THE STORIES: Let Me Hear You Whisper. The action is set in the laboratory of the American Biological Association Development for the Advancement of Brain Analysis, where curious experiments involving various mammals are taking place. Helen, a newly engaged cleaning lady, is particularly drawn to a dolphin and is shocked when she learns that, having failed to "talk" as hoped for, it is slated for brain dissection. She makes a desperate attempt to rescue the dolphin from the scientists, incurring first their indignation and then, when the dolphin does indeed "talk" for Helen, their futile pleas that she change her mind about leaving and stay on to help them in their experiments. But the gentle Helen has had enough—both of "Custodial Engineering" and of schemes to change man's relationship to the other creatures with whom the world must be shared. (5 women, or can be divided between men and women.)
The Ladies Should be in Bed. Having invited some old friends for bridge, Elinore provides them with drinks while she attends to her ill and aged mother. But while she is gone their conversation reveals their real focus of interest—the mysterious man who occupies the abandoned building next door and who reputedly engages in sordid sexual doings with neighborhood young people. As the talk grows looser, hidden animosities and frustrations emerge, climaxing in a mindless, even cruel, prank, which, more than words, reveals the true natures of the "ladies." The play raises disturbing questions about those among us who are so quick to pass judgment on the actions of others. (6 women.)
