair!

Question 3

MOTHER: The Fair?

Answer 3

It’s coming to town tonight. Can’t we bend the rules? Just once?

Question 4

NANA: Surprise!

Answer 4

You’re late, Nana.

Question 5

MOTHER: I’m sorry, you two, but no. It’s not yet been a year since your father’s funeral. And we can’t be seen carrying on in public, as if nothing has happened.

Answer 5

But nothing does happen, not anymore.

Question 6

NANA: Oh, Betsy -

Answer 6

I told you she would never let us have fun.

Question 7

NANA: Keep your potato peeling, Betsy. We want cotton candy.

Answer 7

Father would have taken me to the fair.

Question 8

MOTHER: I know. But things are different now, and if you won’t be a good girl for me, at least try to be a good girl for him.

Answer 8

Yes, Mother.

Question 9

MOTHER: That’s enough surprises for one morning. Winnie, why did your dress just croak?

Answer 9

Meet my new friend, “Toad.” I found him by the fence.

Question 10

MOTHER: Winnie, you know better than that! Take that filthy thing outside - where it belongs!

Answer 10

Yes, Mother.