THE WHALE HUNTER

By Monica Wallach

843-813-2974  

WGAE# R05771-00

DARK BLUE WATER FILLS THE SCREEN AS THE CREDITS ROLL -- 

As the blue liquid moves gently, we hear the low and mournful calls of whales, and the sound of a fetal heartbeat, soft and fragile, beating gently.  It feels like being inside the womb, or being in the depths of the ocean.

PACIFIC OCEAN -- DAY

An 1830's whaling ship is in the distance in the middle of the ocean.  The ship's sails are out.  Dawn is just breaking over the ocean horizon.  The sky is clear and the wind calm. 

SHIP'S DECK -- DAY

Captain Ephraim Harding emerges from his quarters.  He is tall with broad shoulders and has an air of leadership and ability about him.  He is in his early 30's.  Ephraim studies the sky and the ocean.  His orderly approaches him.

ORDERLY

Captain Harding, sir, I didn't know you'd risen early.  Shall I have the cook get your breakfast?

EPHRAIM

Yes.  And tell McNeil to join me. 

The orderly leaves.  Ephraim stops a moment, goes to the rail, and gazes out at the ocean, as though he senses something.  He takes out his eyeglass and scans the water.

Off in the distance there is a pod of blue whales -- their huge flukes breaking the surface, blow-holes spouting water.

EPHRAIM

(to the watchman in the main mast)

Whales!  Starboard!

The man begins to ring a large bell, which brings the sailors pouring forth from their sleeping quarters, pulling on clothes.  Some begin lowering the three whalers, small boats about twenty-eight feet long.  Others are grabbing harpoons and rope. 

FIRST MATE McNEIL

          Where are they Captain?

EPHRAIM

There (pointing), I make a pod of about twenty. 

MCNEIL

(climbing down a rope into a whaler)

What are they?

EPHRAIM

(climbing down into another whaler)

Look like blues.

The boats race after the whales and begin to overtake them.  The whales are panicked and full of fear.  Whale flukes and boats churn the salt-water.

EHPRAIM

     (shouting to his crew)

Steer for that one! 

     (he points to a large whale slightly behind the rest of the   pack) 

That one, there!

As the whaler gets within striking distance, Ephraim stands further up in the bow -- his harpoon raised and ready.  There is a thick line of rope attached to the end of the harpoon's shaft.  The whaler pulls so close Ephraim can almost touch the whale.  Ephraim rears back using all his force and plunges the harpoon deep into the whale's flesh.

INTERIOR/ BEDROOM IN VINEYARD HAVEN, MARTHA’S VINEYARD --

A woman lying in bed lets out a piercing wail of pain.  She is in labor.  There is a whale oil lamp in the room, its flame very low.  The room is nicely furnished in the period of the 1830’s.  Dora, a young midwife, rushes into the bedroom.  She sits on the edge of the bed.  Dora is beautiful and has a very fair complexion, which offsets her dark hair and eyes.  Dora places her hand gently on the woman’s swollen belly.

DORA

(calling to the other room from which she just came)

Wachee!  Wachee, come quickly.

An old Indian woman enters the room.  She has a wrinkled, wise face.  She moves to the other side of the bed, lifts the woman's nightgown slightly, and places a hand between her legs.  Wachee speaks soothingly to the woman.

WACHEE

No, Eliza, it’s not yet time. 

ELIZA

But Wachee, it hurts! 

WACHEE

You’re still too small for the baby to pass.

ELIZA

     (her eyes showing the pain)

It hurts so badly, and

(she turns to Dora, and squeezes her hand tightly) 

it seems as though the whole room is in a fog.

WACHEE

(very concerned at these last words)

Try not to look at the fog, Eliza.

They attend to her, and Eliza settles down somewhat.  Wachee motions and Dora follows her out of the room.

FRONT ROOM

They enter the living area and close the bedroom door.

WACHEE

Dora, this one worries me.

DORA

What is it?

WACHEE

The fog she sees is the spirit world – her soul may want to go there, rather than live through what’s to come.

DORA

Will she be all right?

WACHEE

Eliza is frail, and the baby is large.

DORA

What can we do?

WACHEE

Nothing right now, just stay with her.

DORA

I'll sit with her.  You get some rest.

(Dora returns and sits by Eliza’s bedside)

PACIFIC OCEAN/ WHALE HUNT -- DAY

The harpoon is embedded deep in the whale.  The men in Ephraim’s whaler hold on to the rope as they are drug across the ocean by the wounded whale.

INTERIOR/ BEDROOM IN VINEYARD HAVEN – AFTER MIDNIGHT

Dora sits with Eliza.  The whale oil lamp is turned low.

DORA

How are you feeling?

ELIZA

(she manages a smile)

Like this baby doesn’t want to come out.

DORA

Do you know what you want to name it yet?

ELIZA

No. I haven’t heard from Ephraim.

DORA

When did you write him?

ELIZA

Six months ago.

DORA

Letters take three months just to get to the South Pacific.

ELIZA

(nodding) I know.  

DORA

It must be hard being alone for such long periods.

ELIZA

Yes, it is.  But whale hunting is all Ephraim’s ever done.  His father and grandfather were whaling captains. 

DORA

So, it’s in the blood?

ELIZA

Yes, I suppose so. 

DORA

I guess Captain Harding will be happy if it’s a boy.

ELIZA

Yes -- and Ephraim so wants a child, boy or girl.

DORA

     (there is a pause)

Eliza . . . do you still see a fog?

ELIZA

No, that's gone away.

DORA

Good.  That's good. 

Dora soothes Eliza by wiping her brow with a wet cloth.  Dora relaxes a bit and lets out a slow breath of air.

PACIFIC OCEAN/ WHALE HUNT -- DAY

Ephraim’s face is contorted and strained as he and his crew fight with the whale. 

EPHRAIM

Heave!  Heave!

They are close to the whale’s dorsal fin.  The tail fin is thrashing the water wildly. 

EPHRAIM

That's it men.  Heave! . . . and heave!

SAILOR ONE

Watch out!

Ephraim barely dodges a blow from its tail.  They pull up to the body of the whale.  Ephraim takes hold of a lance.  The blade is a foot long and razor sharp.  He begins to stab the whale repeatedly.  Blood covers his hands and arms.  Finally, the whale lays motionless in the water.  The weary men relax and rejoice in the kill, slapping each other on the back.

SAILOR ONE

Look at how fat she is!

SAILOR TWO

What a chase!

SAILOR THREE

She’s a fighter all right!

Ephraim stands amongst his men, covered with the whale’s blood.

INTERIOR/ BEDROOM IN VINEYARD HAVEN, MARTHA’S VINEYARD – EARLY DAWN

Eliza has labored through the night and is crying in pain.  Wachee and Dora are attending her.  Eliza's eyes are completely wild.  She clenches Dora's hand as tightly as a vice grip. 

WACHEE

     (calm despite the crisis)

Eliza, the baby is breach.

I’ll have to reach in and turn it.

ELIZA

I can’t!

     (she looks to Dora)

DORA

We have to Eliza.

WACHEE

Eliza, hold on to Dora.

Wachee begins to reach into Eliza's womb.  Eliza starts screaming.  Dora keeps her pushed back onto the bed with her body.

WACHEE

(pulling back, her arm and hand covered with blood)

No.  This one won’t be turned. 

Eliza, who was straining against Dora, now collapses back into the bed.  Wachee goes to wash off in the water basin in the corner of the room.  Dora goes over to her.

DORA

(whispers so Eliza can’t hear)

What now?

WACHEE

     (whispering too)

There’s nothing we can do. 

She won’t survive the birth.

DORA

There must be something . . .

WACHEE

(shaking her head, she touches Dora gently on the arm)

Sit with her.  It won’t be long.

Dora goes to Eliza.  Wachee exits the room. 

ELIZA

Dora?

DORA

     (taking her hands)

We can't turn it.

 ELIZA

I won’t make it, will I?

DORA

(almost imperceptive)

No.

ELIZA

Dora, if the baby lives, I want you to promise me you'll care for it  -- until Ephraim gets back. 

DORA

Eliza, I . . .

ELIZA

(she squeezes her hands and beseeches her)

Please, Dora, please say you will. You’re the kindest person I’ve ever known.

DORA

I will Eliza.  I promise.

ELIZA

Thank you Dora, thank you.

     (relaxes now)

I see the fog again.  It’s all around me. 

     (looking past Dora, up and above her head)

When I stare at it, the pain goes away. 

DORA

     (stroking her hands)

Then gaze into it Eliza.  Gaze into it.

Dora continues to stroke Eliza's hands.  Slowly, Eliza's head rolls to one side and she is still. 

FRONT ROOM

Wachee goes to a table and from her bag pulls out a long, sharp knife.  Her eyes lift up to the ceiling, and her lips move, as if in a small prayer.  She goes into the bedroom.

BEDROOM

Dora is still holding Eliza's hands.  Wachee moves to the other side of the bed and begins to pull up Eliza's nightgown.

DORA

     (sees the knife)

Oh, Wachee.

WACHEE

I know it’s hard – but our work isn’t finished.

DORA

     (sadly)

I know . . . still.

WACHEE

The child may be alive.  Now, bring those sheets from the corner. 

They pack the sheets on either side of Eliza's midsection to sop the blood.  Dora uses a sheet to cover Eliza’s face and shoulders.

WACHEE

Be ready.

(she cuts into Eliza, just below the navel)

Here it comes!

The baby pushes out.  Dora takes him.  The baby starts to cry, chokes, and takes a breath.  Wachee cuts the umbilical cord. 

DORA

It’s a boy, Wachee! 

(she cleans his face with a cloth)

          A beautiful boy.

Wachee and Dora smile at each other.  The sun is cresting the eastern horizon.  Bright sunlight begins to stream in the frosted window -- made more dazzling because it is bouncing off snow covering the ground.  The baby is bathed in the sunlight and seems blessed and golden.

WACHEE

Hello, little one!  

   DORA

What should we call him?  We could name him Ephraim, after his father.

WACHEE

No!  No, that name doesn’t fit this child.  We’ll call him Naschon.

DORA

I suppose we can call him that until we hear from Captain Harding.  Naschon. 

     (liking the sound)

What does it mean?

They stare down at the baby who is still bathed by the sunlight.

WACHEE

It means "One who sees clearly."

PACIFIC OCEAN -- DUSK

Ephraim and his crew have returned to the mother ship.  The dead whale is being secured by rope to the ship’s side.  Ephraim is still in the whaler, helping with the whale, which is as long as the main ship herself.  

There are sharks in the water, tearing at the bloody carcass.  As the whale is tied up, she is turned on her side with her stomach exposed.  There is a black protuberance on her lower belly.

SAILOR ONE

Captain Harding, what’s that?

EPHRAIM

Row us over.

They see it is the tail fin of a baby whale.

SAILOR TWO

Why, it's a calf.  Isn't it?

SAILOR ONE

Could it be alive Captain?

EPHRAIM

I don't know.  Hand me the lance.

Ephraim takes the lance and begins to slice up the whale's belly.  A whale calf pops out like a muscle splitting through the seam of a tight cloth.  It is so swift and sudden, Ephraim and the men in the whaler are caught off-guard.  The whale calf hits the edge of their boat, almost tipping it over.

EPHRAIM

Hold on!

The baby whale has very distinctive white spots all over its back and tail.  It thrashes about for a second, then disappears in the water.  The men are stunned. 

SAILOR TWO

What an odd looking calf!

SAILOR THREE

I wonder what’ll become of him, with his mother dead.

Ephraim gives a start.  He looks like a bolt of lightening has just run up his spine.

SAILOR THREE

What about it, Capt’n Harding?  Think you might see him on the ocean one day?

EPHRAIM

     (in a serious and fateful tone)

Yes . . . yes, I think that I may.

INTERIOR/ CAPTAIN'S QUARTERS -- NIGHT

Ephraim sits in his quarters at his desk, writing a letter. He looks out the door to the blazing fires where the blubber is being rendered in three huge kettles.  

  EPHRAIM

(voice over)

My dearest Eliza, fate blessed us again today, and we took a forty ton she-whale.  At this pace, I'll fill the ship in two years and be back to you and our child!  Yes, I received your letter and I cannot tell you how joyous I feel.  I have such plans for our family, such hopes for our future.  I look forward to the day . . .

Just then, Ephraim hears a knock and looks up from his writing.

EPHRAIM

McNeil.

McNEIL

You sent for me Captain?

EPHRAIM

Yes.  I heard some of the men discussing what happened today.  I want you to convey to every man on this ship that no one is to speak of that whale calf again.

McNEIL

(looks puzzled at this odd request, but respects his order)

Aye, Captain.  I'll see to it.

McNeil leaves.  Ephraim gets up from his desk and walks out of his quarters to the ship's railing.  He is deeply troubled by the feeling he had about the baby whale.  He gazes up at the stars and begins speaking aloud.

EPHRAIM

Eliza.  Where are you tonight?  And are

you safe and well? 

(he intuitively knows something is wrong)

Please, God, let her be safe and well.

BEACH/ MARTHA'S VINEYARD – DAY

A three-year-old boy is playing in the waves, having a good time.  On the beach, Dora is resting, reading a book.  She looks relaxed and happy.  The weather is warm and it’s late in the afternoon.  A rider on horseback approaches.  He dismounts and goes to Dora, she rises to greet him.  

DORA

Hello, Charles!

  CHARLES

Good afternoon, Dora.  How are you?

DORA

Fine.  What brings you to the beach?

CHARLES

I have news I thought you'd like to hear.  Captain Harding’s ship is in Newport.  He'll probably be here in a few days. 

DORA

     (with worry she is trying

     to hide)

I wonder what he'll want to do with Naschon?

CHARLES

I’ve heard Captain Harding is a wise man.  He couldn't fail to see that you’ve become the child's mother. 

DORA

I pray you’re right.  But Naschon is his son, not mine. (she looks at the boy)

CHARLES

Don’t worry Dora, it will all work out.  

DORA

Thank you, Charles, and thank you for bringing the news.

CHARLES

     (Charles mounts his horse)

You’re welcome. 

DORA

Good day.

CHARLES

          Good day.

He rides off.  Naschon has come up to show her some seashells he’s found.  Dora pulls him into her lap.  As she cradles him, she takes out a worn letter from her bodice.  It is the letter Ephraim was writing to Eliza.

DORA

(reading aloud from the letter)

" . . . I look forward to the day when I can return to you and our child.  It is the thought of that reunion that makes this lonely life at sea bearable.  Yours, Ephraim."

Dora puts the letter away and looks to the sea.  She gets up, takes Naschon into her arms, and begins to walk towards a cabin behind the dunes.

INTERIOR/ CABIN – DAY, NEARING SUNSET

The cabin is a small, well-built structure with a main room and two bedrooms in the rear.  Dora enters the cabin.  Wachee and her husband, called "Grandfather", are sitting in front of the fireplace.  Dora puts Naschon down and he goes to sit on Grandfather's lap.  Wachee looks up.

WACHEE

What is it Dora?

DORA

Charles Miller came by just now.  He said Captain Harding is in Newport --

he’ll arrive here soon. 

GRANDFATHER

     (knowing what upsets her)

Don’t worry, Dora.  He won’t take the child from you.

DORA

How can you be certain?

GRANDFATHER

(smiles calmly, an aura of spiritual awareness about him)

There are ways of knowing such things.

DORA

I hope you're right.  Will you watch Naschon?  I want to walk on the beach.

He nods.  Dora turns to go outside.

BEACH -- SUNSET

Dora walks down the beach, the sun is setting and the sky is full of beautiful colors.  She searches the ocean horizon, as if watching for Ephraim's ship.

DORA 

                (quietly, to herself)

I pray you are a wise man, Ephraim Harding.

GARDEN OUTSIDE THE CABIN -- DAY

Wachee and Dora are tending the garden.  Naschon is playing a short distance away.  A man on horseback approaches and they rise to meet him.  It is Ephraim.

EPHRAIM

I’m Ephraim Harding.  You must be Miss Clifton?

DORA

Yes, Dora Clifton.  Captain Harding, so good to meet you.

     (she offers her hand, which he    takes in a gentle handshake)

And this is Wachee. 

Ephraim bows to her.  He looks past them to Naschon who is still playing.

EPHRAIM

And is that . . .  

DORA

     (smiling)

Your son?  Yes.  Why don’t you go to him?

Ephraim goes over to Naschon.  With extreme tenderness and a bit awkwardly, he strokes the boy’s head.  Tears come to his eyes.

INTERIOR/ CABIN

Dora and Ephraim are seated at the table. 

DORA

When did you arrive in port?

EPHRAIM

The ship docked this morning.  I want to thank you for caring for my son.  He appears very healthy.

(the baby plays quietly on the floor)

DORA

I’ve enjoyed it . . . he’s like my own now.

EPHRAIM

I know the two of you must share a deep bond – I have no intention of disturbing that.  I just want him to know me as his father.

DORA

(pleased that he understands her feelings)

Of course.  You've missed so much time. 

EPHRAIM

(walking to the window and looking up at the sky)

Too much time.  These long journeys, 

profitable, but what a heavy price to pay.

DORA

It seems a lonely life.

EPHRAIM

Lonely, yes. 

DORA

Why do you do it?

EPHRAIM

My father was a whaling captain.  I’ve been at sea since I was ten years old. 

DORA

And do you love the sea, or is it just what you were taught?

EPHRAIM

     (pausing to think about it)

I suppose I’ve learned to love it, simply by doing it.  A man has little choice as to his heritage.

DORA

My father was a sailor, too, but he stayed at home for my mother's sake.  She died of influenza when I was nine.

EPHRAIM

I’m sorry.

DORA

After that, he went back to sea.  He left me with Wachee and her husband.  I call him Grandfather, everyone does.  But they’re not my real grandparents, just kind enough to take me in.

EPHRAIM

What became of your father?

DORA

His ship went down off Nova Scotia. 

No one survived. 

Ephraim says nothing.  There is a silence, but not an uncomfortable one.  Finally, Dora speaks.   

DORA

I’m so happy for Naschon that you returned safely, and he can now know his father.

EPHRAIM

Naschon?

DORA

Yes, that’s what we call him.

EPHRAIM

But that’s an Indian name.

DORA

Yes . . .

EPHRAIM

I sent a letter asking you to christen him Rudolphus Harding.

DORA

Yes, when I got your letter I had him christened at St. Peters.  But he was a year old by then, and we were use to calling him Naschon.

EPHRAIM

     (not angrily, but forcefully)

Well, that has to change.  The boy must be called by his Christian name. 

DORA

     (eyes and head lowered)

           As you wish.  

Now there is a silence which is awkward.

EPHRAIM  

I do appreciate all you’ve done.  I owe you a huge debt of gratitude.    

  DORA

Well, I made a promise to Eliza, and I’ve tried to keep it.  

EPHRAIM

How did you come to be Eliza's midwife?

DORA

We met in the market shortly before she was due.  We liked each other immediately, almost like sisters.

EPHRAIM

I’m glad she was with someone she felt close to.

DORA

Yes.

EPHRAIM

     (bowing his head slightly)

I wanted to ask you, did she suffer? 

DORA

I won’t lie to you -- Eliza was in tremendous pain for many hours.  The baby was breach, and we couldn’t turn it. 

     (she pauses, seeing his pain)

But at the end, she was calm -- as if her soul were being comforted from the other side. 

(Ephraim nods at the comfort of that thought, there is a long pause)

Will you stay for dinner?

EPHRAIM

Yes, thank you.

DORA

It’ll be ready soon.  You can play with Na . . .

(catching herself about to call him Naschon)

Rudolphus until then.

DINING AREA

Dora, Ephraim, Wachee, Grandfather, and the baby are seated around the table finishing dinner.  There is a large pot of soup in the middle, and fresh bread on a wooden platter.  The sun has set, and whale oil lamps burn on the tables in the room. 

GRANDFATHER

(he always speaks slowly,

with wisdom and without malice)

I remember when dead whales would drift up on shore here.  I was a young man then.  There weren't many people living on the island.

EPHRAIM

I suppose you never see that anymore.

GRANDFATHER

No, the whales have been hunted so much here, there are none left.

EPHRAIM

So now we must sail to the Pacific.

WACHEE

     (with a sharp tongue)

Don't you think you should stop hunting so furiously?

EPHRAIM

The demand is furious.  Whale oil is used in everything. 

     (he gestures to a lamp)

Our entire economy runs on whales.

WACHEE

It can't go on.

EPHRAIM

The Pacific Ocean is vast -- limitless.  We needn’t worry about the whales ever running out there.

WAHCEE

     (obviously disagreeing, she makes a "huff" noise and gets up from the table)

I need to pen up the chickens.

     (she leaves the cabin)

GRANDFATHER

I'll put Naschon to bed.

EPHRAIM

     (correcting him)

Rudolphus.  The child's name is Rudolphus.

GRANDFATHER

     (looks to Dora and sees her dilemma)

Yes, come Rudolphus.

Grandfather leads the baby into the other room.

EPHRAIM

Why did you name him Naschon?

DORA

He was born at sunrise, and in the Wampanoag language Naschon means "one who sees clearly."

Ephraim ponders this for a brief moment.  He gets up from the table.

EPHRAIM

I must thank you for continuing to care for my son.  I don't feel it wise to bring him to live with me just yet. 

DORA

(fighting her fear of losing Naschon)

It would be too great a change. 

EPHRAIM

It may take some time before he’s ready.

DORA

                (nods in agreement)

Yes.

EPHRAIM

May I come here to spend time with him?

DORA  

Yes, of course.  Will you come tomorrow?

EPHRAIM

Yes.  In the afternoon?

DORA

Fine.

EPHRAIM

Well, thank you for dinner.

DORA

You‘re welcome.

EPHRAIM

Good night then.

     (he exits)

INTERIOR/ CABIN -- DAY

Dora stands at the kitchen window looking out at Ephraim and Naschon who are playing in the yard.  Ephraim has brought scrimshawed toys, and a looking glass that he is holding up to the baby's eye.  They have their backs to the cabin.  Wachee comes to Dora’s side.  

WACHEE

I don't like him.  He’s trying to change your son.

DORA

You seem to forget he's not my son.

WACHEE

He is yours.  Spirit left him with you. You shaped his mind during his most important years.  But if that man gets him now, much damage can still be done.

DORA

Damage?  Captain Harding doesn't seem like he means to cause the child any harm.

WACHEE

Not damage like you imagine.  Damage to the soul.  The world this Captain lives in – it’s a greedy world.  He will teach Naschon to be greedy, too.

     (Dora looks from Wachee out the   window to where they are playing)

You know in your heart it’s true.

Wachee walks away.  Dora continues to stare out at Ephraim and the boy.

EXTERIOR/ CABIN -- NIGHT

Ephraim is preparing to leave.  Naschon is cradled in his arms, asleep.  Dora stands next to the horse tethered at the rail of the cabin.  Ephraim transfers the sleeping child to her as they talk.

DORA

It must feel good to be back and be with your son.  

EPHRAIM

You've no idea how I looked forward to this time.

Dora smiles but says nothing.  There is a slight pause and they stand in a semi-uncomfortable silence.

  EPHRAIM

Miss Clifton, I want to ask you something.  I'm having a party at my house tomorrow night -- to celebrate the return of our ship.  I plan to have Rudolphus there, and I'd like it very much if you’d come too.

DORA

I’d be pleased to go.

EPHRAIM

Excellent.  Shall I send my carriage for you around seven?

DORA

That will be fine.

EPHRAIM

     (mounting his horse)

Until tomorrow then.

Ephraim rides off.  Dora smiles in an interested way, a romantic spark beginning, and heads back into the cabin.

INTERIOR/ CABIN -- EVENING

Dora is holding her breath while Wachee laces up her whalebone corset.

WACHEE

Dora, this is ridiculous.  How can you breathe?

DORA

Just a little tighter, Wachee.

WACHEE

     (pulling even tighter)

There.  That's it.  Anymore and you'll be cut in two.

Dora goes to the mirror, trying different ways to fix her hair.

DORA

Wachee, do you like it up -- like this?  Or what about down and brushed to the side -- like this?

WACHEE

I like it when you aren't being silly. 

Why do you care so much how you look?

DORA

I just want to look nice.

WACHEE

You have an interest in this Captain Harding?

DORA

I find myself liking him.  He's stern, but he seems fair and gentle too.

WACHEE

You'll do better to stay with your mother's people.  You have fair skin after your father, but you’re one of us.  If you enter this Captain’s world, you won’t like it.

DORA

     (turning away from Wachee

     to look in the mirror)

But I feel a pull toward him . . . and he is the father of the child I now feel is my own.  

WACHEE

I don’t like it.

DORA

You don't have to, just help me with this awful corset!

     (she pulls on the corset)

WACHEE

     (helping her adjust it)

Have you told him your mother was a Wampanog Indian?

DORA

It hasn't come up.

WACHEE

So.  You'll not only let him change Naschon, but you too?

DORA

     (she pushes Wachee away)

Go away.  I can do it myself.

Wachee turns to leave the room.  Dora continues looking at herself in the mirror.  As she passes the doorway, Wachee looks back at Dora with sadness and concern.

INTERIOR/ EPHRAIM'S HOME -- NIGHT

The main drawing room is large and well-appointed.  The gentlemen and ladies present are nicely dressed.  A group of musicians plays a waltz, and several couples are dancing.  Ephraim finishes a dance with one of the women.

MISS CHESNUTT

Thank you for the dance, Captain Harding.

EPHRAIM

My pleasure, Miss Chesnutt.

The woman departs.  Ephraim is approached by two other gentlemen, older than he and very well dressed.

EPHRAIM

Colonel Skardon, Mr. Whitaker,

good to see you.

COLONEL SKARDON

Captain Harding, what a fine party!

MR. WHITAKER

And I understand you have good reason to celebrate.  I heard you made a handsome profit for your investors.

EPHRAIM

We brought in 1,000 barrels of top grade oil.  The ship was a good vessel. 

COLONEL SKARDON

Yes.  A good ship is a deciding

factor . . .

     (hinting at something)

along with a good captain.

MR. WHITAKER

That's right.  Which is why Colonel Skardon and I would like to discuss a proposition with you.

EPHRAIM

What is it?

COLONEL SKARDON

We’ve been outfitting a whaling ship for the South Pacific.  John Paige was to captain her.  She was to sail about a week ago.

MR. WHITAKER

Paige was involved in a riding accident -- broke his leg quite badly.  Doctor says it’ll take awhile to heal.

EPHRAIM

And you have a ship with no captain.

COLONEL SKARDON

     (his hand on Ephraim's shoulder)

I know when a man's been on a long voyage, he wants to spend time at home.  But this venture would be very profitable for you.

EPHRAIM

I can tell you I'm not anxious to go back to sea -- my son is three and knows me no more than he does a stranger.

MR. WHITAKER

We’re prepared to make such a sacrifice bearable by what you'd gain in return.

EPHRAIM

All I can promise is that I’ll listen to your proposal.  Can we meet tomorrow to discuss it?

COLONEL SKARDON

Of course, my man, of course. 

Tonight you must enjoy yourself, not talk of business. 

     (he shakes Ephraim’s hand)

MR. WHITAKER

Until tomorrow.

     (he also shakes Ephraim’s hand)

Mr. Whitaker and Colonial Skardon depart.  Ephraim glances toward the front door.  Dora has just arrived.  Her dress is somewhat plain, but Dora is beautiful and out-shines all the other women.  She holds Naschon's small hand as he stands beside her.  As she moves hesitantly into the party, Ephraim goes toward her.

EPHRAIM

Miss Clifton, good evening.

DORA

Good evening Captain Harding.  

EPHRAIM

You had a pleasant trip here?

DORA

Yes, your carriage is very comfortable.  

Ephraim picks Naschon up and escorts Dora into the party.  They are approached by two couples.

MALE FRIEND ONE

Ephraim!  Welcome back!

MALE FRIEND TWO

Welcome home, Ephraim.

EPHRAIM

It's good to be back. This is Rudolphus, my son.

FEMALE FRIEND ONE

Hello there.

NASCHON  

Hello, ma’am.

FEMALE FRIEND TWO

Ephraim, he’s an angel!

     (everyone nods in agreement)

MALE FRIEND ONE

A fine boy!

EPHRAIM

Thank you. 

(he looks at Dora)

Also, may I present Dora Clifton. 

She was Eliza’s midwife, and has been caring for my son.  

     (they all nod politely)

MALE FRIEND ONE

Ephraim, we’re all sad about what happened to Eliza.

     (they all nod in agreement)

FEMALE FRIEND ONE

Yes, very sad.  

EPHRAIM

          Thank you.

(there is a slight pause in the conversation)  

  FEMALE FRIEND TWO

                (changing the subject)

Ephraim, thank you for inviting us here, it's such a nice party.

EPHRAIM

I’m glad you’re enjoying it.

FEMALE FRIEND TWO

     (just thinking of something)

Oh, why don’t you join us tomorrow night?  We’re going to the theater, there’s a new play.

MALE FRIEND TWO

Yes, we’d be happy if you could join us.  And Miss Clifton, you’re welcome, too.

(the others nod in assent) 

EPHRAIM

(he turns to Dora)

Would you like to go?

DORA

     (with a slight hesitation)

. . . Yes, I’d love to.

MALE FRIEND TWO

Excellent!

FEMALE FRIEND ONE

     (as the band strikes up a waltz)

Ephraim, come dance with me. 

     (she leads him away)

EXTERIOR PORCH/ EPHRAIM’S HOUSE -- NIGHT

It is later in the evening.  Dora has left the party and sits out on the porch, which overlooks the Vineyard Haven harbor.  Even at night, it is bustling with ships being loaded and unloaded. 

The moon is full.  It hangs over the ocean, reflecting a path of shimmering light on the water.  There is a chilly evening breeze and Dora shivers.

Ephraim passes by the porch door and sees Dora.  He goes out to her.  Noticing her shivering, he takes his coat off and goes to put it around her shoulders.

EPHRAIM

May I?

DORA

Yes, thank you.

EPHRAIM

You hesitated about going to the theater.  I don't mean to monopolize your time . . .

DORA

     (interrupting him)

Oh, it isn't that.  It’s just . . . well, this is my only good dress.  I’d be embarrassed to show up in it two nights in a row.

EPHRAIM

Miss Clifton . . .

DORA

Please, call me Dora.

EPHRAIM

And you call me Ephraim.  Dora, after what you’ve done for me, you needn’t worry about such things.  Do you have time to go shopping tomorrow?

DORA

Yes, I guess so.

EPHRAIM

Good.  Go to a dress shop and get whatever gowns you like.  Have them send me the bill.  

DORA

Thank you.  That's very generous.

EPHRA

It’s getting late.  Let’s put the boy to sleep here, and you can get him tomorrow. 

DORA

I don't think he’d do well.  He’s never stayed anywhere overnight.  

  EPHRAIM 

Hmm . . .

DORA  

Perhaps once he becomes more accustomed to your home?  

  EPHRAIM 

     (reconsidering)

Yes.  You're right.  Can you leave him with me tomorrow while you shop?

DORA

Of course.  I should be getting him home now.

     (she hands Ephraim his coat)

Thank you for your coat, I’m much warmer now.

EPHRAIM

You’re welcome, I’ll call your carriage.

     (he walks out with her)

INTERIOR/ LADIES DRESS STORE -- DAY

Dora is trying on different gowns.  She is not accustomed to this -- having the store attendants catering to her.  She has on a beautiful green evening gown.

STORE ATTENDANT ONE

You look lovely!

STORE ATTENDANT TWO

Very beautiful!

Dora looks in the mirror and smiles.  She likes this lifestyle -- her first step into a different world.

INTERIOR/ EPHRAIM'S HOME -- DAY

Dora is let in by the maid.  Ephraim is on the floor in the study, playing with Naschon who has a set of wooden building blocks. 

EPHRAIM

     (looking up)

How did it go?

DORA

Oh, they had the most lovely gowns.  It was so hard to choose. 

(she hands him a piece of paper, the bill) 

I got two, I hope they weren't too much.

EPHRAIM

     (not looking at it)

No, not at all. 

(getting up from the floor and in a more serious tone)

Dora, there’s something I need to discuss with you.

DORA

What is it, Ephraim?

EPHRAIM

I met with two investors this morning.  They have a whaling ship outfitted and ready to sail.  Their captain had a bad accident. 

(the look on Dora's face shows she realizes what Ephraim is about to say) 

They’ve asked me to take his place.

DORA

But you just got back. . . .  You’d have to be gone again for years!

EPHRAIM

Yes, but its the Falcon Wing!  One of the best whalers ever made.  I’ve dreamed of the chance to captain a ship like this.

DORA

How soon would you have to leave?

EPHRAIM

As soon as we can – we have to get around Cape Horn before winter hits.

DORA

(softly)

Oh.

EPHRIAM

Before I make a decision, I have to know if you would continue caring for Rudolphus.  He knows you as his mother.  I wouldn’t leave him with anyone else.

DORA

Yes, of course I will.

EPHRAIM

I’d want you to make certain changes. 

DORA

Changes?

EPHRAIM  

Yes, I want you to live here, in my home.  I’ll provide for you financially, and you'll have the stable hand and the maid to help you.

DORA

Why do you want us to move?

EPHRAIM

Dora, please don’t be offended.  I know Wachee and Grandfather have been like parents to you, but it’s not the environment I want for my son.

DORA

     (defensively)

You mean living with Indians?

EPHRAIM

Yes.

DORA  

But him living here with me is acceptable?

EPHRAIM

Yes, of course.

DORA

     (wanting to say something, but biting her tongue)

As you wish.

EPHRAIM

Good.  This makes my decision much easier. 

     (he paces over to the window and searches the sky)

INTERIOR/ CABIN BEDROOM -- EVENING

Dora is wearing one of the new gowns.  She is fixing her hair before leaving for the theater.  Wachee sits on the bed.

WACHEE

So, this man wants you to live in Vineyard Haven while he’s away.

DORA

Yes.  It’s the only way he’ll let me keep Naschon.

WACHEE

He thinks we are less than him.

DORA

His prejudice is no worse than what’s common.

WACHEE

And have you told him?

DORA

     (Dora avoids her question)

We can still come here all the time.  It's not that Ephraim wants the boy to have no contact with you and Grandfather . . .

WACHEE

     (interrupting her)

Dora, have you told him?

DORA

     (forcefully)

That my mother was an Indian?  No.  I can't risk it.  He might take Naschon from me.

WACHEE

     (angrily)

How willingly you forget who you are for this man!

DORA

It’s not for him, it’s for Naschon.  I have no choice!

WACHEE

No.  Maybe not. 

(looking at her dress and fingering the cloth of the other laying on the bed) 

But you accept his gifts with ease.

DORA

     (looking at her image in

     the mirror)

It’s nice to have such things.

WACHEE

     (more gently now)

But are you willing to pay the price?

(Dora ignores her, Wachee goes to her and puts her hands on Dora's shoulders)

Are you willing to lose who you are?

DORA

     (pulling away)

That won't happen.

WACHEE

Yes it will.

     (she starts to leave the room, but    stops and turns in the doorway)

It’s already begun.

THEATER -- EVENING

Dora and Ephraim are in the balcony.  Ephraim is seated slightly behind Dora, and glances at her exposed neck and shoulders.  Dora turns and smiles at him.  He smiles back.

EXTERIOR/ CABIN -- NIGHT

Ephraim and Dora stand before the cabin door.  The moon is full, and the landscape is almost as bright as a cloudy day. 

DORA

I enjoyed this evening so much. 

The theater was wonderful.

EPHRAIM

Yes, I enjoyed it too.

DORA

Have you spoken with your investors yet.  Do you know when you're leaving?

EPHRAIM

Yes, we met late this afternoon. 

I'll be leaving the day after tomorrow.

DORA

     (quietly)

So very soon.

     (she drops her head and looks at the ground)

There is a long pause.  As Dora has her head lowered, Ephraim reaches for her.  He stops, due to decorum and uncertainty.

EPHRAIM

Well, I’ll be going.

DORA

     (looking up)

Goodnight Ephraim.

EPHRAIM

Goodnight Dora.

He gets into his carriage and drives away.

VINEYARD HAVEN HARBOR/ DECK OF THE FALCON WING -- DAY

Provisions are being loaded on the ship.  Ephraim is supervising.  He is in a crisp white shirt.  He looks powerful and in his element.  McNeil is checking off items on his ledger as sailors haul sacks and barrels past him.  

McNEIL

That’s the last of it, Captain.

EPHRAIM

Good, check the hold.  Make sure everything’s properly stored.

McNEIL

Aye, Captain.

Ephraim looks down to the wharf.  Dora rides up in a one-horse carriage she drives herself, Naschon is with her.  Ephraim goes down the gangplank.  Dora has gotten out of the carriage.  Naschon stands by her side.

DORA

Getting everything loaded?

EPHRAIM

She's almost set.

DORA

I brought you something.

She takes a small package from her pocket and hands it to him.  He unwraps the gift -- inside is a gold locket which opens to reveal a small, hand-sketched picture of Naschon.

EPHRAIM

Dora, how thoughtful of you. 

DORA

I drew it myself.

EPHRAIM

I'll look at this everyday.

DORA

I pray you stay well, and that your voyage is short and successful.

EPHRAIM

Dora, . . .

(he takes her hands in his, they are both moved by each other’s touch)

Ephraim doesn't finish the sentence.  They stand holding hands.  There is a romantic tension between them, but they do not embrace.

McNEIL

     (shouting down to the wharf)

Captain, she's ready to go.

Reluctantly, Ephraim lets go of Dora’s hands.  He picks up Naschon. 

EPHRAIM

     (hugging his son)

Good-bye Rudolphus.  God keep you safe.

     (handing the child to Dora)

Good-bye Dora.  

DORA

Good-bye Ephraim.

(they smile at one another as he turns to leave)

MARTHA'S VINEYARD/ ROAD NEAR THE BEACH -- DAY

Dora has stopped the carriage on a road that overlooks the harbor.  She watches Ephraim's ship.  It moves off on the horizon, getting smaller and smaller.  Dora puts her head down for a moment.  Then, she looks up, a quiet resolve in her eyes, and tells the horse to getty-up.

MONTAGE

Dora and Naschon are in Ephraim’s house, being served dinner by the maid.  Ephraim scans the water, searching for whales.  Naschon picks berries with Grandfather.  Ephraim stands at the ship's rail at night, watching the stars.  Dora and Wachee are attending a pregnant woman.  Ephraim directs his men as they tie up a freshly killed whale to the ship hull.  Naschon swims in the ocean, delighting in the waves.

DORA

(voice over, reading from her letters to Ephraim)

Dear Ephraim,  We enjoy living in your house, it’s quite comfortable.  Rudolphus is growing with every passing day.  He spends his time in the woods hunting, and he loves to swim.  The ocean is his second home, and where he is happiest.  I have received two of your letters and I am always happy to know you are well.  I pray for your safe and speedy return.  

EPHRAIM

(voice over, reading from his letters to Dora)

Dear Dora,  This voyage has been made so long by the lack of whales.  Grounds that were once plentiful now yield up a fraction of their past glory.  It makes for a long, frustrating voyage.  But, soon the hull will fill at last, and I’ll be coming home.

WOODS OF MARTHA'S VINEYARD -- DAY

There is a deer in a clearing in the woods, its head bent down to eat.  In some brush on the edge of the clearing sit Grandfather and Naschon, who is now eight years old.  Grandfather has his bow pulled back, ready to shoot.  Suddenly, quietly, he lowers the bow. 

Naschon has been watching Grandfather.  He looks to the clearing to see why Grandfather didn't shoot.  A fawn has stepped into the clearing.  It goes up to nuzzle its mother.  Grandfather silently motions to Naschon and they leave. 

As they walk through the forest, Naschon takes Grandfather's hand.  A hawk swoops down from its perch in a nearby tree and glides over their heads before soaring off.

GRANDFATHER

     (looking after the hawk)

I think you’re about to take a new path and I must prepare you for it.

NASCHON

(looking at Grandfather quizzically)

Why do you say that?

GRANDFATHER

Hawks never fly that close to people without a reason.  He was telling us about a new flight for you.

NASCHON

A new flight?

GRANDFATHER

Yes, and you must prepare.

NASCHON

How?

GRANDFATHER

We will go to the beach very early, before the sun comes up, and I’ll show you.

NASCHON

(Grandfather's tone having made him serious)

All right.  Before the sun.

EXTERIOR/ CABIN -- DAY

Naschon and Grandfather return from hunting.  As they near the cabin, Dora sees them and runs to them.  She is very excited.

DORA

A messenger just left.  Your father’s ship just sailed into port.  Come quickly, Naschon. 

(she pulls Naschon after her, leaving Grandfather behind) 

And remember, he likes to call you by your Christian name.

VINEYARD HAVEN HARBOR -- DAY

The Falcon Wing is secured to the dock.  Ephraim is on the deck.  He looks older, more tired, more serious.  Dora drives up in a horse-drawn carriage.  Naschon is by her side.  The dock is crowded with people coming to meet the ship.

DORA

EPHRAIM! Ephraim, down here!

EPHRAIM

DORA!

He hurries down the gangplank to them.  The rest of the men are piling off the vessel and their loved ones are greeting them.  Everyone is happy.

  EPHRAIM 

     (taking her hand)

Dora, it’s good to see you.

DORA

I'm so glad you're back.

     (she turns to Naschon)

Rudolphus, come greet your father.

Naschon and Ephraim approach each other awkwardly.

NASCHON

Hello, father.

They shake hands and Ephraim pulls him in for a loose hug and pat on the back.

EPHRAIM

You don't really know me, but that will change son.  I intend to make up for these long voyages at sea.

He smiles at Naschon.  Then he smiles at Dora -- their eyes hold each other, as she smiles in return.

MARTHA'S VINEYARD BEACH -- JUST BEFORE DAWN

Grandfather and Naschon are sitting side by side on the beach.  Their legs are crossed under them.  The sun is just about to rise over the waves.

GRANDFATHER

When the sun is coming up, you can harness its power.  You can use that power to glimpse your future.

NASCHON

What should I do?

GRANDFATHER

Close your eyes and breathe deeply.

(Naschon closes his eyes, Grandfather kneels behind him and places his hands on either side of the boy’s head – like he is doing energy work)

Concentrate on the inside of your eyelids.  Feel the sun hitting there.  Soon you'll see other things.

PACIFIC OCEAN -- SUNSET

Naschon’s face blurs into a dream.  He is swimming next to a whale -- it is the spotted whale that his father released from the mother whale's belly.  The whale and he seem to be communicating. 

MARTHA'S VINEYARD BEACH -- DAWN

Naschon's face shows he is experiencing something powerful.  Grandfather is watching him closely.

GRANDFATHER

(seeing Naschon returning to normal)

What did you see?

  NASCHON

I saw a whale, Grandfather.  He was spotted.  And he seemed to be talking to me.

GRANDFATHER

What did he say?

NASCHON

He said, "Follow your heart."

GRANDFATHER

A time will come when this will be very important.  Always remember what the whale told you.

NASCHON

I will.

EXTERIOR/ EPHRAIM'S NEW VINEYARD HAVEN HOUSE -- DAY

Dora and Naschon pull up in a buggy.  The stable hand comes to take their horse and carriage for them.  Ephraim is in shirtsleeves.  Behind him, the framework for a large home rises.  Workmen are all about, hammering, sawing, bringing in more lumber.  There is a long drive up from the street, on either side of which new trees have been planted.

NASCHON

Hello, Father.

EPHRAIM

Hello, Rudy.  Good morning, Dora.  

  DORA

Ephraim, I had no idea you’d get the frame up this quickly!

EPHRAIM

The work has gone well.

DORA

It’s nice of you to let me stay in your old house.

EPHRAIM

It’s the least I can do, given all you’ve done for Rudy.

DORA

It’s nice that we're only two streets apart.

EPHRAIM

Yes it is.

They both smile at one another.  Naschon has been silently studying the building.

EPHRAIM

What do you think of it, Rudy?

NASCHON

How many rooms will it have?

EPHRAIM

Fifteen.

NASCHON

That’s huge!

EPHRAIM

     (smiling)

Yes, I guess it’s big enough.

     (Ephraim looks at the sky) 

It’s going to be a nice afternoon.  Would you like to go sailing, Rudy?

NASCHON

I've never been sailing before.

EPHRAIM

     (looking at Dora)

What?!  A Harding who’s never been sailing?

DORA

Don't look at me -- you're the sailor.

EPHRAIM

Well, you’re in for a treat!

A carriage pulls up the driveway and stops in front of them.  From its luxurious interior steps Hattie Mayfield.  She is the town madam -- a warm, expansive soul.  She is about forty-five years old, with bright red hair.  

EPHRAIM

Miss Mayfield.

HATTIE

Captain Harding, good day.

EPHRAIM

Good day.  May I present Dora Clifton and my son, Rudolphus.

HATTIE

Pleased to meet you both.

DORA

A pleasure.

NASCHON

Nice to meet you, ma'am.

EPHRAIM

What brings you here?

HATTIE

I need your help in a small matter.  It concerns your first mate, Mr. McNeil.

EPHRAIM

Yes, what is it?

HATTIE

He’s run up a rather large debt with my establishment.  Could you speak with him about bringing his bill current?

EPHRAIM

Certainly, Miss Mayfield.  I'm seeing him tomorrow.  I'll bring it to his attention.

HATTIE

Thank you so much.  My, this is a grand house you’re building!  And so nice overlooking the harbor. 

EPHRAIM

Thank you.

HATTIE

Well, I'll be on my way.  Thank you again.

EPHRAIM

Yes, good-bye Miss Mayfield.

DORA

     (after she’s gone, a bit jealous)

Who was that?  

EPHRAIM

Hattie?  She owns . . . um . . . a house for entertainment. 

DORA

Oh.

     (pause)

Well, I have some shopping to do.  Shall I leave Rudy with you for the afternoon?

EPHRAIM

Yes.  We’ll take out a sailboat.

     (he and Rudy smile at each other)

VINEYARD HAVEN HARBOR/ SAILBOAT -- DAY

Ephraim and Naschon are in a small sailboat.  Ephraim is tacking back and forth in the wind.  He shows Naschon how to work with the ropes.  He bends the boy's small hands around the rope.  There is care in his touch.  The sails billow in the sunshine and breeze.

EPHRAIM

There, that's right. 

Just work in balance with the wind.

NASCHON

     (preparing to tack)

Now?

EPHRAIM

Yes.

     (Naschon tacks back to starboard)

There, you're really getting the idea.

NASCHON

When did you learn to sail?

EPHRAIM

My father taught me when I was younger than you.

NASCHON

Was that in Scotland?

EPHRAIM

Yes.

NASCHON

What was it like there?

EPHRAIM

The land is beautiful, covered with grass that’s emerald green.  But I lived mostly at sea.  By the time I was ten, I was on whaling voyages with my father.

NASCHON

     (watching the sail)

Should I tack again?

EPHRAIM

No.  No need to work hard, just ease it more into the wind, like this.

     (Ephraim shows him how to do it)

So, Dora wrote me that you like to hunt.

NASCHON

Yes, sir.

EPHRAIM

What do you hunt?

NASCHON

Deer, rabbit, sometimes turkey.

EPHRAIM

What rifle do you use?

NASCHON

Not a rifle, bow and arrow.  Time to turn?

EPHRAIM

     (not liking this response)

Yes.  Go ahead.

Naschon turns the boat too far into the wind, the sail is slack and billowing out of control.  They are in danger of turning over.

EPHRAIM

Pull hard!

Ephraim grabs the rope to help Naschon get control.

NASCHON

I’m sorry father.

EPHRAIM

No need to be sorry, son.  You're learning.  And you remained calm.  That’s important.

NASCHON

(brightens at the way his father makes him feel)

Did you ever capsize when you were learning?

EPHRAIM

     (laughing)

Oh yes, more than once I tell you.

NASCHON

     (looking out to sea)

What about the big ships, do you ever make mistakes with them?

EPHRAIM

Sometimes.  But those mistakes can be deadly.  A captain has to be absolutely certain of his abilities.

NASCHON

How did you learn what to do?

EPHRAIM

My father taught me. 

     (pausing)

Just like I hope to teach you someday.

NASCHON

     (looking at him and smiling)

I’d like to learn.

              (Ephraim smiles back)

INTERIOR/ EPHRAIM'S OLD HOUSE (now Dora's) -- EVENING

Ephraim is returning Naschon after a full day of sailing.  Naschon enters first and runs up to Dora, excited.

DORA

Hello.  How was it?

NASCHON

I really liked it!

EPHRAIM

And he has a knack for it, too.

DORA

Good, but it’s long past your bedtime. 

Go wash up and get to bed.

NASCHON

Yes, ma’am.  Goodnight father.

EPHRAIM

Goodnight.

Naschon goes up the stairs.  Dora smiles at Ephraim.

DORA

You look like you had a good time.

EPHRAIM

It was wonderful.  He's such a fine boy.  You’ve done a good job with him.

DORA

Thank you. 

     (not wanting him to go) 

Would you like a glass of port?

EPHRAIM

Yes.  That would be nice.

Dora goes to a cabinet and takes out a bottle and two glasses.  Ephraim sits on the couch.  She hands him a glass and sits on the other end of the couch.

DORA

Here you are.

EHPRAIM

Thank you.

EPHRAIM

Tell me, Dora, when did you become a midwife?

DORA

Wachee has midwifed for fifty years.  Since I was ten or so, I’d go along with her and help. 

EPHRAIM

And how old are you now?

DORA

Twenty-seven.  I've seen a lot of babies born.

EPHRAIM

And for yourself.  Do you want children?

DORA

Oh, very much.  I’ve been happy to have Rudy, but I do want my own some day.

EPHRAIM

Yes.  I would like more children, too.

DORA

I think three boys and three girls would be a nice family.

EPHRAIM

That's what I've always thought.

They blush, realizing the intimation of their conversation. There is a pause.  Ephraim continues hesitantly.

EPHRAIM

I hoped that when I returned you would still be unattached . . . I worried someone else would surely have spoken for you.

DORA

(lowering her head and almost

in a whisper)

I was waiting for you.

EPHRAIM

I'm so glad you did.

     (he moves closer to her)

He takes her hand and kisses it.  Then, he lifts her chin

with his hand and looks into her eyes.

EPHRAIM

Dora, being at sea gives you a lot of time to think about how you want to spend the precious time between voyages . . . I want to spend my time with you.

DORA

That’s what I've hoped for too.

He touches her cheek with his hand, they look deeply into each other’s eyes.  Ephraim pulls her close and they kiss.

EXTERIOR/ CABIN -- DAY

Wachee and Dora are drying herbs together on the porch.  Naschon and Grandfather are out in the garden.

WACHEE

You never come here anymore.

DORA

It’s just so busy since Ephraim’s been back.  He wants to spend as much time with Rudy as he can.

WACHEE

     (gives one of her "huffs")

I think you want to spend as much time

with the Captain as you can.

DORA

     (she gets up her courage) 

I'll be spending all my time with him soon.

              (Wachee looks up at her but

              says nothing)

He’s asked me to marry him.

(Wachee shakes her head)

Why do you shake your head --

What’s wrong with our marrying?

WACHEE

He doesn't fit in with your family, that’s what’s wrong.

DORA

Family?  I have no family -- I’m an orphan!  This is my chance to have a real family -- with Ephraim.

WACHEE

You do have a family!  Your mother, Grandfather, me!!  We are your people.  Not a greedy whale hunter.  He's blinded you with his big houses and fancy dresses.

DORA

He's opened my eyes to another kind of life! 

WACHEE

That life may look appealing, but he and his kind are users and takers.  

DORA

     (angrily)

I won't listen to your insults.

(she puts down the herbs and gets up to leave)

WACHEE

Not insults.  Truth.  He will destroy you, who you are. 

DORA

Enough.

(she leaves, Wachee looks sad and troubled)

INTERIOR/ EPHRAIM’S NEW EDGARTOWN HOME  -- DAY

Rudy is walking through the building with Ephraim.  It is nearly complete.

EPHRAIM

It won't be long now, we’ll be able to move in. 

RUDOLPHUS

(his strong attachment to Dora obvious)

Will I be moving in with you?

EPHRAIM

Son, I know you don’t want to be separated from Dora, she’s like your mother.  But as it turns out, your moving in here won’t do that.

RUDOLPHUS

     (looks at him curiously)

How do you mean?

EPHRAIM

     (smiling)

I’ve asked Dora to marry me.

RUDOLPHUS

     (brightening)

Really? 

EPHRAIM

And she said yes.

RUDOLPHUS

     (hugging his father)

So we all get to live together?

EPHRAIM

Yes we do.

RUDOLPHUS

That’s wonderful, Father.

EPHRAIM

    (he puts his hand on Rudy’s shoulder)

Yes, it is.

(as they continue walking through the building, Ephraim raises a different subject)

Rudy, there’s something else I want to discuss with you.

RUDOLPHUS

What is it, Father?

EPHRAIM

I want you to change schools -- to St. Andrews Academy.  I’m speaking with the headmaster tomorrow.

RUDLOPHUS

     (not liking this)

The boys that go there are snobby.

EPHRAIM

That’s called confidence.  And it stands you well to develop it.  I've given this a great deal of thought, Rudolphus, and I believe it’s in your best interest.

RUDOLPHUS

(consenting to his father's wishes)

Yes, father.

INTERIOR/ HEADMASTER'S OFFICE, SAINT ANDREWS ACADAMY -- DAY

The headmaster is pouring Ephraim a cup of tea.

HEADMASTER

So, Captain Harding, your son is now eight years old?

EPHRAIM

Yes.  I feel it’s time for him to receive more rigorous training, and to be among boys of like background.

HEADMASTER

Yes, certainly.  As you know, it’s not only the instruction that forms young minds, but the caliber of boys with whom they associate in these formative years.

EPHRAIM

Exactly.

HEADMASTER

When would you like him to start?

EPHRAIM

He can begin immediately.

INTERIOR/ SAINT ANDREWS ACADAMY CLASSROOM -- DAY

Rudolphus pulls on the tight white collar of his shirt, secured with a necktie, trying to get room to breathe.  A stern-looking teacher at the front of the class is instructing them on how to conjugate Latin verbs.

TEACHER

“I am.”  How do you say that in Latin?

STUDENT ONE

     (raises his hand)

“Sum.”

TEACHER

“We are” . . . Who can tell me the Latin for “We are?”

No one raises his hand.  The teacher looks down at his seating chart, pulls his spectacles down in order to read, and looks back up, directly at Rudy.

TEACHER 

Rudolphus Harding.

RUDOLPHUS

“We are.” “Sumus.”

TEACHER

Correct. 

     (an old-fashioned bell rings

     the noon hour)

Boys, you may proceed to the dining hall.

INTERIOR/ SCHOOL CORRIDOR -- DAY

The boys pour out of the classroom.  A likable boy from the class approaches Rudy as he walks down the corridor.

THOMAS

Hi.  Don't worry about Mr. Mathews.

(nodding toward the classroom)

He likes to pick on new kids.

RUDOLPHUS

I'm just glad my father helped me with my lessons last night.

THOMAS

You're lucky.  My dad's been at sea for two years.

RUDOLPHUS

Is he a whaler?

THOMAS

Yah, first mate on the Comstock. 

What about your dad?

RUDOLPHUS

He's a captain.

THOMAS

What ship?

RUDOLPHUS

His last was the Falcon Wing.

THOMAS

     (obviously impressed)

That‘s great!

INTERIOR/ SCHOOL DINING HALL -- DAY

Rudy and Thomas enter the dining hall.  As they do, a fight breaks out between two boys.  The boys are throwing punches and kicking each other.  A crowd is gathering around them.

FIGHTER ONE

Take it back.

FIGHTER TWO

Never!

Mr. Mathews and the headmaster come in and pull the boys apart. 

HEADMASTER

Boys!  Boys! Stop this instant!

FIGHTER ONE

     (still struggling)

But, he called my mother a squaw!

FIGHTER TWO

     (provoking him)

Squaw, squaw!

HEADMASTER

That’s enough!  Both of you, to my office. 

He takes them by the shirt collars and pulls them with him.  The excitement over, the other boys return to their meals. 

THOMAS

There are my friends.

     (pointing to a table in the corner)

Come on, let’s sit with them.

RUDOLPHUS

All right.

THOMAS

    (to his friends)

Hey, this is a new student.

    (wanting to introduce him)

What do you go by?  Rudolphus? Rudy?

RUDOLPHUS

(hesitating just a second and looking back to where the fight occurred)

Uh . . . Rudy. 

THOMAS

His father’s a whaling captain.

The boys all make approving nods.  Thomas and Rudy sit down at the end of the table.  The whole dining area is full of rows of boys, all white, all in white shirts, sitting around tables with white tablecloths.

INTERIOR/ RUDY'S ROOM -- NIGHT

Ephraim and Rudy are bent over a desk with books on it.  Ephraim is helping him with his studies.

RUDY

I got called on in Latin class today.

EPHRAIM

On your second day?

RUDY

Yeah.  Thomas, this boy I met, says the Latin teacher has it in for new kids.

EPHRAIM

Well, you should be able to handle him.

RUDY

Father . . . there were two boys fighting today.

 (Ephraim looks up, noticing his son's change of tone) 

One of them called the other one's mother a squaw.  Why do people look down on Indians so much?

EPHRAIM

Son, your upbringing was unusual.  Most whites haven’t had the contact with Indians you have.  They see them in a different way -- an inferior way.

RUDY

Are they inferior?

EPHRAIM

One only has to look at the facts to see the white race is superior.  We are highly civilized and far more advanced.

RUDY

     (confused)

Oh.

EPHRAIM

I’m speaking in generalities.  I don’t mean you should think less of Wachee or Grandfather.  It’s often the case that the best in one race outshine the least in another.

RUDLOPHUS

I’d be ashamed to let the boys at my new school know I was called Naschon.  I’m afraid they would make fun of me too.

EPHRAIM

(putting his arm around his son)

I understand how you feel.  It was a mistake when you were named Naschon.  Your mother was dead, and I wasn’t there to name you. 

RUDLOPHUS

Why did you name me Rudolphus?

EPHRAIM

It was my grandfather’s name – your great-grandfather.  He died before I was born, but I'd hear men talk about Rudolphus Harding.  He was brave - some said crazy - when hunting a whale.  He would leap right onto the whale to get a deathblow.

RUDY

How did he die?

EPHRAIM

At sea.  His ship was lost off the Normandy coast.

RUDY

Why did you name me after him?

EPHRAIM

     (pondering that question)

I guess because I never knew him.  He was always a mystery to me, an idol I could never touch.  I thought that in naming you after him, maybe I'd be able to know him, in some way, through you.

RUDY

Oh.

EPHRAIM

     (Ephraim smiles at Rudy and

     squeezes his shoulders, 

     Rudy smiles back)

Well, enough for tonight, you go to sleep. 

RUDLOPHUS

Goodnight father.

EPHRAIM

     (getting up to leave)

Goodnight son.

EXTERIOR/ WOMEN'S DRESS SHOP -- DAY

Dora pulls up to the dress shop and steps from her carriage.  Hattie's carriage is also in front.  Dora enters the shop.

INTERIOR/ WOMEN'S DRESS SHOP -- DAY

Hattie is looking at dresses.  An attendant holds a bright red evening gown for her inspection.  Hattie sees Dora and motions her over.

HATTIE

Miss Clifton isn't it?

DORA

Yes. 

HATTIE

What do you think of this one?

DORA

(taken aback by its loudness)

It certainly is bold.

HATTIE

Just the way I like it!  What is life without a little boldness?

DORA

    (Dora smiles, Hattie has a warmth about        her Dora finds appealing)

Yes, it would look good on you.

HATTIE

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage. 

DORA

Thank you.  I have a lot to do before the wedding.

HATTIE

I'm sure you'll be fine.

DORA

(she is hesitant, as though something is on her mind)

Miss Mayfield . . .

HATTIE

Please, call me Hattie.

DORA

     (relaxing a bit)

Hattie . . . I need to talk with you about something . . . it’s personal.  Could we have tea sometime?

HATTIE

Of course, dear.  How about this afternoon at three? 

DORA

Yes.  That would be fine.

HATTIE

Here’s my address.

(she hands her a card)

Come to my house then.

INTERIOR/ HATTIE'S HOUSE -- DAY

Dora is shown into a well-appointed parlor by a male servant.  He motions for her to sit on a small sofa with a low table in front of it.  Another servant enters with a silver tea service and sets it on the table.  Right behind comes Hattie.  She sits down next to Dora.

HATTIE

May I pour you some tea?

DORA

Yes, please.

HATTIE

Cream or sugar?

DORA

Both.  Thank you.

Hattie hands her the cup and pours one for herself.  This done, she settles back.

HATTIE

So, what did you want to talk about my dear?

DORA

     (bowing her head slightly)

Well, as I said, it’s personal.  I've really no one to ask. 

     (she hesitates and Hattie

     patiently waits)

It’s about my wedding night.  You see,

I've never . . . I don't want to disappoint Ephraim.  I don't want to do something wrong.

HATTIE

     (smiling)

My dear child, thank the creator, there isn't much a woman can do wrong in that area.

DORA

But what should I do, I'm so nervous.

HATTIE

It’s not so much what you do, but what you think.

DORA

What do you mean?

Hattie sets down her tea and takes Dora's hands in hers.

HATTIE

Dora, you must understand what a woman is to a man of the sea.  She is his harbor.  She’s the safe haven he longs to sail to when the waters of life become troubled.  When he holds her, he knows he has finally returned to the warmth and safety of home.  If Ephraim feels that when he touches you, you needn't worry about anything else.

DORA

Yes, yes I see what you are saying.

HATTIE

     (changing tone)

Now, there's something else you must understand.  You’re not to lose yourself.

DORA 

     (looks at her inquisitively) 

Lose myself?

HATTIE

Dora, we women are made of the earth, of clay.  Men always try to mold the earth into a form to their liking.  When a man takes a wife, he tries to shape her into his creation.  Ephraim may try, but be like wet clay, Dora -- return again and again to your base element -- to yourself. 

She gives Dora's hand a final pat, lets it go, and resumes drinking her tea.  Dora sits thinking about what she said.

INTERIOR/ EPHRAIM’S NEW HOUSE -- EVENING

The building is almost finished, but there is no furniture in the house yet.  Dora and Ephraim have spread a cloth on the floor and are having a picnic dinner by candlelight.  They have a bottle of wine opened, and are making a toast.

EPHRAIM

     (raising his glass of wine)

To our wedding.

DORA

     (touching her glass to his)

To us.

EPHRAIM

Are you nervous about tomorrow? 

DORA

Not nervous, excited.

EPHRAIM

     (smiling at her)

Yes, me too.

DORA

Ephraim?

EPHRAIM

Yes, Dora.

DORA

     (wanting to be honest with

     him about her ancestry)

There’s something I need to tell you.

EPHRAIM

What is it, Dora?

She hesitates.  She cannot bring herself to tell him.

DORA

It’s just, I love you so much.  I always want you to be happy with me.

EPHRAIM

I am Dora.  I am happy with you! 

DORA

And nothing could ever change that?

EPHRAIM

     (still puzzled at what she means)

No, nothing will ever change that.

DORA

     (she embraces him fiercely)

Oh Ephraim, I love you so.

DINING ROOM EPHRAIM’S HOUSE -- MORNING

Ephraim and Dora are drinking coffee and eating breakfast.  They are in the same room, but now it looks different -- full of furniture and lived-in.  Rudy, now about twelve years old, comes down the stairs in his school uniform.

RUDY

I’m late for class!

    (he grabs a biscuit)

DORA

Good-bye, Rudy!

    (he kisses her on the cheek)

EPHRAIM

Good-bye, Rudy.

(Rudy runs out) 

EPHRAIM

What are you planning to do today?

DORA

Elaine's Dress Shop has a showing of new gowns from Paris.

EPHRAIM

Going to see the latest fashions?

DORA

I love the European designs -- they look so stunning.

EPHRAIM

It’s you who look stunning -- in anything you wear. 

     (he leans over and kisses her)

DORA

Oh, thank you, Ephraim.  I just want something for the new theater season.  I've reserved our box seats again.

EPHRAIM

Good, good . . . but I may not be able to go with you.

DORA

What do you mean?

EPHRAIM

Dora, there’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you.

DORA

     (upset, already guessing

     what he will say)

You mean to go on another voyage?

EPHRAIM

Dora, I’ve been in port over three years.  I need to go, for financial reasons.

DORA

We're doing fine financially!

EPHRAIM

Of course we are, but a whaling voyage takes four or five years to make a profit.

DORA

I knew it was coming . . . still, I can't bear the thought of being without

you.  And Rudy is so tied to you now,

it will crush him.

EPHRAIM

     (quietly, knowing it will

     upset her)

Dora, I know this will be hard for you,

but I plan to take Rudy with me.

DORA

     (her head snaps up)

Take him with you?

EPHRAIM

Rudy is twelve.  He must begin to learn his trade.

DORA

No.  I can't let him go.  Why must I risk the lives of the two people I hold most dear?  For profit?

EPHRAIM

Dora, it’s that "profit" which buys the fine gowns you love to wear, and the tickets to the theater you so love to frequent.

DORA

Then I'll wear rags and stay home.

EPHRAIM

Having tasted this life, you’d find it hard to return to what you knew before.

DORA

(she struggles with the possible truth of that statement)

I don't care.  I can‘t bear the thought of losing Rudy.

EPHRAIM

Dora, you can't protect him forever. Soon, he’ll be a man, and a man needs a

trade.  He’ll need to provide for his wife and family, as I do for you and he.

DORA

Why does his trade have to be whaling?

EPHRAIM

Because it’s my trade.

DORA

I beg of you Ephraim, find another.  You can't go to sea your whole life.  Find another business.

EPHRAIM

No, Dora, I've spent my life learning to be a whaling captain.  I will pass my knowledge on to my son.

DORA

     (reluctantly and quietly)

And you plan to leave soon?

EPHRAIM

Within the month. 

Ephraim moves to hold her as she begins to cry.

INTERIOR/ CABIN BEDROOM -- DAY

Grandfather is ill and laying in bed.  Rudy sits on the edge of the bed.

GRANDFATHER

You’re entering another world now, your father's world.  Your life is changing, but don’t forget the time you’ve spent with me.  Hold it in your heart.

RUDY

(listening intently and nodding)

Yes, Grandfather.

GRANDFATHER

Spirit tells me a test awaits you at sea.  Remember what I’ve taught you

-- you’ll know what to do when this test comes.

Grandfather reaches into a small leather pouch on the bedside table and pulls out something.  It is a necklace made of leather.  A carved wooden whale pendant is attached to it.  Grandfather puts it around the boy's neck.

GRANDFATHER

Your destiny lies with the whales.  Wear this and remember your purpose.

     (Rudy nods)

CABIN FRONT ROOM -- DAY

Dora and Wachee sit at the table.

DORA

What happened Wachee?  He seemed fine when we were here last time.

WACHEE

He got a high fever, and refused to eat.  It’s been over a week, and he still won’t take any food.  He always said he wouldn’t fight when his time came.