Close The Book

by Susan Glaspell

Genre: Comedy, Drama
Setting: America
Format of Original Source: Play
Recommended Adaptation Length:

Candidate for Adaptation? Promising

EXCERPT:

PEYTON

Were any of the family found in the charred remains?

SENATOR BYRD

The family, I believe, escaped.

MRS. BYRD

But no thanks to old man Harrison.

JHANSI

No!–I’m sure grandfather meant them to burn. [Seizing book.] I wonder if grandfather’s protest is recorded in this book!

MRS. BYRD

That book does not emphasize unfortunate occurrences.

MRS. ROOT

And how right it is! One should think only of the good in human nature.

PEYTON

[Looking with JHANSI.] What is this fine print at the bottom of the page?

MRS. BYRD

[Hastily.] That is not important.

SENATOR BYRD

It is in fine print because it is not important.

PEYTON

One of the descendants of Peter Byrd. [To JHANSI.] The leg at Bull Run, you know. He–

MRS. ROOT

Peyton, remember that you are in your own house.

PEYTON

“Unfaithful to the high office of treasurer of the Baxter County Cemetery Association.”

JHANSI

[Gasping, then beaming.] Why–why!–a grave robber! Was he a near relative?

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