Please note – this script is the © Copyright of John D Slater/Bijou Productions 2026 and is only made available for reading purposes. It may not be performed in part or whole without licence from the copyright holder. Nor must any part of it be used for any other purpose, including recording, quoting or referencing, without permission of the copyright holder. bijou.productions@gmail.com
“A Girl & A Gansey” – a musical play inspired by Stephen Carvill’s “Gansey Girl” sculpture at Bridlington Harbour.
Written by John D Slater. Musical associate – Rebecca Roe.
The play is a work of pure fiction, though events created could have been entirely possible. The historical facts employed are all verified.
Cast in no particular order.
Narrator – a modern day character – (Gives prologue.)
Sarah Ellen Bloomfield – a young Bridlington woman. (Gansey Girl)
Flo Calland – a young Bridlington woman.
Edna Denton – a young Bridlington woman
Mabel Fenton – a young Bridlington woman
Rose Bloomfield – Sarah’s mother.
Matty Bloomfield – Sarah’s father.
Jacob Dinsdale – Sarah’s son – playing age 6
Thomas Dinsdale – a young fisherman.
Ginny Dinsdale – Thomas’s mother.
Sam White – an older fisherman.
Frank Mac – a young fisherman.
Arthur Arnold – a young fisherman.
Gran – Sarah’s grandmother.
Bill/Billy Porrit – an insurance man/boat owner.
Harbour Master – probably an older man.
Amos – an older fisherman.
Plus an assortment of singers/dancers – all ages above 16.
Scene One – Bridlington Harbour 1895 – North Pier.
(The open stage area, is in darkness – there are sounds of seagulls – then waves crashing, then sounds of boxes being dropped and men’s voices “Right Horace – take it up.” “Many more Bob?” “That’s the last.” – lights come up centre stage, pool of light finds Sarah, a young girl, seated on a packing case – she is knitting. DSL of the acting area enters Narrator in modern attire – he is looking towards the girl. There could gentle background ambient music to this. After a moment or two he turns and speaks to the audience.)
Narrator; Behold – our Gansey Girl – when she’s not gutting fish or looking after bairns, here she sits, hour after hour; knitting – always knitting – knitting and waiting. And looking out to sea, hoping that the next boat coming into the harbour will be carrying her man home to her.
Looking and knitting – her needles clicking and clacking –
and creating – creating a new gansey for the one she loves.
But will he ever wear it?
Will he, as he has done many times before, jump out of that boat – dash up to her and swing her round and round – and she’ll be laughing and shouting – “Put me down Thomas Dinsdale – put me down!” but loving it all the same? Will that longed for moment ever arrive?
Well – that’s anybody’s guess – but she keeps telling herself that he will come home – though she knows full well – in her heart, that she may have seen him for the last time. That’s what it’s like when you’re the wife of a fisherman. (To her) And your heart is full of love – isn’t it? (Turns.) Oh she can’t hear me – or see me, for that matter. She is in another time – another century – another era, almost another world and yet she has as much to say now, as she did way back then. Perhaps she’ll tell you something when you go to see her on Bridlington Harbour’s North pier, just as thousands of other people have done over the years; she’s probably in hundreds & hundreds of selfies – maybe thousands & thousands and she doesn’t even know it………But now – as our story begins – let’s see her live again –
A Girl And A Gansey.
(Narrator stands motionless; gazes at her. Music begins. She jumps off the box – puts down knitting – looks around her. She walks a little – gives her backside a good rubbing; she adjusts shawl – puts a wisp of hair in place. Walks forward – gazes this way and that. She sings. Exit Narrator.)
Song – “Home From Sea”
Sarah; Home from sea – home from sea.
Soon my love’s – coming back to me.
Sometime soon – sometime when
My life with him – will begin again.
While he’s away – the days are long
All of my heart – to him belongs.
And far from home – when he’s at sea
If that sea claimed him – what would life be?
Home from sea – home from sea.
Is my love – coming back to me?
.
(Enter other young women, singing.)
Chorus; Home from sea – home from sea.
Soon my love’s – coming back to me.
Sometime soon – sometime when
My life with him – will begin again.
While he’s away – the days are long
All of my heart – to him belongs.
And far from home – when he’s at sea
If that sea claimed him – what would life be?
Home from sea – home from sea.
Is my love – coming back to me?
Sarah; Will my loved one – be coming back to me?
Or will he be – lost at sea?
(Music continues in background. All but Flo, Edna& Mabel drift away humming the refrain. Sarah sits on the case once again and resumes her knitting. A distant ghostly bell rings now and again. The three girls approach Sarah.)
Flo; They should have been back long ago.
Edna; They shouldn’t have gone without a skipper.
Mabel; Men – what are they like?
Sarah; They’ll be back – I know it; they’ll be back.
Edna; Frank’s our only bread winner – my dad can’t work any more since he got hurt.
Sarah; My dad doesn’t do much. (Sighs.) But he does what he can.
Flo; Hey – listen – it’s the big dance this Saturday – they’ve got to be back for then.
Sarah; I met Tommy at that dance – many years ago, of course.
Edna; It can’t be that long ago, Sarah – remember – I was there. Anyway, your eldest can only be six.
Sarah; Six next birthday. He misses his da when he goes away.
Flo; They’re nearly always back for the big dance though – even if they’ve stopped off to sell their catch somewhere or they’re chasing herrings. Yes, they’ll be back for the dance.
Mabel; Making themselves a nuisance as usual.
Flo&Edna; Give over, Mabel.
Sarah; When I first met Tommy at that dance I could have only been fifteen. We were wed a year later.
Edna; Yes – we know all about that too – don’t we? (They giggle.)
Sarah; That’s enough you lot.
Flo; Why – are we making you blush?
Sarah; No you’re not making me blush – silly – I was just thinking about those dances.
(Enter Rose – an older women – she approaches Sarah – the other three drift away and exit.)
Rose; Never mind thinking about them dances, it’s home you need to be. Come on luvvie – let’s be having you.
Sarah; Just a few more minutes mam.
Rose; Minutes! It’s hours you spend here, waiting for that Tommy of yours.
Sarah; I know – but……
Rose; But nothing – the bairns need you. Come on!
Sarah; They’re not still up are they?
Rose; No – they’re not still up – but its not that long since I put ‘em down.
Sarah; Ta mam. Perhaps just a little while longer – they could be here soon.
Rose; Listen – the tides on the ebb, you might as well come home. If the boat’s coming back – it won’t be on the ebb – or they’ll have some tough rowing, ‘cause with hardly breath of a breeze there’ll be no use in the sails.
Sarah; How do you mean, mam – if the boat’s coming back?
Rose; I meant if it’s coming back tonight – silly.
Sarah; But they sometimes come back in the dark.
Rose; Yes – and they sometimes don’t. And there’s fog about – didn’t you hear the bell. Come on – let’s get some hot food down you.
Sarah; I suppose you’re right.
Rose; I know I’m right – come on.
Sarah; Tommy’ll come home – won’t he mam?
Rose; Yes my love – he’ll come home.
Sarah; We was just talking about the time that Thomas and me met. Do you remember?
Rose; Do I remember – I’ll say I remember – you never shut
up about him for weeks – him and his blessed dancin’ .
Sarah; But he was a lovely dancer, back then mam – he’s still pretty good.
Rose; Aye – if you say so; come on – let’s be having you.
(Rose shaking her head – exits. Sarah humming a tune dances and exits.Harbourmaster and Amos enter from another point.)
HM; And you say they were twelve miles out from Flamborough when you last saw them?
Amos; Yes harbourmaster – we made for home when the fog started coming down – but The Sarah Ellen was hanging back – I think they thought they were onto a decent haul.
HM; Well – I don’t suppose you can blame them – they’ll have more cash in their pockets for the big dance. But not for me and thee Amos.
Amos; Aye – those were the days – long gone now.
HM; They went out without a proper skipper, you know! I told Billy I didn’t like it – but he said they wouldn’t be going out far and they knew the boat.
Amos; Young ‘uns – they think they know everything.
HM; They don’t know owt.
Amos; They don’t know nowt!
(They shake their heads shrug their shoulders. Music.)
Song; “They Don’t Know Owt – They Don’t Know etc”
HM;They don’t know owt – (Amos) they don’t know nowt
Both: Not like we did long ago –
But they think they do – and that’s a fact.
Judging by the way they act
They don’t know more than my big toe
My big toe – my big toe.
(Continued on next page.)
We was gutting fish – at the age of four.
Helping keep the wolf – from the door
But they wanted more and more and more.
` Back in the days – of long ago.
The only knowledge – in our head
Came from the school – of gutting shed
Lessons hard – it must be said – back in days – of long ago.
HM; They don’t know owt – (Amos) they don’t know nowt
Both: Not like we did long ago.
But they think they do – and that’s a fact
Judging by the way they act.
They don’t know more than – my big toe
My big toe – my big toe.
Mending nets – by the age of six
Fingers raw – thumbs all pricked
From them old needles sticks.
Back in the days of – long ago.
Life was hard – life was tough
Sometimes life was pretty rough
We had to grow up – soon enough
Back in the days of – long ago.
HM; They don’t know owt – (Amos) they don’t know nowt
Both: Not like we did long ago.
But they think they do – and that’s a fact.
Judging by the way they act
They don’t know more than – my big toe
My big toe – my big toe.
They don’t know more than – my big toe
My big toe – my big toe. My big toe – my big toe.
(Spoken as HB & Amos Exit)I bet mine’s bigger than yourn – bet is isn’t – bet it is – bet it isn’t – bet it is……
(Blackout. Play off music.)
Scene Two – the Bloomfield’s kitchen 15 minutes later – same day.
(A kitchen table and four odd chairs. There is also a trestle on which stands a gas ring flickering – a cooking pot is on it. Rose enters takes off her shawl places it over back of chair, puts on an apron, takes a wooden spoon and stirs a cooking pot – takes a taste. Keeping her attention on the pot – then ladling some out onto a dish which she casually puts on table – then returns to the pot.)
Rose; (Without looking behind her.) Get that down you – I’ll join you in a jiffy. (She stirs pot again – fills another dish, bringing it to the table. Looks about her) Now where’s she got do? (She walks forward a few steps.) Sarah! Sarah! She was walking right behind me not five minutes ago. Come on lass this is going to get cold. If she’s gone back to that harbour – she’ll get the length of my tongue.
(Enter Sarah – who also takes shawl off as she enters.)
Rose; And about time too – sit you down.
(Sarah sits. Rose pours some ale from a stone jug into a tankard, and hands it to Sarah. She sips and grimaces.)
Sarah;I wont ever get used to the taste of ale.
Rose; It’s a pity men don’t. (Gets water jug) Splash of water?
Sarah; A few splashes. (Mam obliges.)
Rose; There’ll be nowt left in it to warm you up.
Sarah; There’ll be enough. (She drinks and grimaces again. Takes a spoonful of food.) Is da not home yet?
(Rose sits down and begins to eat.)
Rose; In and out like a miser’s wallet – a sup of tea – some bread and dripping and he was off. He reckons the best time to sell his pickled herrings round the pubs, is when men have had their first couple of jugs of ale; pickled herrings give them a thirst for more ale. So the publicans welcome him – and pop him a few bob as well.
Sarah; They’re not his pickled herrings, mam – they’re yours – you make them.
Rose; Yes – but he gets the fish and he sells them – I’m just the cook.
Sarah; Yes and a good one too – making as good a job as you do out of the ‘chuck’-aways’ from the catch. Da only just manages to get ‘em before the seagulls do.
Rose; But your Tommy sneaks us a few decent ones now and
again. But it gives your da something to occupy himself
with; he’ll never get on a crew again, not after he did his hand.
Sarah; It wasn’t his fault, it was the broken winch that the owners
were too mean to fix.
Rose; That’s as maybe – but at least they let him have runt herrings.
Sarah They should be paying him a pension.
Rose; Well they’re not – so that’s the end of it.
(They both eat in silence. A sound of a child crying.)
Sarah; Jacob! Better go to him before he wakes our Sally.
Rose; No – you sit theer and eat your supper – I’ll see to him.
(Rose gets up from her seat and moves to another acting area. The bedroom area is illuminated as the light kitchen goes down.)
Scene Three – The bedroom – same evening.
(There is a bed – a toddler in it.)
Rose; (Sitting on the edge of the bed.) Now what’s troubling my little man?
Jacob; Where’s me mammy?
Rose; Your mammy’s having her supper – and that’s where she’s going to stay my fine fellow, so just settle yourself down.
Jacob; Is me da home?
Rose; No but he will be anytime soon, if you get yourself off to sleep.
Jacob; Sing me a song nanna.
Rose; Alright! Which one would you like?
Jacob; Three jolly sailors went to sea.
Rose; Oh – you like that one do you?
Jacob; My da sings it to me.
Rose; I hope he doesn’t sing the fishermen’s version.
Jacob; What’s a fishermen’s ‘bershun’ nanna?
Rose; Never you mind. Just get yourself under them blankets – sharp now.
(Rose covers him up further – she sings.)
Rose; (Sings.)Three jolly sailors went to sea.
In the uniforms of the king’s navy.
Happy as three men ever could be.
Went three jolly sailors.
(Lights fade. Song is taken up by crew in next scene. )
Scene Four – aboard a fishing boat – at about the same time.
(Tight illumination. A simple boat representation. Created by two pieces of, hinged, 8×4 hardboard shaped as a stern. Various ropes hang over the side which is painted as wooden planks. Fog machine hidden. Four crew are in position – Arthur, Frank, Tom, & Sam – each is facing different ways – one facing the prow holding a telescope – one facing aft holding mast ropes and pulley attached to it; mast made of a painted cardboard carpet roll centre – draped sail. The other two are leaning on the sides holding hanks of rope; there are handles inside of the hull to grab. They sing.)
Song – “Three Jolly Sailors Went To Sea”
Three jolly sailors went to sea.
In the uniforms of the king’s navy.
Happy as three men ever could be.
Went three jolly sailors.
Three jolly sailors sailed away.
Saying they’d be back some day.
With their pockets full of pay.
Were three jolly sailors
Three jolly sailors sailed afar.
Timbuctoo to Panama.
Each with a girl on his knee in a bar.
Sat three jolly sailors.
(Continued on next page.)
Three jolly sailors kissed those girls.
Kissed their lips and kissed their pearls.
They even kissed their curly curls.
Did those jolly sailors.
Three jolly sailors went to bed.
Woke next day with a thumping head.
Nine months later they were wed.
Were three jolly sailors.
Three jolly sailors – now old men.
Talk of what they did back then.
But they’d do it all again.
Would those jolly sailors.
Three jolly sailors went to sea.
In the uniforms of the king’s navy.
Happy as three men ever could be.
Went three jolly sailors.
Went three jolly sailors.
Went three jolly sailors.
(Music is played quietly. Thomas looks through telescope.)
Arthur; What do you reckon Tommy?
Thomas; It’s hard to tell – we could be anywhere in this fog.
Sam; They shouldn’t have sent us out on our own without a skipper.
Arthur; That’s bosses for you – isn’t it?
Thomas; You could have passed up on coming out with us.
Arthur; What – and lose a trip’s pay?
Thomas; Well there you are then – Bill didn’t force you to come.
Frank; Why couldn’t they have given the skipper another day to get well? It was mostly self inflicted anyway – he just got drunk and picked a fight – that’s all.
Sam; It’s his punishment – don’t you see – keeping him land- side?
Thomas; Anyway Sam – you should be getting your ticket soon.
Sam; Yes but the skipper has a lot more experience – he would have known what to do.
Thomas; Oh is that a fact; he’s got some way of making the wind
blow that we don’t know about – has he?
Sam; No – he hasn’t but he would know what to do.
Thomas; Look, I’m as fed up hanging about here as you are and if we don’t be doing, we’ll miss the big dance.
Sam; And we don’t want to miss that do we – you and your lass showing us all up with you classy steps.
Thomas; Give over – we just enjoy ourselves – that’s all.
Frank; And in the meantime Mr. Twinkle-toes?
Thomas; We do what we always do when this happens – we either sit tight and wait for the fog to clear and a decent breeze or get busy with the oars.
Frank; And row where to?
Thomas; Shore of course
Frank; Which shore?
Thomas; Any shore – mutton-head.
Sam; Tahiti would be nice!
(They all laugh.)
(Ten secs 90% black out – there is a loud crash – the boat begins to lurch around – they all shout at once – the mast falls down – they fall down – the boat continues to rock – more crashing sfx. DBO – crew exit. Clear boat. Set up for next scene. Enter narrator.)
Narrator; (Entering.) So now you know who our girl and a gansey is waiting for – but is her Thomas going to be coming home – that’s the question? Let’s go back to the time they met seven years earlier – to the monthly – Bridlington Dance.
Scene Five – A dance at The Assembly Rooms seven years earlier.
(There is the sound of musicians tuning up. Voice off calls – “Ladies and gentlemen – please take you partners for “The Bridlington Reel.” The dancers form a line and music begins – they dance. When the dance is over people go into groups – conversations begin. Frank ,Arthur and Thomas enter after dance – they are holding/drinking glasses. Flo, Edna and Mabel enter from another direction – also holding glasses. Song “The Bridlington Dance”. This song is sung by the two groups independent of each other.)
Song “At The Bridlington Dance”
Boys; Three boys – looking for a girl –
pretty and dainty and sweet.
We wonder if she will be here – and if we’ll get to meet.
Girls; Three girls – looking for a boy –
looking for a big romance.
We wonder if he will be here –
at the Bridlington dance.
(Continued on next page.)
Edna; The boy I’ve dreamed about will be –
outstanding from the rest.
Flo; I’ll know the one I’m looking for –
will be the very best dressed.
Mabel; I’m sure the one that I will meet –
is bound to be a blinking pest.
Girls; But where-ever you are boys – make it soon –
we’re ready to be impressed.
Boys/Girls; Three likely boys/girls –
looking for three likely boys/girls –
please be here tonight.
Let the moment be right –
Come on – and take a chance – we won’t bite.
Boys/Girls; Three likely boys/girls –
looking for three likely boys/girls –
come and be the one for me.
But we say this every time –
and every time – there’s another time
But we were told by grandma –
there’s plenty of fish in the sea.
Girls; Three girls – looking for a boy –
preferably big and strong.
One who wouldn’t think to try to –
string an innocent girl along
Boys; Three boys – looking for a girl –
sweet, serene and sublime.
And not one to give a chap – a blooming hard time.
Frank; The one I’ve dreamed about will be –
a beauty I can display.
Arthur; I’ll know the one I’m looking for – will never, ever stray.
Thomas; I’m sure the one that I will meet –
will whisk my heart away
(Continued on next page.)
Boys; But where-ever you are girls – won’t you try –
to be here today.
Boys; Three boys – looking for a girl –
pretty and dainty and sweet.
We wonder if she will be here – and if we’ll get to meet.
Girls; Three girls – looking for a boy –
looking for a big romance.
We wonder if he will be here –
at the Bridlington dance.
Boys/ Girls; Yes we wonder – if they’re – going to be here.
At that – wonderful – glorious – Bridlington – dance.
Thomas; (After song – to Frank & Arthur.) I don’t see Sarah anywhere.
Arthur; So what – there’s plenty of other young lovelies for us to choose from.
Frank; I thought you were meant to be courting Hetty Weatherill.
Arthur; I am.
Thomas; Won’t she be here?
Arthur; No – she’s working in her granny’s shop tonight. So I’m a free man.
Thomas; You make courting sound like being in prison.
Arthur; Not quite Tommy boy – that’s what marriage is.
Thomas; Don’t you want to marry Hetty?
Arthur; Not if I can help it.
Thomas; So why are you courting her, then?
Arthur; She’s knitting a gansey for me.
Thomas; You crafty devil.
Frank; Yes – fancy courting a girl just get her to knit a gansey for you.
(Sarah enters and joins Edna, Mabel and Flo.)
Thomas; Look – there’s Sarah now – let’s go over and chat with them.
Arthur; So that’ll mean that you want me and Frank to take care of the others.
Thomas; That’s the general idea.
Arthur; Oh – I don’t know about that – what do you say Frank?
Frank; I quite fancy Sarah myself.
Thomas; No you do not Frank – your too young for her.
Frank; And you’re the right age I suppose.
Thomas; I thought we were mates.
(The boys conversation continues quietly – occasional glancing at the girls.)
Edna; We thought you weren’t coming.
Sarah; Da insisted on me walking along with him.
Flo; But it’s not as if you’re miles away.
Sarah; It is miles away when we’ve got to come by way of half a dozen pubs, so da can sell his pickled herrings.
Edna; Them lads keep looking across at us – do you know ‘em?
Flo; The youngest is Frank Selby – I remember him from infant school.
Mabel; Oh – he hasn’t changed much then!
(They laugh and continue to chat quietly. The boys conversation is now heard.)
Arthur; I wonder what they’re laughing at.
Frank; Probably you in that jacket that’s too big for you.
Thomas; She looks gorgeous when she laughs.
Arthur; Who – the queen?
Thomas; Fool! Sarah – I’m going to ask her for the next dance.
(Voice off “Ladies and gentlemen – please take your partners for a waltz.” Thomas Walks over to Sarah – elbowing another boy out of the way as he goes. Other’s pair up.)
Thomas; (Bowing.) Will you have this dance with me Sarah – please, that is?
Sarah; (Turning to her pals.) Do you think I can trust him?
Edna; Oh – I don’t know about that.
(Edna & Flo look at each other & grin. Mabel shakes head.)
Both; Yea!!
(The music begins couples start to waltz. Thomas and Sarah dance – he sings to her. Sarah is absorbed in the dance, as if only half hearing him – only giving him an occasional smile.)
Song; When We Dance.
Thomas; It’s good to be dancing with you –
so delightful, in every way
It’s good to be dancing with you –
you’re quite splendid – may I say!
Really special to me – you are magic – to hold
Things can happen – while you dance –
so I’m told.
Maybe it’s going to happen today –
when we dance – when we dance.
Won’t you save ev’ry dance, is my plea –
just for me – just for me
We make perfect partners I know –
you’ll agree – you’ll agree.
In step with each other – oh how we combine.
A beautiful rhythm – in this heart of mine –
I can tell – at a glance.
What folk say is true –
things can happen – when we dance.
To me and to you.
(Music continues as they waltz, then back to lib.)
Things can happen – when we dance.
Things can happen – when we dance.
(After dance everyone applauds and make there way back to their groups.)
Sarah; Thank you for the dance. (She makes to go back to her friends.)
Thomas; Please don’t go.
Sarah; But I’m with my friends.
Thomas; So am I – but I’d much rather be with you.
Sarah; Would you? Well perhaps we’ll have another dance later. You’re a gradely dancer – I’ll grant you that.
Thomas; Does that mean you’ll have every dance with me?
Sarah; We’ll have to see about that.
Thomas; (Taking her arm.) Won’t you take a stroll with me?
Sarah; Mmmm – just a stroll! (Shrugs her shoulders. ) Ok.
(The music continues. Lights dim. Sarah & Thomas move downstage – other people drift slowly away. The scene is changed as they are strolling slowly DR to DL This has to be well timed.)
Sarah; (Halting.) Excuse me but where are we going?
Thomas; To the harbour – I want to show you something.
Sarah; We’re taking this stroll to the harbour for you to show me something and I don’t even know your name. I must be potty.
Thomas; It’s Thomas Dinsdale and you’re not in the least potty.
Sarah; If you say so Thomas Dinsdale.
(They stroll a little further into now illuminated, newly set central acting area.)
Scene Six – Later that evening Bridlington Harbour – North Pier.
Sarah; Well – we’re here, Thomas Dinsdale – what is it you wanted to show me?
Thomas; Over there – fourth boat along – the new one.
Sarah; Yes – I see the new boat! (Pause) Is that it?
Thomas; It’s got a name.
Sarah; Most boats do have a name (Sarah steps forward a little and peers.) ……..Oh – I see now – Sarah Ellen!
Thomas; It’s named after you.
Sarah; Of course it isn’t named after me – there are hundreds of girls who are called Sarah Ellen.
Thomas; Are there? I’ve never noticed.
(Sarah guffaws.)
Thomas; But – it really is named after you – because I asked for it to be named that way.
Sarah; You’re kidding me – why should anyone name their boat Sarah Ellen just because you asked them to?
Thomas; Because the boat’s owner is my Uncle Billy. He’s got three fishing cobles altogether and each one of them has a girl’s name.
Sarah; You are well connected – aren’t you?
Thomas; He’s not my uncle really – I just call him that – he’s
my mam’s boyfriend and he takes us lot under his wing.
Sarah; Doesn’t your da mind?
Thomas; He’s been gone for years.
Sarah; Oh – I’m sorry!
Thomas; Don’t be sorry – he’s not dead – well – not as far as we know; he took off after my little sister was born. Last we heard of him he was in Australia somewhere.
Sarah; And so your – Uncle Billy – kind of takes care of you.
Thomas; He does – and he’s not short of a bob or two. He makes money from the fishing and he even has an insurance round as well. So you can imagine can’t you?
Sarah; Our insurance man is called Bill – well – I call him Mr. Porrit.
Thomas; That’s the man – my, sort of, uncle – William Porrit.
Sarah; Oh!
Thomas; (Laughs.) Oh! What does that mean?
Sarah; (Cagey.) Nothing really – just Oh!
Thomas; (Smiling.) I think you may have been going to say “Oh! – he’s a bit of a flirt.”
Sarah; Well…..I.. erm…..
Thomas; It’s all right – I know he’s a bit of a flirt – mam knows he’s a
bit of a flirt as well. But it doesn’t seem to bother her and he’s been very kind to us.
Sarah; Well yes – he is a bit of a flirt alright!
Thomas; But there’s no harm in him – he’s all talk.
Sarah; I’m very glad to hear it.
Thomas; And anyway – he did agree to the boat being called Sarah Ellen.
Sarah; I suppose so – let’s just hope he didn’t have an ulterior motive.
Thomas; What – like I have?
Sarah; (Smiling) Good gracious me – have you got an ulterior motive, Thomas Dinsdale?
Thomas; Oh Sarah, not ulterior – and motive sounds a bit heavy – but I did want to impress you.
Sarah; Why would you want to impress me? I didn’t even know you knew me.
Thomas; Well I don’t exactly know you – I’ve seen you at chapel.
Sarah; There are hundreds of people go to chapel.
Thomas; I was christened there.
Sarah; Me too. But you still haven’t told me why you wanted to impress me.
Thomas; (Shyly.) Oh – because you’re beautiful and adorable
and……… you sing nicely.
Sarah; (Mischievously.) OK – so I’m beautiful and adorable – but what makes you think that I can sing nicely?
Thomas; Because I sat behind you a few times at chapel.
Sarah; (Playfully.) Now just you listen here young man – I’m not sure that’s quite proper.
Thomas; But – I have to sit somewhere – why not behind you?
Sarah; Alright – I forgive you. (Smiling.) But do you really think I sing nicely?
Thomas; I think you do everything nicely, Sarah.
Sarah; You haven’t seen me gutting fish.
Thomas; Yes – I’ve even seen you gutting fish.
Sarah; Have you been following me?
Thomas; Certainly not.
Sarah; (Mischievously.) Oh – and why not – am I not worth being followed? (Thomas looks bewildered – Sarah bursts out laughing.)
Sarah; (Playfully.) That caught you didn’t it – Mr Boat-namer? And another thing – how did you know my name was Sarah Ellen?
Thomas; I have a tongue in my head – I asked people.
Sarah; You have been busy – haven’t you?
Thomas; Do you mind?
Sarah; I won’t have to – will I?
Thomas; I wondered if…. Erm – that is ……..Well you know ……
Sarah; What are you babbling on about?
Thomas; Sarah – would you knit a gansey for me?
Sarah; Knit a gansey for you? Now that is a big ask – from someone I’ve only just met.
Thomas; Sorry – it was a bit cheeky.
Sarah; (Laughing.) Just a bit. Anyway – what makes you think I can knit a gansey?
Thomas; I thought all girls could.
Sarah; Is that so? Mmmm – well – I’ll have to give it some thought.
Thomas; Go on Sarah – be my gansey girl!
Sarah; (Jokingly.) What an offer, Mr Boat-namer – you quite turn a young girl’s head – my knitting needles can hardly wait.
Thomas; Right then.
(Lifting her onto a packing case, on one knee, he sings.)
Song “Be My Gansey Girl”
Thomas: Sarah – Sarah – won’t you be my gansey girl?
Won’t you be my gansey girl? Be my gansey girl?
Sarah – Sarah – won’t you be my gansey girl?
I’d do anything for you – by way of return.
I’d even give you – all the money I earn.
To be your gansey guy – is what I yearn.
Won’t you be my gansey girl?
Sarah – Sarah – won’t you be my gansey girl?
Be my gansey girl? Be my gansey girl?
Sarah – Sarah – won’t you be my gansey girl?
If you knit me a gansey – I’ll wear it with pride.
The colour I’ll leave – for you to decide.
I’ll wear it for ever – with you by my side
Won’t you be my gansey girl?
(Thomas dance – come back to lib at:-)
If you knit me a gansey – I’ll wear it with pride.
The colour I’ll leave – for you to decide.
I’ll wear it for ever – with you by my side
Won’t you be my gansey girl?
And I will be your gansey guy.
And you’ll be my – gan-sey – girl?
Sarah; (Spoken) All this for a jumper?
(Possible tableau finish with Sarah on packing case – Thomas on one knee holding her hands. Blackout. Music continues for scene change. Thomas & Sarah exit in black- out. Very quick change for Sarah. )
Scene Seven – the followingweek at Sarah’s gran’s cottage.
(A cottage living room. There is a low cupboard – a fireplace, a rocking chair, a stool. picture and other assorted bits. Gran enters carrying a cup of tea – tastes from it – looks over her shoulder – goes to a shelf – pulls out a bottle from behind a box – puts a drop in the cup of tea; tastes it again – puts in another drop, hides the bottle and then is seated at the rocking chair – rocking and humming a tune as she rocks.)
Sarah; (Voice off) Hello Gran it’s only me!
Gran; Come your way in luvie – I’m in the front room.
(Enter Sarah – different shawl and head scarf/hat. Carrying a basket. She kisses Gran.)
Gran; Sit you down then and let’s have a look at you.
(Sarah sits on a stool.)
Gran; You’re looking far too grown-up for my likings.
Sarah; (Laughing.) That’s because I am gown up Gran.
Gran; (Chuckling.) I know you are luvie – I’m just joshing you.
Sarah; (Indicating basket.) Mam’s sent you some pickled herrings and a jar of jam.
Gran; Thank her for me. I suppose your Da’s still going about selling ‘em – his pickled herrings that is?
Sarah; He is Gran.
Gran; It was a disgrace what happened to your Da – them rotten boat owners – sending our lads out in stuff not fit for a
chap’s safety.
Sarah; They said it was an accident.
Gran; I’m very well aware of what they said – still I suppose he was better off than his Da. At least my son is still alive. Don’t you go getting yourself tangled up with any fishermen, our Sarah.
Sarah; There isn’t a great deal of choice Gran – we don’t get that many toffs around Bridlington – do we?
Gran; Don’t you believe it – they don’t all go to Scarborough – though it’s mostly them as comes from Hull that fetches up here for their holidays. That’s mainly on account of the railways. At one time out-of-towners coming from Hull could only get as far as Brid on the train – so that’s what we got. But them as fetched up in Scarborough travelled on the York line. More posher in York than Hull; your grandpa helped build them railways, you know. That’s how I met him – when the line came to Brid.
Sarah; I never knew that Gran.
Gran; Oh – there’s plenty you don’t know Sarah, luvie; and it was daftest day’s work he ever did, leaving t’trains; he could have still been alive if he’d stuck wi’ t’trains.
Sarah; Do you miss him?
Gran; Strangely enough, I do – though he’s been gone years – but yes, I do still miss him – daft beggar – chucking up a good job on t’trains to go messing about in boats. Mind you, there was good money to be had in fishing – I won’t deny it.
Sarah; There still is Gran – people like their fish and chips.
Gran; I suppose so – but folk wanting their fish and chips took the lives of many of our lads. I don’t suppose they ever thought of that. But strangely enough, it wasn’t that what took my William – it was going to help t’other lads in The Great Gale of seventy one; aye – that’s where he copped it. There’s never been one like it since. It was bad was that storm – I can tell you.
Sarah; I have heard about it – not much, it’s true. But I didn’t know that was what happened to grandda’.
Gran; Well, what’s done is done I suppose and there’s no use goin’ a rakin’ up the past. It’ll not bring him back. Men and their boats – but that’s men I suppose. Near thirty ships were lost that night. And God only knows how many killed and injured.
Sarah; What ship was granda’ on?
Gran; Like I said – he was in one of the boats that went to their rescue; darned fool-hardy that was – not only him – others as well. (Smiling) Mind you, it was brave of ‘em to do
what they did. Daft – but brave!
Sarah; Well – there you are then – you should be proud of him.
Gran; Aye – there I am then! And I was proud of him…………. (Ponders) But it was a daft thing to do – all the same.
(Silence for a few seconds as Gran sips more from the cup and rocks in her chair.)
Sarah; Gran!
Gran; Yes luvie.
Sarah; Will you teach me how to knit a gansey?
Gran; What for do you want to learn how to knit a gansey? They’s for chaps.
Sarah; Yes I know that gran – it’s just that – I thought it would be useful for me to learn how.
Gran; (Suspicious.) Oh yes – you did, did you? Have you not
asked your ma?
Sarah; No – she’s always busy with the herrings an’ all that and I thought you might – erm….
Gran; Sarah Ellen Bloomfield – it’s your gran you’re talking to – she’s been around the garden a few times and she’s known you from being a dot; you’re up to something – I can tell.
Sarah; No Gran – I’m not up to anything – I promise.
Gran; (Pulling her lower eyelid down.) Do you see any green here?
Sarah; I don’t know what you mean Gran.
Gran; Eee lass – I can read you like a book – come on let’s be having it.
Sarah; Let’s be having what Gran?
Gran; There’s a chap behind this – isn’t there?
Sarah; What makes you think there’s a chap behind it Gran?
Gran; (Chuckling.) Will you listen to her – sitting there, looking as if butter wouldn’t melt in her mouth. (Mimicking.) What makes you think there’s a chap behind it Gran?
Sarah; (Abashed) Oh Gran….
Gran; Yes – oh Gran; so come on then – out with it – let’s be having it.
Sarah; But…..
Gran; It’s a chap – isn’t it?
Sarah; Well sort of…..
Gran; Sort of!! Sort of!! Is it a chap or isn’t it? Or perhaps it’s a giraffe your thinking of knitting a gansey for.
Sarah; (Giggling.) No it’s not Gran – if you must know – it is for a… …….. chap.
Gran; There now! That wasn’t too difficult – was it? So – does this ‘ere ….. chap have a name?
Sarah; Thomas.
Gran; Thomas! Thomas what?
(Sarah hesitates.)
Gran; Honestly our Sarah – getting information out of you is like pulling teeth.
Sarah; Thomas Dinsdale.
Gran; Dinsdale – Dinsdale – I know a few Dinsdales. Where do they live?
Sarah; I don’t know.
Gran; What’s his mam’s first name?
Sarah; I don’t know Gran.
Gran; What’s his dad’s name then?
Sarah; I don’t know that either.
Gran; You don’t know much for a lass who wants to knit a gansey for a chap – do you?
Sarah; It was just an idea.
Gran; Girls and their ideas.
Sarah; You were a girl once Gran.
Gran; Don’t remind me! (Thinks) Wait a minute – I do know some Dinsdales with a lad – I think his mother might be Ginny Dinsdale – Cunliffe as was – yes – she had a lad and a lass. Did he not mention his dad?
Sarah; He said his dad deserted them when his little sister was born.
Gran; Yes, by gum, I do know the family now; he were a rotter were his dad – owed money all over the place. He had to make himself scarce.
Sarah; But he said he has a kind of an uncle what looks after them.
Gran; Yes, Billy Porritt – the insurance man! Oh yes – he’s some kind if an uncle alright.
Sarah; What does that mean?
Gran; It means, Sarah Ellen – you need to keep away from that family – they’re a bad lot.
Sarah; I know his uncle is a bit of a flirt – but Thomas says there’s no harm in him.
Gran; Does he now? Perhaps he’s like his so-called uncle.
Sarah; That’s not fair Gran – Thomas is a lovely boy.
Gran; And what makes him so lovely?
Sarah; Well – he’s polite and well mannered and thoughtful and kind.
Gran; Oh – he’s kind is he – how kind?
Sarah; Well – for one – he got his uncle to name a boat after me.
Gran; Oh – that’s a nice one that is.
Sarah; Yes it is – and he’s kind in other ways as well.
Gran; And what might those other ways be?
Sarah; Gran – you can be impossible at times; I’m very fond of him and that’s all there is to it. Honest.
Gran; Mmmm – and you want to knit him a gansey!
Sarah; Yes I do.
Gran; (Head on one side.) And that is all?
Sarah; Yes. Well – you know……..
Gran; (Grinning at her.) Yes lass – I know. Oh – all right then – go and get me kitting box.
Sarah; (Hugging her Gran.) Your an angel.
Gran; (Playfully pushing her away.) Angel!! Hey – not so fast – I’m not aiming to be one of them yet awhile – if you don’t mind. And yes – I was young once you know.
(Sarah getting knitting box from off a table or in a drawer.)
Sarah; Were you in love with grandpa?
Gran; Love – love! Is that all you young girls ever think about – love?
Sarah But were you, Gran?
Gran; Well….. let’s just say – love came our way.
Song; “Love Came Our Way”
Gran; When I was a girl – things were different then.
We didn’t fill our heads – with the thoughts of men.
And yet love – came our way.
Things back then – had a different style
We were told that we had to – wait a while.
And yet – love came our way.
And then one day – out of the blue.
He was standing there – as real as you
I knew in that moment – he was meant for me
He felt the same way too – that was plain to see.
When I was a girl – things were not the same
Things were so much harder – it was not a game.
And yet love – came our way.
Some didn’t have a penny – to bless themselves
Many cupboards were bare – with empty shelves
And yet love – came our way.
And then one day – out of the blue.
He was standing there – as real as you
I knew in that moment – he was meant for me
He felt the same way too – that was plain to see.
We were taught the things – girls needed to know
How to knit and cook – how to darn and sew
And yet love – came our way.
We were told if we wanted to be a wife
To expect to have – a very different life.
And yet love – came our way.
(Continued on next page.)
And then one day – out of the blue.
He was standing there – as real as you
I knew in that moment – he was meant for me
He felt the same way too – that was plain to see.
That’s how it was – when I was a girl.
When I was a girl.
(Blackout. – music continues for scene change.)
Scene Eight – some weeks later – Bridlington North Bay foreshore.
(Sea weed here and there – drift wood scattered – possibly a couple suggestions of timber breakwaters – tide sounds – seagulls. Enter stage right Thomas, Sam, Arthur & Frank walking along kicking the seaweed – skimming imaginary pebbles across the water – also imaginary. They position themselves stage right.)
Sam; But Tommy – you’ve not known the lass five minutes.
Thomas; Five minutes, five hours, five days, five years – what does time matter?
Frank; Sam’s right Tommy – you hardly know the girl.
Thomas; I know enough – anyway I’ve had my eye on her for ages.
Arthur; Is that all you’ve had on her Thomas?
(All except Thomas laugh.)
Thomas; For two pins I’d punch you on the nose.
Others; Wooooo.
Arthur; He has got it bad – hasn’t he? And all because she’s knitting him a gansey.
Thomas; It isn’t all because Sarah’s knitting me a gansey……..I love her.
Others; Wooooo.
Frank; Are you sure she’s not …….. you know?
Thomas; Look – I’m getting a bit fed up with you lot – I’ve had enough earache from me mam. So don’t you lot start as well.
Frank; All right – all right – keep your hair on.
Arthur; Look – you don’t have to marry her just because she’s knitting you a gansey.
Thomas; I’m not – you fool; I want to marry her – it’s what chaps do you know.
Sam; I mean to say – Hetty Weatherill’s knitting one for me – but I’m not going to marry her – now am I?
Thomas; Perhaps you don’t love her.
Sam; (Grinning hugely.) Oh yes – I love her alright(Big guffaw.).
Thomas; That’s not very nice Sam.
Arthur; Anyway, what about that other lass you was potty about, Tommy – the one from Driffield?
Thomas; That was different – besides, the family moved to London.
Arthur; You could have gone to see her on the train.
Thomas; Oh yes – I’m likely to do that – aren’t I? As a matter of fact – her folks had bigger ideas for her – what with her playing the piano and all.
Arthur; Well – you can play the mouth-organ.
Thomas; Very funny.
Sam; What does Sarah’s dad say?
Thomas; We haven’t asked him yet.
Sam; I reckon her dad’ll have something to say to you my lad – taking his little girl.
Frank; That’s right – Matty Bloomfield may have a wonky right hand but – his left is lethal. I’ve seem him lay a fella out just for snatching one of his pickled herrings and not paying for it. But he paid for it alright – four front teeth.
Sam; I can’t imagine what he’ll do to you for knocking off his little girl.
Thomas; Don’t be disgusting – I haven’t done anything of the sort.
Sam; More fool you.
Frank; What have you done with her then?
Thomas; I haven’t done anything with her.
Frank; Come on – you must have done something with her.
Thomas; We’ve walked and talked.
Sam; Walked and talked – is that all?
Thomas; We’ve held hands.
Others; Woooo!
Arthur; Have you kissed her, Tommy lad?
Thomas; None of your business.
Arthur; He hasn’t even kissed her and he wants to marry her – he’s puddled.
Thomas; I didn’t say I hadn’t kissed her – I only said it was none of your business. And it isn’t any of your business – so just clear off – the lot of you.
Arthur; Suit yourself – come on lads.
(Exit Frank, Arthur and Sam – Thomas sits on the end of a breakwater DSR and plays with some seaweed – lights dim on Thomas. Enter Sarah, Flo, Edna and Mabel stage left. They halt near another breakwater – lights come up on them.)
Flo; So what do you reckon your da will say, Sarah?
Sarah; It’s anybody’s guess.
Edna; Is your mam for him?
Sarah; Well – she is and she isn’t.
Edna; I see.
Sarah; It’s so unfair when people don’t give someone a chance. It’s not his fault that his Da was a no-good. Anyway, there’s always two sides to everything.
Flo; That’s people for you – isn’t it? They’d rather say something
bad about someone than something good. They prefer a bit of spicy gossip over decent doings. But you’ll never change some folk.
Mabel; Wi, chaps – most things folk say about ‘em are true; well that’s been my experience.
Edna; Yes – alright Mabel; but what Flo says is quite right – my mam’s aunty can’t wait to tell us bad news. Mind you – it’s a toss-up who gets to our door first – her or my gran. They’re often minutes away from each other coming with their “I must tell our Elsie” – I reckon they’ll have been almost running all the way.
(The laugh.)
Flo; Have you thought where you’ll live, Sarah?
Sarah; With my mam and da I suppose – there’s enough room.
Edna; There might be now but what about when the bairns come along
Sarah; Who said anything about bairns?
Edna; Well Sarah – everyone knows bairns come with marriage.
Sarah; Not for everyone – my cousin Ruth has no bairns and they’ve been wed ten years. So it doesn’t follow – does it?
Edna; Alright – some women don’t have bairns because………well perhaps they……Oh I don’t know.
Flo; I do believe you’re blushing Edna.
Mabel; They should count themselves lucky. Bairns!!! Not for me!!
Edna; Ignore her. So how will you manage with your mam and da in the next bedroom?
Sarah; Others manage – why shouldn’t we – and for another thing,
his uncle Billy has some properties which he might let us set up our own home in.
Flo; Oh yes UNCLE Billy – he’s quite the lad – isn’t he. You’ll have to be careful with him, Sarah Ellen.
Sarah; He won’t try anything with me – so don’t you worry.
Flo; He’s tried it on with me.
Edna; And me.
Mabel; He wouldn’t dare with me!
Girls; We know!!
Flo; Hey Sarah – wouldn’t it be funny if his real dad came back?
Sarah; I don’t think it would be funny at all – neither would Thomas – or his mam for that matter. No – I don’t see him showing his face round these parts again; there’s too many would like to have words with him.
Flo; More than words – so I heard – some would be after his blood.
Edna; How do you know Thomas won’t turn out like his da?
Sarah; I don’t think so – Thomas is made of better stuff.
Edna; Yes – but some of his STUFF is his da’s. I expect he didn’t
start out being a rotter – he just became one. If he’d been a rotter from the start Thomas’s mam wouldn’t have married him – would she?
Mabel; Aren’t all men rotters? Anyway, she might have had to marry him because of ……you know!.
Sarah; Just listen to you all – like some of the old gossips in the gutting sheds. No – I haven’t known Thomas for long but in the short time I have known him, he’s been nothing but a perfect gentleman.
Edna; Not to mention a classy dancer.
Flo; Who, just by chance, named a boat named after a certain Sarah Ellen.
Sarah; Just wait till you three land yourselves chaps – it’ll be different then.
Mabel; There’ll be no chaps for me!
Girls; We know!!
Edna; I’d want something more reliable than Tommy Dinsdale.
Flo; Me too! You know what they say – like father – like son.
Sarah; Oh – I give up with you lot – just buzz off.
Edna; Ooooo – she wants to be alone – come on you two – let’s leave her to it.
(Exit Flo, Mabel and Edna – Sarah kicks at the seaweed.)
Sarah; Some friends they are! Oh Thomas – where are you now when I’m thinking about you and wishing you were here?
(A tight spot comes up on Thomas – he stands.)
Thomas; Some mates they are – saying those things. Sarah my love – where are you now? You must know I’m thinking about you – let’s face it – I think about you all the time.
Song; “When I think of you”.
(Music – they sing both in spots – never look directly at each other.)
Thomas; When I think of you – they’re the happiest thoughts.
And certain to bring out a smile.
Sarah; When I think of you – there’s a warm kind of glow.
And it seems to be there – all the while.
Thomas; Whenever you’re near – the hours disappear.
Seems crazy – though darling it’s true.
Both; These are the things – oh my dearest love,
That I feel – when I think of you.
Sarah; When I think of you – I’m walking on air.
For to be with you – is such a joy.
Thomas; When I think of you – quite like no one else.
I feel I’m the luckiest boy.
(Continued on next page.)
Sarah; What you’ve meant to me – has been quite plain to see,
You’re the promise that seemed out of view.
Both; These are the things – oh my dearest love,
That I feel – when I think of you.
Thomas; When I think of you – I see your merry face.
That’s eager but sometimes looks shy.
Sarah; When I think of you – I think tenderest thoughts,
And often – a tear fills my eye.
Thomas; None can compare – with a jewel so rare.
So sparkling, and precious bijou.
Both; These are the things – oh my dearest love,
That I feel – when I think of you.
Sarah; When I think of you – I think how it would be,
For us to live life – side by side.
Thomas; When I think of you – and it will be that way.
When our wedding knot – has been tied.
Sarah; To be sharing each day – seems the natural way.
Thomas; I’m certain she feels that way too?
Both; These are the things – oh my dearest love,
That I feel – when I think of you.
Yes – these are the things – oh my dearest love,
That I feel – when I think of you.
(Blackout. They exit – music continues for scene change.)
Scene Nine; Four months later, Wedding reception – assembly rooms.
US there is a trestle table with part consumed food on it – and wedding cake, crockery and glasses People seated include Rose and Matty – Ginny & Billy – Arthur best man and bride’s maids, gran. Two spaces are vacant at the centre for bride and groom. Other oddments of chairs are dotted around the room people are seated. People are chatting. Some have glasses with ‘wine’ in them. Rose is chatting to Ginny.)
Rose; (To Ginny.)They’re just saying tar-ah to Horace – Matty’s cousin – he couldn’t stay for the speeches – has to get back to Beverley to open his pub; yes he’s a pub landlord – it’s him that brought us the sherry.
Ginny; Very nice too – and such a lovely spread.
Rose; All the pubs that Matty goes into selling his pickled herrings have chipped in with their individual contributions; he’s very popular with them you see. One of the landlords has fixed up with them to stay for the night at one of his friend’s hotels in Filey……in their very best room; all very kind, of of them – of course.
Ginny; Well – as you know – Billy’s going to sort a little cottage out for them when he gets one vacant.
Rose; Oh – they’ll be alright with us for a while yet.
Ginny; Yes – but it’s nice to have your own place – isn’t it?
Rose; It certainly is.
Gran; (To Matty at top table) What are they doing Matthew?
Matty; They’re just saying tar-ah to our Horace.
Gran; They’ll be all day then – you know he can talk the hind legs off a donkey.
Matty; Well – they can’t just let him go without thanking him for the sherry he’s brought for us all to drink.
Gran; He’s probably got it for nowt – knowing our Horace.
Matty; It doesn’t matter how he’s got it – we’re grateful for it; we’re grateful to everyone for their contributions to the tea.
Gran; Yes – we’ll don’t forget to tell them that I made the cake.
Matty; I’ve got it down on me notes mam.
Rose; (To Matty.) What’s mam going on about?
Matty; She’s telling me I mustn’t forget to mention that she made the wedding cake.
Rose; (Chuckles.) That’s your mam alright!
(Enter Sarah and Thomas in their posh clothes – Sarah carrying a bouquet.)
Matty: They’re here now.
Gran; About time – I’m getting tired – I need my nap.
(Matty stands – leads the clap clap clap as they walk round the room and take their places at the top table. He begins his speech.)
Matty; May I say – my good lady and myself are delighted you could all join us for this auspicious occasion here at The Assembly Rooms. Well it’s not actually the big room – but I’m sure you’ll all agree that this room is more comfortable and cosy like.
Ginny; (Aside to Billy.) Not to say cheaper.
Billy; (In a loud whisper.) Give over Ginny.
Matty; And there is room for us to dance – well some of us that is.
Furthermore – as the father of the bride – I know that you’ll all think me prejudiced when I say that our Sarah has made a beautiful one. Bride that is.
(A ripple of laughter.)
Matty; On these occasions I’ve heard many fathers of brides say that she will be missed – but in a way – she won’t be – cos they’re stopping with us.
(A ripple of laughter.)
Ginny; Until Billy can find them somewhere of their own – that is.
Matty; Yes – that’s right Ginny – then she will be missed – I suppose. I must say – at first I wasn’t so sure about her chap – but as we’ve got to know him – I’ve got to like him – and he does keep me supplied with runt herrings.
(More giggles.)
Rose; Matty – really!!
Matty; Anyway – that’s enough from me.
Gran; What about the cake Matthew?
Matty; The cake – oh yes – mam would like you all to know that she made the wedding cake….. and she’s got some bicarbonate of soda if anyone needs it.
(Laughter – shake of the fist from Gran.)
Matty; Can we all now drink a toast to the bride and groom.
All; The bride and groom – cheers.
Matty; And now it’s the best man’s turn – though heaven knows what Arthur’s going to come up with. Take the floor Arthur.
Arthur; (Rising.) But if I did take the floor – where would we put the chairs?
(Various exclamations of derision.)
Arthur; I’ve known Thomas since we were both in nappies – but he stayed in his a bit longer than I stayed in mine – till he was fifteen I think.
(Various exclamations of derision.)
Arthur; But one thing I know for sure – he knew from the very start that he wanted to marry Sarah. He’s a very lucky man because she said yes. I think it was was because he’s a nifty dancer. I could tell you a lot more about him but I might end up with a black eye. So I’ll just say good luck mate – good luck to you both – and here’s health to the bridesmaids. And now the bride and groom will cut the cake…….
(Gran leans forward – gives a loud cough.)
Arthur; ……..made by gran.
(Sarah and Thomas cut the cake. Arthur leads the applause.)
Arthur; And now a few words from the groom. Come on Thomas.
Thomas; Thank you everyone for coming today – I can’t talk for long because we’ll need to be catching our train soon but we hope you’ll stay for the dancing. I have to say thank you Mrs. and ….well erm…..Mrs. Bloomfield for allowing me to marry her lovely daughter who won my heart by knitting me a gansey.
Gran; It was me who taught her how to knit one.
Thomas; And was very well taught too gran. Well – that’s about it.
Arthur; You’re not going without doing a dance for us are you Thomas?
Thomas; It will have to be quick – come on Sarah. Let’s have “Daisy Bell” – everybody’s singing it.
Gran; Oh goody – that’s champion – I know that one.
Thomas; Very good gran – sing up.
Gran; Them pierotts of Bridlington’s are singing it on’t sands.
Ginny; And Scarborough’s gran.
Gran; Our pierotts is better’n what Scarborough’s is.
Thomas; That’s right gran.
Gran; And you can buy t’music for thripence.
Thomas; You can indeed gran.
Gran; And another thing……
Matty; For pity’s sake mam – let ‘em get on wi’ it – tides comin’ in!
Thomas; Music maestro please..
(“Daisy Bell” – all sing along. Sarah & Thomas dance.)
Song; “Daisy Bell” Written in 1892 by Harry Dacre
Daisy, Daisy – give me your answer, do!
I’m half crazy – all for the love of you!
It won’t be a stylish marriage – I can’t afford a carriage,
But you’ll look sweet upon the seat-of a bicycle built for two!
There is a flower within my heart, Daisy, Daisy!
Planted one day by a glancing dart – planted by Daisy Bell!
Whether she loves me or loves me not,
Sometimes it’s hard to tell;
Yet I am longing to share the lot – of beautiful Daisy Bell!
Daisy, Daisy – give me your answer, do!
I’m half crazy – all for the love of you!
It won’t be a stylish marriage,
I can’t afford a carriage,
But you’ll look sweet upon the seat
Of a bicycle built for two!
(Everyone applauds.)
Thomas; That will have to do but carry on dancing yourselves.
Sarah; Are you ready to catch the bouquet? Here goes.
(It would be good if Mabel could catch it. Sarah and Thomas exit to shouts of “Good luck.”,“Sweet dreams.” etc.)
Arthur; Come on everybody – let’s see you on the floor.
(People take their places and the music/singing resumes. After the dance they applaud and begin to make their exits – chatting as they go; the music continues for the changing of the scene. This is a quick-change for Sarah.)
Scene Ten & finale – Bridlington Harbour 1895 – North Pier.
(Sarah is seated back on the box as at the opening. Enter narrator into a spot. Possible ambient music cover.)
Narrator; So now you know how it all began – as well as what happened to Thomas and the crew. And so, here’s Sarah – sitting there again – sitting and knitting – knitting and hoping – hoping and knitting. When will she decide to give in – that’s the thing? Give in – as many another fisherman’s wife has done down the ages but she’ll get used to it – being a fish-widow. Someone’s coming – it’s the harbourmaster and Amos.
(Light fades on narrator. Enter harbourmaster & Amos – lights come up on them & Sarah.)
HM; Why don’t you take yourself off home luvie – there’ll be nothing coming in tonight.
Amos; He’s right Sarah – you take yourself off home – if there’s any news – we’ll come for you.
Sarah; If it’s all the same to you – I’ll wait just a bit longer. And you never know.
HM; It’ll do no good; these things happen luvie – nobody wants them to but when your out there against the elements it can get pretty rough sometimes.
Sarah; I’ll wait if you don’t mind – there’s still some light. Where there’s light – there’s hope.
HM; Suit yourself. (He shakes his head and wanders off with Amos.)
(Enter Billy – he approaches Sarah.)
Billy; Still no news.
(Sarah shakes her head.)
Billy; It can be a cruel place out there.
Sarah; And you send ‘em out there in your boats.
Billy; Be fair Sarah love – I just give them jobs – it’s their choice when all’s said and done.
Sarah; They went out without a skipper.
Billy; That happens plenty times, sweetheart – and it works out alright.
Sarah; What will I do without him?
Billy; (Putting an arm around her.) Don’t worry sweetheart – we’ll look after you.
Sarah; (Removing his arm,) I don’t need you to look after me – thank you very much.
Billy; There will be the insurance of course.
Sarah; Insurance – insurance – what am I going to do with insurance when all I want is Thomas back home.
Billy; (Shuffling.) Well let’s hope his guardian angel is on duty.
(He pats her shoulder and exits. Sarah sings.)
Song; Dear Guardian Angel.
` Dear guardian angel – won’t please hear my plea.
As you look after sailors – when they are out at sea?
Please let him be safe – please keep your sea calm.
Oh – let him be safe – and free from all harm.
Dear guardian angel – he’s so precious to me
For this I pray – dear guardian angel out there
Please hear my plea.
(Continued on next page.)
They all know the perils – that daily they face.
The sea can be – such a dangerous place.
But they’re all loved – by someone – that’s true
But dear guardian angel – won’t you love them too.
Won’t you love them too.
Dear guardian angel – please hear my plea.
As you look after sailors – when they’re out at sea?
Please let him be safe – please keep your sea calm.
Oh – let him be safe – and free from all harm.
Dear guardian angel – he’s so precious to me
For this I pray – dear guardian angel out there
Please hear my plea.
Dear guardian angel out there – please hear my plea.
(After song shegoes into a freeze. Light fades on her – comes up onto narrator.)
Narrator; Well – like Billy said – there’ll be the insurance of course – and at least she’s got her bairns to remind her of him – hasn’t she? And so we’re back to where we started – with a girl and a gansey. (He once again looks at her – shakes his head.) Tragic really. (Shoulder shrug)
(Narrator slowly begins to exit – then halts and turns.)
Well – life’s full of tragedies – isn’t it?
(Again, narrator slowly begins to exit – then halts and turns.)
Oh – you were looking for a happy ending were you?
Tough!
(Narrator shrugs – again makes to exit. Then turns and comes back.)
Oh – alright then – all those who are for a happy ending say ‘aye’. Now those who are not for a happy ending say ‘nay’. Well as they say in another place – the ayes have it – the ayes have it.
(Narrator grins and moves out of the scene. Light comes up on Sarah who suddenly jumps down off the box excitedly.)
Sarah; It’s the lifeboat coming in and towing another boat behind it – look everybody – there’s a rescue happening.
(Other people enter all talking at once. HM & Amos rush up to her.)
Sarah; See everyone – just coming into view.
HM; Aye – the lifeboat did go out. (Holds up binoculars – telescope.) Your right – I can’t just make out the name (He adjust the focus.) That’s better – well I’ll be blowed, it’s The Sarah Ellen.
Sarah; I knew it – I knew it – they’re safe.
HM; Now don’t get your hopes up luvie – just because they’ve
got the boat – it doesn’t mean that…….
Sarah; Of course it does – don’t you see?
(Enter Rose and Matty.)
Sarah; Mam – da – they’ve got the boat; oh please God – Thomas is safe.
Rose; Please God they’re all safe.
(Enter Ginny Dinsdale – with Billy Porrit .)
Ginny; Is our Thomas safe?
Sarah; Of course he is.
(Enter Gran.)
Gran; What’s doing
HM; All we know is that the lifeboat’s towing The Sarah Ellen.
Billy; Thank the lord for that.
Matty; (Making his way over to Billy, confronts him.) Oh yes – thank the Lord for your bloody boat, Billy Porrit – to hell with the lads who were in it – our Sarah’s chap – father of our grand-bairns; no thanking the Lord for them – him and his mates – you’re all heart you are.
Ginny; (Turns to Billy belting him with her shopping bag.) Matty’s right – is that all you can think about – your ruddy boat – you great wazzock – what about our Thomas?
Gran; (Giving him a wack.) Yes – you gormless bahmpot – my grand-bairns daddy.
Billy; I meant Thomas as well – it just didn’t come out that way.
Ginny; No – it didn’t come out that way – did it? (She wacks him again.)
Sarah; Look – they’re coming up the steps now.
(People rush forward .)
HM; Stand back now – stand back give em some breathing space.
(Enter Thomas and his ship mates in various states of bandaging and splints. Sarah runs up to him and hugs him.)
Sarah; Thomas – oh Thomas – your safe.
Thomas; Well – I do have a fractured arm.
Sarah; Thank God for that.
Thomas; I’d rather not thank God for my fractured arm – that’s if it’s alright with you, Sarah my love.
Sarah; But at least you’re safe.
Thomas; Look – can we just get home.
Sarah; Home……what a wonderful word that is – home. I told mam – I said – “He’ll come home.” Didn’t I mam?
Rose; You did my love – you did,
Thomas; And that’s where I’d like to be right now. HOME!!
( Music starts up for song.)
Song; “I really just want to be home”.
Thomas; Yes I really just want to be home – that is what I now desire
I really just want to be home – a sitting in front of the fire
With the ones that I love – all gathered around
Me sitting in my favourite chair
And sitting by me – my precious joy and my pride.
Yes my dearest darling Sarah by my side.
Both; That will be wonderful.
So very very wonderful
And our cup of love is certainly not to be under-full
Yes, that will be wonderful.
So very very wonderful
Being back home – is where I long to be.
(Continued on next page.)
Others; Yes he really just wants to be home –
seamen all think the same.
They really just want to be home –
away from the fish catching game.
But then they get bored – and they start to twitch
Can’t wait to get back on the foam
To scratch that sea-going itch is what they yearn – for
But when their out there – they all just want to be home
But they are wonderful.
Our fishermen are wonderful
But sometimes the path they tread
is treacherous……
Gran; …..and blunder-full
But they are wonderful
Whether their home or bobbing about in the sea.
They’re probably all quite barmy we agree.
(Music continues. Thomas exits with Sarah. Others escort Arthur, Frank, and Sam off the set – the set is clear. Narrator enters.)
Narrator; Well – there you have it then – the happy ending you all wanted, so now you can all go home satisfied. Is that alright with you? Good! But before you go – I’m sure you’ll want to show your appreciation for the company.
(The cast in turn enter for a ‘walk-down’ – “Be My Gansey Girl” plays in the background. 1st on are chorus – 2nHarbour Master and Amos, 3rd Bill Porritt and Ginny, 4th Thomas’s mates and Sarah’s pals, 5th Rose and Matty, 6th Gran, 7th Sarah and Thomas. Reprise of “Be My Gansey Girl”)
/fin