AustLit

On the eve of the opening of the local war memorial, John Sturdee is planning his speech for what he is sure will be the defining moment of his political career. The only variable capable of foiling his future in parliament is his brother David, a war veteran haunted by his experiences and prone to drunken displays. That night David seeks refuge from his distress with John's wife and son, who show him sympathy and kindness as he grapples with his trauma and, unbeknownst to them, discreetly commits suicide in their lounge room. On discovering David's death Mary is distraught, but John's only thought is of the damage to his career, so bringing out in painful irony the lip-service he has paid to the spirits of dead soldiers, whose benefits he enjoys without counting the tragic cost.

A play in one act.

Characters

JOHN STURDEE Master grocer.

MARY STURDEE His wife.

LENNY Their eight years old son.

DAVID STURDEE John Sturdee's brother