Summary

When the curtain rises, the stage is divided into three sections. Only the center section has lights. It is Mrs. Stevenson’s bedroom. It contains a bed, a phone, a nightstand, pill bottles, a mantel and a clock, as well as closed doors and windows. Mrs. Stevenson is a nervous and self-centered woman, who is attempting to make a telephone call. A train is heard in the distance as Mrs. Stevenson puts down the phone, takes a pill and a sip of water, and attempts another call. This time she calls the operator. Mrs. Stevenson explains she is trying to get through to Murray Hill 4-0098. She has been trying unsuccessfully for nearly an hour. Mrs. Stevenson explains that it is her husband’s office and he is working late. The operator dials the number for her.

The phone rings and a man...