Korczak and the Children

A stage play by G.E. Farrell

The story of Janusz Korczak a Polish physician and head of the Jewish Orphanage in the Warsaw Ghetto who refused to stay behind to care for forced laborers while his children were sent to Treblinka. He and they perished together.

Characters: Janusz Korczak (Henryk Goldszmitt) Stepha Wilczenska a middle aged woman Rosa a young woman Sarah a middle aged woman Yaacov Viszinski a middle aged man Mueller a young man Mr. & Mrs. Kalouski Abrasha a boy of about 13 Maryna a girl of about 11 Dorka a girl of about 11 Natzia a girl of about 8 Moniushe a boy of about 12 Yolek a boy of about 10 Hanka a girl of about 9 Romacia a girl of about 6 Felix a boy of about 11 Israel a boy of about 11 A Policeman, other children, a secretary-nurse, a guard

The action of the play takes place in Warsaw, Poland between August, 1939, and August, 1942.

Act 1

The Jewish Orphanage at 92 Krochmalna Street, Warsaw, Poland, in the late summer of 1939. It is represented by a large space flanked by two platforms approximately three feet high and reached by steps from stage center. Upstage center are French doors with white summer curtains on them. The doors are open revealing a garden through which a brick path leads to a playground. The garden is filled with numerous flowers in many colors and a few shrubs. Surrounding the playground is a wrought iron picket fence beyond which is the rear of the row of residences. It is mid-morning of a sunny day.

Inside, Stepha Wilczenska sits next to a scale. A line of children wait patiently to be weighed after which each runs off. Rosa, a pretty girl of twenty-one, operates the scale and calls the weights to Stepha who records them on a clip board. Stepha is a tall, middle aged woman, plain though not unattractive. The children are healthy and neatly dressed.

Rosa:

Natzia, twenty six and three tenths kilograms.

Stepha:

Don't get overheated, Natzia. You're just over a summer cold. Try to stay in the shade.

Natzia:

Yes. Miss Stepha. (Runs off)

Rosa:

You might just as well ask the rain not to fall; she'll be overheated within a few minutes.

Stepha:

I know, but a warning might slow her down a bit. Sometimes we have to settle for what we can get.

Rosa:

Dorka, thirty-four kilograms.

Stepha:

All right, Dorka. Her weight hasn't changed in months.

Rosa:

I don't think she's ever going to grow.

Stepha:

She may just shoot up suddenly; I've seen it happen many times.

Rosa:

Moniushe the third, fifty-two point eight kilograms.

Stepha:

You should be doing a bit less reading and join the other boys at play, Moniushe. You don't get enough exercise.

Moniushe:

I will, Miss Stepha.

Rosa:

Yolek, thirty-seven and three tenths.

Stepha:

Very good.

Rosa:

Hanka, thirty-four.

Stepha:

Your dress looks marvelous, Hanka. Did you make it yourself.

Hanka:

Miss Rosa helped, a little.

Stepha:

It's lovely.

Hanka:

Thank you.

Rosa:

I think we may have a case of puppy love in our midst.

Stepha:

Hanka and Yolek?

Rosa:

Yes.

Stepha:

I think you may be right.

Rosa:

Abrasha, forty-six and eight tenths.

Stepha:

Are you sure?

Rosa:

That's what the scale says.

Stepha:

Well, that's very good, almost miraculous.

Abrasha:

Is it, Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

Yes. You've gained over two kilograms in the last week.

Abrasha:

Have I? I must be over my illness then; I know I feel fine.

Stepha:

And well you should after such a hefty weight gain.

Abrasha:

May I go play now?

Stepha:

Why do you keep your hands in your pockets, Abrasha?

Abrasha:

No reason. They're just more comfortable there is all.

Stepha:

They're not cold, are they? If your hands are cold on such a warm day, you must not be well yet.

Abrasha:

Oh no, they're not cold at all.

Stepha:

Then take them out of your pockets. (He obeys reluctantly. When his hands are withdrawn, the outlines of two objects can be seen in his pockets. Stepha holds out her hand. and he surrenders two weights.) Back on the scale.

Rosa:

Forty and eight tenths.

Stepha:

All right. You may go and play; but this had better be the last of your attempted deceptions, Abrasha. You know better than this.

Abrasha:

Yes, Miss Stepha.

Stepha:

Take these back to the kitchen before you go outside.

Abrasha:

Yes, Ma'am. (He goes off.)

Rosa:

He's such an imp. I don't know how he managed to get those weights out of the kitchen without Sarah knowing it.

Stepha:

Abrasha is very resourceful. He may even have got her to help him.

Rosa:

Sarah! She'd sooner brain him with a skillet.

Stepha:

I'm afraid that the doctor's lessons in ethics are lost on him.

Rosa:

The doctor should be told about this.

Stepha:

He'd just look stern for a minute and then say that it was wrong, but a child must exercise his wits. Have we weighed them all?

Rosa:

I think so.

Stepha:

I'll take care of the scale. You should go out and enjoy the weather also.

Rosa:

There's no need of that.

Stepha:

Go ahead. Let the sun put some color in your cheeks.

Rosa:

Are you sure you won't need anything?

Stepha:

I'm sure.

Rosa:

I won't be away long. (She leaves. Stepha moves the scale to a corner and goes onto the platform at stage right where she places the clip board on the doctor's desk. She then straightens the papers on the desk.)

Sara's Voice.

Miss Stepha! Miss Stepha!

Stepha:

(To herself) He didn't get the weights back without her knowing about it.

Sarah's Voice:

Miss Stepha.

Stepha:

(Coming back down the stairs.) I'm in the garden room, Sarah. (Sarah enters. She is a grey haired woman in her mid-fifties.) What is it?

Sarah:

Miss Stepha, I don't know how many times I've asked that the children be kept out of the kitchen, but just now I caught Abrasha sneaking around with these. I don't know what use he had for them, but I'm sure it was some mischief.

Stepha:

I know all about it; I told him to put them back.

Sarah:

What could the little monster have been doing with them? (Dr. Korczak enters. He is a bald man of about sixty with grey-red mustache and goatee.)

Korczak:

What little monster, Sarah?

Sarah:

Oh! You startled me, doctor. I was talking about Abrasha.

Korczak:

Were you? Well, monster is an improvement on horrid little creature. What's he done?

Stepha:

I sent him to return some weights to the kitchen forgetting that Sarah had asked me to keep the children out of there.

Sarah:

I can't cook for over forty people when I have to watch the children to make sure that they don't play with the knives or knock a boiling pot over on themselves.

Korczak:

I agree, Sarah, but that's no reason to refer to Abrasha as a little monster.

Sarah:

Abrasha manages to furnish enough reasons. (She leaves.)

Korczak:

She seems to have formed a negative opinion of him.

Stepha:

With Sarah that's a sure sign of affection.

Korczak:

How is he today? I was going to examine him this afternoon.

Stepha:

He's much better. His weight is up one quarter of a kilogram, so I let him go out to play.

Korczak:

Very good. That will do more for his recovery than lying about the dormitory.

Stepha:

I think that you may favor Abrasha a bit more than the others, Henryk.

Korczak:

No I don't. I love them all equally. Though I must admit that he shows a remarkable amount of enterprise for one so young.

Stepha:

But in the wrong way.

Korczak:

He has got a penchant for mischief, hasn't he? We must try to help him channel his abilities to more constructive purposes.

Stepha:

How is the Osterblum boy?

Korczak:

An allergy is all, though one would think it was terminal the way his mother goes on. Would you believe that she demanded that I stay with him until he recovered? She even had a cot set up for me to sleep on. As if I'd leave a seriously ill child without proper care.

Stepha:

And the Boz girl?

Korczak:

I'm afraid that she's a bit more serious. She has some sort of intestinal problem, a virus I think. I gave her some medication that should clear it up though. If not, she'll have to be sent to the Children's Hospital for tests. It's a good thing that Mrs. Osterblum didn't know that I was caring for a poor child at the same time that I was attending to her darling boy. Mrs. Boz baked this bread for us.

Stepha:

Did Ms. Osterblum pay you?

Korczak:

She said that she'll send it.

Stepha:

You should demand immediate payment.

Korczak:

I did but she only made a lot of excuses.

Stepha:

Then you shouldn't go to her anymore.

Korczak:

How could I not go? Suppose the child was in need of urgent medical attention?

Stepha:

Let her find another doctor.

Korczak:

What other doctor? She sends for me because there is no other doctor that she can trust to care for her child.

Stepha:

Then she should pay you.

Korczak:

How did the weighing go?

Stepha:

Quite well. I left the results on your desk, and now that Abrasha's recovered, no one is on the sick list.

Korczak:

Good. Now maybe we'll have time to be ill. Has the mail come in yet?

Stepha:

On your desk. Would you like some breakfast?

Korczak:

That would be nice. And then I'll attend to the garden before I keep my afternoon appointments.

Stepha:

You should lie down for a while; you've been up most of the night.

Korczak:

I must keep money coming in to care for the children; sleep can wait.

Stepha:

You need sleep, you're not getting any younger.

Korczak:

Neither is the youngest child.

Stepha:

Children sleep.

Korczak:

How long have we been together, Stepha?

Stepha:

Twenty-seven years, you know that as well as I.

Korczak:

You've been too clever for me for twenty-eight. I can't sleep anyway, my stomach growls too loudly.

Stepha:

I'll get your breakfast. (She leaves. Korczak goes to his office. drapes his jacket over the chair. sits down and puts on his eyeglasses.)

Korczak:

(Looking at the clipboard.) Very good. Moniushe the third, fifty-two point eight? Isn't he only four years old? Ach! I must be more tired than I thought; he's twelve, and heavy even for that age. (Picks up a pencil.) Memo. Perhaps we should number the Moniushes chronologically according to their ages rather than their dates of arrival. (Stops to think. smiles.) Two. Perhaps, in the alternative, we could nickname the older three Harpo, Chico and Groucho. Stepha will love that, after she recovers from the initial horror. The mail. (Opens a number of pieces. scans them and piles them on the desk.) An invitation! Mr. and Mrs. Kalouski request the honor of your presence at luncheon. It's been years since I've had luncheon. Perhaps it will mean a contribution. (Stepha returns.)

Stepha:

Were you on the telephone?

Korczak:

No. Why?

Stepha:

I heard you talking.

Korczak:

I was talking to myself.

Stepha:

That's a bad habit.

Korczak:

It's a perfectly good habit. Besides, I haven't the time to go looking for someone to talk to every time I have something to say. I've received an invitation to luncheon from Mr. and Mrs. Kalouski.

Stepha:

So that's what that was. What's the occasion?

Korczak:

None that I can see. It just says that Mr. and Mrs. Kalouski request the honor of your presence, etc. It probably has to do with their children.

Stepha:

Are you going to accept?

Korczak:

Of course. I've never received an invitation from them before. It may sound mercenary, but I hope to be able to talk them out of a bit of their wealth.

Stepha:

They certainly have enough of it. I've brought the newspapers.

Korczak:

Anything interesting in them?

Stepha:

Mostly war talk.

Korczak:

That's all that's been in them for months now. If another war comes, it will be the fourth that I've seen. I've spent many years tending war wounds.

Stepha:

The government doesn't seem too concerned.

Korczak:

At least not in public. This Hitler fellow is a wild man though. If he wants Poland, he'll take it.

Stepha:

I pity the Jews if he does.

Korczak:

So do I. He doesn't particularly care for us does he? He's a wild man. These eggs are delicious.

Stepha:

I'll tell Sarah that you said so. Harpo, Chico and Groucho?

Korczak:

Huh? Oh! I've been getting the four Moniushes mixed up of late and thought that there might be a better way to identify them for we who are in our dotage.

Stepha:

There must be a better way than that. How about dyeing their hair different colors like green, blue and orange?

Korczak:

That's an idea.

Stepha:

Is there any correspondence to be answered?

Korczak:

Just a note accepting the invitation. I want to tend the garden now.

Stepha:

You take almost as much care of those flowers as you do the children.

Korczak:

That's because they both make the world a better place by their presence. (He takes a watering can and goes into the garden. Children can be seen playing in the playground. Stepha watches from inside. A ball rolls out of the wings followed by another group of children.)

Stepha:

You all know that ball playing is not allowed indoors. Out with all of you now. Not through the garden, Yolek.

Yolek:

Yes, Ma'am. (They go off as a girl of about five enters carrying a doll and sniffling.)

Stepha:

What's wrong, Romacia?

Romacia:

My doll's dress tore, Miss Stepha, but I can't find Miss Rosa to fix it.

Stepha:

Let me see it.

Romacia:

It was such a pretty dress too.

Stepha:

How did it tear?

Romacia:

I picked her up and it tore just like that.

Stepha:

Just like that, eh? How did you pick it up?

Romacia:

The way I always do.

Stepha:

What way is that?

Romacia:

By her dress.

Stepha:

I see. Wouldn't your dress tear if someone were to pick you up by it all the time.

Romacia:

I don't know.

Stepha:

Dolls and children should never be picked up by their clothes. It's not beyond hope though. Even I may be able to repair it. Let's find Miss Rosa's sewing box. (They go off. Lights fade.)

SCENE II

Korczak enters the Kalouski living room with Mr. and Mrs. Kalouski who motion him to an easy chair while they share a sofa.

Mrs.:

Would you prefer coffee or tea, doctor?

Korczak:

Tea please. That meal was exquisite. I haven't eaten so much in years.

Mrs.:

Thank you. Our cook will be flattered. Would you like some cakes?

Korczak:

No thank you. I couldn't fit another thing. This is a lovely home you have; it's almost as large as the orphanage.

Mr.:

I'm glad you like it.

Mrs.:

I think it's really too large for our needs. We bought it when we were first married and hoped to fill it with children, but we've been told that we cannot have any.

Korczak:

I'm sorry to hear that. You must feel a great emptiness in your lives.

Mrs.:

It's unfortunate that we've been unable to put any of your theories into practice. I've been an admirer of your work for some time now.

Korczak:

I'm flattered.

Mr.:

We've been considering adoption, doctor.

Korczak:

There are many children in need of good homes. I'd advise you to contact the Christian Orphanage though.

Mrs.:

Yes, of course. One of the reasons that we invited you here is to learn more about your work. It's rather embarrassing to know that such an eminent man is so near but has never been invited until now.

Korczak:

My work is simple. I care for children, both orphans and those with parents. The children themselves run the orphanage through a children's parliament, law courts-- which are rarely used--and a newspaper. I have a copy with me if you would like to see it.

Mrs.:

Very much.

Mr.:

I understand that you were also instrumental in the founding of the Christian Orphanage.

Korczak:

Hardly instrumental. All I really did was give advice and make suggestions. They asked me to sit on the board of directors though. Until recently.

Mr.:

Until recently?

Korczak:

Yes. It was suddenly thought unseemly to have a Jew directing a Christian orphanage.

Mr.:

Then you're no longer involved there at all?

Korczak:

I visit to look after the children's health, but that's about the extent of my involvement.

Mrs.:

If the children run the orphanage, what does the staff do?

Korczak:

Very little I'm afraid. We're mainly there to help the children keep things running smoothly. As for myself, I solicit financial and other support to keep the place functioning.

Mr.:

In addition to that you still write books, maintain an active medical practice, and lecture at the medical school.

Korczak:

Those are a part of my fund raising activities. I'm afraid that I'm forced on one side to be a humble mendicant and on the other a shameless capitalist.

Mr.:

I'm something of a capitalist myself.

Korczak:

I meant no offense. I'm personally non-political except where children are concerned.

Mr.:

No offense taken.

Korczak:

Good. (Looks at his watch.) I'm afraid that I must leave you now.

Mr.:

Of course.

Korczak:

Thank you again for your hospitality and that marvelous meal.

Mrs.:

It was our pleasure. We must have you again soon.

Korczak:

I hope so, and if I can be of any assistance to your adoption plans, please let me know.

Mrs.:

Thank you. We will.

Mr.:

And as for the orphanage, I'll speak to my banker. Perhaps we might be able to help you with your work.

Korczak:

That's very kind of you. I'll look forward to hearing from you. Good day.

Mrs.:

Goodbye, doctor. (Korczak leaves.) You could have given him a check.

Mr.:

I've already contributed to the Christian Orphanage; there are more than enough Jews wealthier than we are who can support their own institutions.

Mrs.:

They're only children, Jacob.

Mr.:

Jewish children.

Mrs.:

Have you forgotten that my parents were Jews?

Mr.:

Of course I haven't. I'll send him something first thing Monday.

Mrs.:

Thank you. I knew you would. (She hugs him as the lights fade on them and come up on center stage where Stepha and Rosa instruct a sewing class.)

Rosa:

That's very good, Sonia. Now double stitch it for strength. That's right. Not that way, Dorka. Let me show you. Like this, see?

Dorka:

Yes, Miss Rosa.

Rosa:

You try it now. That's right.

Stepha:

You're pulling through too fast, Katia. The thread will break on you. Be firm but not hard. That's it, just like that. You girls are all doing very well. (Korczak enters.)

Korczak:

Good afternoon, ladies.

Girls:

(Rising) Good afternoon, doctor.

Korczak:

Don't let me interrupt you; continue with what you were doing.

Rosa:

We're just about finished. That will be enough for today, girls. (The girls leave.) Will you need me, Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

I don't think so, Rosa. Go ahead and do whatever you have to.

Rosa:

Excuse me. (She leaves.)

Korczak:

I hope you didn't break up the lesson because of me.

Stepha:

It really was over. It was just an informal little thing anyway. How did the luncheon go?

Korczak:

They seem to be fine people. Unable to have children though.

Stepha:

That's too bad.

Korczak:

Yes. (They go to his office.) All their wealth can't relieve that kind of poverty.

Stepha:

Why did they invite you if not about their children?

Korczak:

They wanted to know more about our work with the children and the orphanage. They're considering adoption.

Stepha:

From here?

Korczak:

I advised them to go to the Christian Orphanage. Mr. Kalouski said that he would speak to his banker about a contribution.

Stepha:

That was nice of him.

Korczak:

Yes. Except that he is a banker.

Stepha:

Oh. He may still help us though.

Korczak:

He may, but I would imagine that any contributions he was to make would go to the Christian Orphanage rather than to us. It's almost time for the parliament to meet.

Stepha:

I'd better remind them. (Stepha leaves. While Korczak takes some paper from his desk and writes. children file into the garden room each carrying his or her own folding chair which they set up in two sections facing each other to left and right of center. Two boys place a table in the center just upstage of the two sections. The two then go off and return with three folding chairs two of which are placed behind the table. The third is placed a short distance from it. The flags of Poland and the orphanage are placed on either side of the French doors. Korczak finishes his letter, places it in an envelope and descends to join the children taking the seat that is removed from the proceedings. )

Dorka:

(Bangs gavel) This meeting of the parliament is now in session. Attendance report, Mr. Secretary.

Israel:

All members present, Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

Very good. The first business before the house is the weekly treasurer's report. Mr. Treasurer.

Korczak:

Madame Speaker and honored members, the Treasurer's report is much as was reported at the last meeting of the parliament. We have taken in since then seven hundred and twenty-six zlotys and paid out six hundred and eight-three zlotys. This leaves us with a surplus of forty-three zlotys for the extra expenditure fund which now equals two thousand two hundred and six zlotys. I will, as usual, leave a copy of the individual earnings and expenditures posted outside my office.

I'm afraid that in addition to the usual report however, I must also report that the roof has been recently inspected and found to be in need of immediate and extensive repair. I've made a report of the whole situation; whoever wishes to examine it may do so. The cost of the repairs will be rather large and shall necessitate a further delay in improvements to the playground and dining hall, but as I've said, the repairs are necessary.

Yolek:

Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

The chair recognizes the member from dormitory B.

Yolek:

I would like to ask the Treasurer the nature of the repairs to the roof.

Korczak:

The entire east wing of the building is in need of a new roof. The present one leaks. I have also been told that it is in danger of collapse from the weight of the snow in winter. The work will have to begin immediately so that it will be completed before the first snow falls.

Yolek:

Thank you, Mr. Treasurer.

Moniushe:

Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

The chair recognizes the member from dormitory G.

Moniushe:

Madame Speaker, I would like to state for the record that the roof over the east wing leaks very badly.

Dorka:

Your statement is noted.

Abrasha:

Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

The chair recognizes the member from class 6.

Abrasha:

I would like to ask the treasurer how long the delay caused by the roof will be for the playground and dining hall improvements.

Dorka:

Mr. Treasurer?

Korczak:

At least eight months to a year depending upon how long it will take to replenish the extra expenditure fund.

Abrasha:

The improvements will not be completed for at least one and a half years then.

Korczak:

I'm afraid not.

Abrasha:

Can't the roof be repaired more quickly and cheaply than it can be replaced?

Korczak:

No. I asked the engineers who inspected it the same question. It's too badly damaged to be repaired; it must be replaced.

Abrasha:

But during your report you said that the roof was in need of repair not replacement.

Korczak:

Yes I did, didn't I? It was a poor choice of words; I hope you will excuse me. Madame Speaker, I would like to amend my report to read replacement rather than repair.

Dorka:

Please note the change. Mr. Secretary.

Isreal:

It's noted, Madame Speaker. But could you slow down a bit? I'm having trouble keeping up.

Dorka:

Has the member from class 6 anything further?

Abrasha:

No, Madame Speaker. Thank you.

Dorka:

Are there any further questions or comments on the treasurer's report? Then we'll put the matter to a vote. All in favor of using the extra expenditure fund to replace the roof over the east wing, say aye.

All:

(Except Abrasha) Aye.

Dorka:

Opposed.

Abrasha:

Nay.

Dorka:

Abstentions. (None) The ayes have it. The extra expenditure funds are to be used to replace the roof over the east wing, and the playground and dining hall improvements are to be postponed to some future date. Will the Secretary enter the vote?

Israel:

Entered.

Dorka:

Is there any other business before the house? (All are silent for a moment.)

Hanka:

(Hesitantly) Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

The chair recognizes the member from class 5.

Hanka:

Madame Speaker, I would like to offer a resolution congratulating Sarah on the excellent strawberry fluff that she made Tuesday. (The others laugh.) It was the best dessert we've ever had.

Dorka:

I don't think that that's proper business for parliamentary attention. (She looks to Korczak who nods affirmatively.) Very well. We'll put it to a vote. All in favor of a resolution congratulating Sarah on last Tuesday's dessert say aye.

All: Aye!

Dorka:

Opposed. (None) Abstentions. (None) The resolution is passed unanimously. The Secretary will draft a resolution and present it to Sarah.

Israel:

Yes, Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

Is there any further business?

Yolek:

Madame Speaker.

Dorka:

The chair recognizes the member from dormitory C.

Yolek:

Madame Speaker, I move that this session be adjourned.

Hanka:

I second the motion.

Dorka:

In favor?

All:

Aye.

Dorka:

Opposed (None) The ayes have it. This meeting of parliament stands adjourned. (The children fold their chairs and file noisily out.)

Korczak:

Hanka.

Hanka:

(Shyly) Yes, doctor?

Korczak:

Was the strawberry fluff really that good?

Hanka:

Yes, sir.

Korczak:

Do you know if there's any left?

Hanka:

I don't know.

Korczak:

When you pass the dining hall, would you ask Miss Stepha to bring me just a little bit if there is any?

Hanka:

Yes, doctor.

Korczak:

Thank you. (Hanka leaves. Korczak goes into the garden. Stepha enters a moment later, looks outside and goes toward the office. Korczak re-enters with a flower.) Stepha.

Stepha:

Oh! I didn't see you when I looked out there.

Korczak:

I was over in the corner.

Stepha:

There's no more strawberry fluff; the children finished in Tuesday night.

Korczak:

I just wanted to taste it. Why didn't I have any Tuesday? I don't even remember it being served.

Stepha:

You weren't here.

Korczak:

Oh, that's right, I was at the Christian Orphanage looking after the Komorosky boy; he has the measles. I was a bit worried about him, he's so frail. I told them that he should be given larger portions though I doubt that it will do any good. He's a very nervous, uncommunicative boy. God knows what horrors he must have lived through before being brought there. He's much like Yolek was when he first came here.

Stepha:

How old is he?

Korczak:

The Komorosky boy? About nine though nobody knows for sure.

Stepha:

You cut one of the flowers.

Korczak:

Yes. They're so beautiful that I thought you might like one.

Stepha:

Thank you. It is beautiful. (Sarah enters crying.) Sarah! What's wrong?

Sarah:

Oh, doctor. Miss Stepha. Look what the children gave me.

Stepha:

What is it?

Sarah:

The parl....You read it, I can't.

Stepha:

The parliament of the Jewish Orphanage in session and as representative of the children resident do resolve to congratulate Sarah Falska, the orphanage cook, and commend her for outstanding accomplishment in making the strawberry fluff for dessert Tuesday last and thank her most heartily for this most enjoyable accomplishment. It is so resolved this 31st day of August, 1939. That's wonderful.

Sarah:

Who would have thought that the little darlings would know such nice words.

Korczak:

I've heard so many nice things about that fluff that I'm sorry I missed it.

Sarah:

Don't you worry about that, doctor. Since everybody enjoyed it so much, I'll make it again tonight for the dear things and make sure that there's some left for you.

Korczak:

That's an excellent idea.

Sarah:

I'll go to the market right now and get the strawberries. Ugh! I'll have to bicker with that Malachi; every time he sees me coming he throws his hands up in the air. He's such an old skinflint.

Korczak:

He does the same to me.

Sarah:

I'd better hurry. (She goes.)

Stepha:

The little darlings? I can't believe it.

Korczak:

Fear not, they'll be horrid little creatures again within the week.

Stepha:

I'm sure. Whose idea was the tribute?

Korczak:

Hanka.

Stepha:

I should have known. She seems to be growing into something of a diplomatist.

Korczak:

Isn't she though? I have no doubt that the world will hear from her someday. But as for today, I'd best be started on my rounds. (Goes to his office looking for something.) I have to stop at the Christian Orphanage to look in on a case of rubella and one or two others, none of which is really serious, but I must visit them to make sure that their recoveries are continuing. Have you seen my bag? I thought I left it here in my office.

Stepha:

It's by the door where it usually is.

Korczak:

Oh, good. I don't know what I'd do without you, Stepha.

Stepha:

Neither do I. Do you have your lecture notes?

Korczak:

I have no classes today; it's Thursday. I won't be long. (He leaves while she watches after him. smelling the flower while doing so. After a moment. Rosa enters.)

Rosa:

Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

Yes?

Rosa:

Miss Stepha, I'm afraid that we have a problem with one of the girls.

Stepha:

Which one?

Rosa:

Maryna. She's been acting very strangely the last few days. She's moody and quiet. She no longer plays with the other children but stays by herself. And her appetite has almost disappeared.

Stepha:

She's not ill?

Rosa:

She doesn't seem to be, but I really don't know.

Stepha:

You must be watching her very closely.

Rosa:

I've been worried about her.

Stepha:

Where is she now?

Rosa:

She's sitting in her dormitory watching out the window like a little convict.

Stepha:

Would you bring her here to me? (Rosa leaves. While awaiting her return. Stepha goes back to smelling her flower while watching Abrasha and some of the other children play outside. Rosa returns with Maryna.)

Rosa:

Here she is, Miss Stepha.

Stepha:

Hello, Maryna.

Maryna:

Good afternoon, Miss Stepha.

Stepha:

Miss Rosa tells me that you've been keeping very much to yourself lately.

Maryna:

Yes, Ma'am.

Stepha:

Did you have an argument with any of the other children?

Maryna:

No, Ma'am. (She watches the other children play.)

Stepha:

Have you been ill?

Maryna:

No.

Stepha:

What do you do by yourself all day?

Maryna:

I think.

Stepha:

That's an excellent occupation. What do you think about?

Maryna:

Many things.

Stepha:

Oh? (Calls) Abrasha! (Maryna is horrified. She looks for a place to run but finding none steps behind Rosa.) Come here. (Abrasha runs in flushed and out of breath.)

Abrasha:

Yes, Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

What are you playing?

Abrasha:

Follow the leader.

Stepha:

Try to be a bit more careful where you lead; the smaller children cannot climb or jump as well as you and might get hurt.

Abrasha:

I'll be more careful.

Stepha:

That's all.

Abrasha:

Would you like to play, Maryna?

Maryna:

No! (He returns to the others.)

Stepha:

You may go back to what you were doing, Maryna.

Maryna:

Yes, Ma'am. Thank you. (She hurries off.)

Rosa:

Do you see what I mean?

Stepha:

About Maryna?

Rosa:

Yes.

Stepha:

I don't think she's acting strangely at all. How old are you, Rosa?

Rosa:

Twenty-one.

Stepha:

Don't you remember the first time you were in love?

Rosa:

Yes, but....Oh dear. I never gave it a thought. (Smiles) He was the son of a letter carrier and the best speller in our school. The most courageous thing I ever did was say hello to him.

Stepha:

What did he say?

Rosa:

Nothing. He walked by as though I didn't exist. I was heartbroken for about a week. Then I found my second love. Do you remember your first?

Stepha:

Yes, very well. (She leaves smelling the flower. Rosa smiles to herself, amused at the pleasant memory and walks into the garden. On the platform left, Maryna sits on the edge of her bed watching below while Abrasha enters silently.)

Maryna:

Oh! (She jumps up.) What are you doing here? This is a girl's dormitory. What do you want?

Abrasha:

Why are you afraid of me?

Maryna:

You're not allowed here. (He does not reply.) I'm not afraid of you.

Abrasha:

Then why did you hide behind Miss Rosa this afternoon?

Maryna:

I did not hide.

Abrasha:

Yes you did.

Maryna:

No I didn't. Besides, it's none of your business.

Abrasha:

(Steps toward her, she steps away.) You are afraid.

Maryna:

I am not. (He steps toward her again. She steps back falling onto the bed.) If you don't go away, I'll tell Miss Rosa that you were here.

Abrasha:

Prove that you're not afraid of me by coming downstairs and playing with us.

Maryna:

I prefer to stay here.

Abrasha:

That's because you're afraid.

Maryna:

I am not.

Abrasha:

Then prove it.

Maryna:

All right. (She follows him off. It is night when Korczak returns looking very tired, crosses to the steps and ascends. He turns on the lamp, takes off his hat and drops into his chair where he lights a cigarette and sits quietly smoking for a moment. Stepha enters in a robe and slippers.)

Stepha:

Is that you, Henryk?

Korczak:

Yes.

Stepha:

You've been gone so long. Is anything wrong?

Korczak:

A newsboy was hit by a car while I was on my way back.

Stepha:

Was he hurt badly?

Korczak:

Killed.

Stepha:

Can I get you anything? Some coffee or supper?

Korczak:

No thank you. I want to write in my diary for a bit and finish some notes. You should be in bed.

Stepha:

I've been reading. Would you like me to sit with you for a bit?

Korczak:

No, I'm all right.

Stepha:

I'll go then. Good night.

Korczak:

Good night. (She leaves. He puts his eyeglasses on, takes a book from the desk and begins writing.) A newsboy of about ten was struck by an automobile on Nowolipie Street today. It is never easy to watch a person die despite all of one's efforts. But to watch a child who has yet to know the world for all its sweetness and surprise is the greatest tragedy. Were I able to trade my life for the life of that ragged newsboy, I would do so in a minute. For he will never know the happiness that I've known, nor shall he ever know the value of life's struggles. May God clutch him to His bosom. (There are distant thuds. The window lights and darkens as the noises come closer. Stepha, Rosa and some of the children come excitedly into the room. Korczak descends to the stage.) Get the children into the basement. Hurry!

Stepha:

What is it?

Korczak:

Bombs. Quickly, quickly!

End Act I

Act II

The orphanage in the summer of 1940. It is still well kept though deterioration is apparent in the number of cracked window panes in the doors and the need of painting. The curtains have been removed from the doors. Outside, the fence is twisted and broken, and the buildings behind are rubble. The garden has been planted with vegetables except for one small area that remains planted with flowers, and it has been extended to take in most of the playground. Two children can be seen tending it as Sarah enters looking about and calling.

Sarah:

Doctor, Miss Stepha. Miss Stepha. (To the children) Have either of you seen the doctor or Miss Stepha?

Child:

Miss Stepha went inside a few minutes ago.

Sarah:

Miss Stepha.

Stepha's Voice Offstage:

I'm coming, Sarah. (Stepha enters.) What is it?

Sarah:

Miss Stepha, if I wait any longer to make bread there will be none for dinner tonight, but I haven't the flour to make enough for more than one day. And also, I have no fruit or sugar for desserts.

Stepha:

You'll have to try to do with what you have for now. Can't you make smaller loaves?

Sarah:

If I make them any smaller, they'll be rolls.

Stepha:

Make what you can for tonight. Maybe the doctor will be able to get more flour; he has it on his list.

Sarah:

I'll do my best.

Stepha:

I know you will, Sarah. (Sarah leaves.) Rosa.

Rosa:

(Offstage) Yes, Miss Stepha? (Enters carrying a dress.)

Stepha:

Have Maryna and Abrasha returned yet?

Rosa:

I haven't seen them.

Stepha:

Does anybody know where they went?

Rosa:

Nobody I've spoken to. This is finished. How do you like it?

Stepha:

It looks marvelous. Who are you going to wear it for?

Rosa:

Never mind.

Stepha:

Oh, I see, a secret romance. He wouldn't be the son of a certain professor, would he?

Rosa:

I'll never tell.

Stepha:

I was wondering if it would be possible for you to help Sarah in the kitchen, you and one or two of the older children. I know how busy you are, but the way new children have been coming to us, she's been having difficulty keeping up with them.

Rosa:

I'd be glad to, if she'll let me.

Sarah:

Tell her I sent you. (Korczak enters the Kalouski's living room above left. He wears a faded Polish officer's uniform. Mrs. Kalouski enters a moment later.)

Mrs.:

Doctor Korczak. How are you?

Korczak:

Fine and you?

Mrs.:

As well as can be expected.

Korczak:

And Mr. Kalouski?

Mrs.:

About the same. He was gravelly wounded. The doctors don't know how he's managed to survive so long as he has.

Korczak:

With all of our medical knowledge, we know very little. I hope he recovers rapidly.

Mrs.:

Thank you. I haven't seen you since you were here to luncheon.

Korczak:

Much has happened since then.

Mrs.:

I sometimes forget that we've all been affected.

Korczak:

I know how busy you must be caring for your husband and his business interests, so I won't take too much of your time. I've come to ask your help for the Jewish Orphanage. You've been generous in the past, and we seem to have been the most harshly effected by the invasion and defeat. Since the surrender of Warsaw, we've been left to fend for ourselves as best we can. Almost all non-Jewish support has ceased due to the conquerors' hostility to us, and most Jews are hoarding against the future.

Mrs.:

I'll be happy to do what I can.

Korczak:

We'd appreciate whatever you could do for us: clothing, food, money, everything is in short supply.

Mrs.:

Your need must be great.

Korczak:

It hasn't reached the critical point yet, but it could do so at any time.

Mrs.:

Anna! (Anna. a young secretary-nurse enters.)

Anna:

Yes, Ma ' am?

Mrs.:

This is Doctor Korczak from the Jewish Orphanage.

Korczak:

How do you do?

Anna:

I'm pleased to meet you.

Mrs.:

Would you please go through the house and gather whatever clothes and food we don't need and send it over to the orphanage at .....

Korczak:

92 Krochmalna.

Mrs.:

Place anything that you're not sure about aside, and I'll come and let you know whether to send it.

Anna:

Yes, Ma'am. Anything else?

Mrs.:

No. I'd like you to do it immediately though. (Anna leaves.) Can I do anything else for you, doctor?

Korczak:

I didn't expect such an overwhelming response.

Mrs.:

There's no point keeping things we don't need when others are without. Would you wait here for a moment?

Korczak:

Certainly. (She leaves. While she's gone. Korczak takes out a pocket notebook and scribbles something with a pencil stub. Mrs. Kalouski returns.)

Mrs.:

Here you are, doctor. (Gives him a check.) I hope that it will help you. It would be more, but the conquerors as you call them have taken control of the banks like everything else.

Korczak:

It will be a great help; you're very generous.

Mrs.:

I'm just a frightened woman who would rather give what she has to children than have it taken by jack booted scum. And perhaps it will help me in the next life.

Korczak:

I'm sure that you will be in need of no help.

Mrs.:

Thank you.

Korczak:

I must go now; I don't like to be away from the children any more than I have to these days.

Mrs.:

I understand. It's good to have seen you again. I don't have many visitors anymore.

Korczak:

I wish it could have been more of a social visit.

Mrs.:

It's a pleasure to see you for any reason, doctor. (The scene fades and returns to the orphanage where a group of children sweep and dust under Stepha's supervision.)

Stepha:

That's excellent. Be careful dusting around the cracked window panes, Dorka. (Korczak enters.)

Korczak:

Good afternoon, everybody.

All:

Good afternoon, doctor.

Korczak:

Don't let me interrupt. Continue.

Stepha:

Did you see Mrs. Kalouski?

Korczak:

Yes, and she was very generous. She's sending clothes and food and gave me a substantial contribution.

Stepha:

How is her husband?

Korczak:

Holding on to life, though barely.

Stepha:

I hope he recovers.

Korczak:

So do I; he's a very brave man. The clothes will have to be altered.

Stepha:

Nothing will go to waste.

Korczak:

Good. How has everything been while I was away?

Stepha:

About the same. Sabina is still weak, but she was able to eat solid food today.

Korczak:

I'd better have a look at her.

Stepha:

She's sleeping now; I was up there a few minutes ago.

Korczak:

Have somebody continue checking on her, and I'll see her as soon as she wakes. I also managed to get fifty kilos of flour. Sarah's been complaining quite a bit about our need.

Stepha:

She mentioned it to me. That will be enough, children. The room looks lovely. Go play now. (The children leave.) The only thing that I think you should know is that Abrasha and Maryna are missing.

Korczak:

Missing!

Stepha:

Nobody's seen them since early this morning. They must have gone out right after breakfast.

Korczak:

Nobody knows where?

Stepha:

We've asked the other children, but nobody's seen them.

Korczak:

I hope they're not up to any mischief.

Stepha:

With Abrasha, one never knows, and Maryna worships him so that she'll follow wherever he leads.

Korczak:

If they haven't returned by dinner time, I'll go out and look for them. As mischievous as Abrasha may be, he wouldn't miss dinner. I don't think that there's really any need to worry about them.

Stepha:

I just wanted you to know. I'll go and tell Sarah about the flour.

Korczak:

While you do that, I'll see if the truck has arrived with the things from Mrs. Kalouski. (They exit separately.) A moment later. Abrasha and Maryna enter stealthily from above left carrying bundles.)

Abrasha:

No one's here. Hurry.

Maryna:

I've caught my dress.

Abrasha:

Sh! I'll help you.

Maryna:

No! I can do it. (She hurries into the room.) How often will we be able to do this without being found out?

Abrasha:

As often as is necessary. We'd better take these downstairs. Be quiet though. (They exit. A moment later. Sarah is heard offstage.)

Sarah:

What are you two doing here? Miss Stepha has been looking everywhere for you. What are you hiding there? Let me see it. I said let me see it, Abrasha. What are you doing with all of this. Miss Stepha! Come with me, both of you. Miss Stepha! (Enters with Abrasha and Maryna. Stepha enters followed by Korczak from the other side.) Miss.... Oh, here you are.

Stepha:

What is it?

Sarah:

I was working in the pantry, preparing a place for the flour when I heard noises that sounded like someone sneaking into the kitchen. When I looked to see what it was, I saw these two trying to sneak out with two bundles of groceries.

Korczak:

Abrasha?

Abrasha:

We were not sneaking out.

Sarah:

Then what were you doing, sneaking into the kitchen with groceries?

Abrasha:

Yes.

Sarah:

The effrontery of the little gangster. Someone should box his ears.

Maryna:

Abrasha's telling the truth, and he's not a gangster.

Sarah:

Maryna was an almost perfect child until she joined up with him.

Stepha:

Now just a minute. What were you doing in the kitchen, Abrasha?

Abrasha:

It doesn't matter.

Korczak:

Of course it matters. Since when does both sides of a dispute not matter?

Abrasha:

I'd rather not say what we were doing.

Sarah:

He can't say because he knows that he's been caught stealing.

Abrasha:

Think what you want.

Stepha:

What were you and Abrasha doing in the kitchen, Maryna?

Abrasha:

Don't tell them. Remember you swore to remain silent.

Stepha:

Since neither of you seem able to defend yourselves, we have to assume that Sarah is correct.

Maryna:

She is not.

Abrasha:

Quiet!

Maryna:

No. We're not thieves. We bought that food and were bringing it into the kitchen when Sarah caught us. We didn't know that she was there. We never stole anything.

Korczak:

Where did you get the money to buy groceries?

Abrasha:

We gathered what we had that we thought was of any value and sold it. We then bought whatever we could resell for a profit. When we'd done it a few times and made enough money, we bought groceries for the orphanage.

Stepha:

What did you sell?

Abrasha:

Whatever we could.

Korczak:

Such as?

Abrasha:

My watch and books.

Korczak:

Maryna?

Maryna:

My locket.

Stepha:

The one that your mother left you?

Maryna:

I didn't need it; it's more valuable this way.

Stepha:

Oh, Maryna!

Korczak:

Is anything missing from the pantry, Sarah?

Sarah:

(Takes a book from her pocket and checks it.) There doesn't seem to be.

Korczak:

Then I think you owe these two entrepreneurs an apology.

Sarah:

Yes. I ask your forgiveness for having judged you so rashly. I think that what you did was the most admirable thing that I've ever heard of.

Maryna:

You're forgiven.

Stepha:

Abrasha.

Abrasha:

(Hesitates) I forgive you also. But the next time you should think before you accuse; you've exposed our whole plan.

Sarah:

Again I ask your forgiveness. (She leaves.)

Korczak:

What you did was indeed admirable, but you should not have sold your few treasures.

Abrasha:

They were ours to do with as we please.

Korczak:

I didn't say that they weren't, but they might mean a great deal more to you in a few years.

Maryna:

We must survive today first.

Stepha:

Why should that be a problem?

Abrasha:

They will soon forbid Gentiles to sell anything to Jews including food. They mean to starve us.

Korczak:

Where did you hear that?

Abrasha:

I overheard the postman telling Miss Rosa.

Korczak:

You shouldn't believe everything that you hear.

Stepha:

And you shouldn't eaves drop.

Korczak:

Why should they give such an order? Many merchants would go bankrupt without their Jewish customers.

Abrasha:

They've already forbidden Gentiles to patronize Jewish merchants. How long can it be before they forbid them to sell to Jews?

Maryna:

And then they'll forbid them to live near us.

Korczak:

And if all you say comes true, what purpose is served by selling your locket? Is selling your watch going to stop it? Tomorrow, I want you to redeem your possessions. If the people to whom you've sold them refuse, I'll go myself and get them back.

Abrasha:

Yes, sir. (Korczak goes to his office where he sits behind his desk.)

Stepha:

Go and prepare for dinner now. (She follows Korczak and sits before the desk.)

Maryna:

Why didn't you tell them about the soldiers tormenting those old Jewish men?

Abrasha:

They'll learn of it soon enough. Let's make our plans for tomorrow; we'll have to find a place to store the food until it's needed, someplace where only you and I know about it.

Maryna:

I think I know just the place.

Abrasha:

Let's look at it. (They go off.)

Korczak:

I'm worried about the effect of all these rumors on the children.

Stepha:

It's their accuracy that frightens me. No sooner do we hear some unbelievable story than it turns out to be true. It's not to be wondered that they're nervous.

Korczak:

I wish there were some way that we could protect them from it all.

Stepha:

That's a strange thing for you to say.

Korczak:

These are strange times. It's not just another war or another pogrom; it's a methodical attack on an entire people. Who knows where it will end?

Stepha:

We cannot hide the world from the children or the children from the world. They must be a part of it. Remember?

Korczak:

You needn't quote my own words to me.

Rosa:

(Offstage) Doctor! Doctor! (She enters looking about.) Doctor?

Korczak:

Yes, Rosa? I'm here.

Rosa:

Oh. This message was just delivered by the most frightening man I've ever seen.

Stepha:

A Pole?

Rosa:

No. At least I don't think so. I hope not. He had a long red scar and only one eye.

Korczak:

Are you going to give it to me or keep it for yourself?

Rosa:

Oh! Excuse me.

Korczak:

(Reading the message) I've been instructed to report immediately to the Ministry of Public Welfare to see a Mr. Yaacov Viszinski.

Stepha:

Now?

Korczak:

That's what immediately means I believe.

Stepha:

Does it give a reason?

Korczak:

No.

Rosa:

What could they want?

Korczak:

I don't know, but I'm sure they'll tell me when I get there.

Rosa:

Maybe you shouldn't go.

Korczak:

I have to go.

Stepha:

I'll go with you.

Korczak:

You will stay here and look after the children. I shouldn't be very long. (They watch him go out.)

Rosa:

What could they want?

Stepha:

I don't know. There's no reason to be anxious though; he's been to see officials hundreds of times.

Rosa:

At this time of day, and immediately?

Stepha:

We'd better attend to the children's dinner before Sarah comes looking for us. (They go out while Korczak enters Viszinski's office. Viszinski is a middle aged man with soft features and urbane manner; he wears an arm band with the Star of David on it. A young man in a business suit joins them.)

Vis. :

Doctor Korczak, how are you?

Korczak:

All right.

Vis .:

It's an honor to meet you; I've been aware of your work for some time now. Won't you sit down?

Korczak:

Thank you.

Vis .:

This is Mr. Mueller. He's been placed in charge of the Office of Public Welfare.

Korczak:

How do you do? (Mueller nods.)

Vis .:

And I have been placed in charge of Jewish welfare organizations by this office.

Korczak:

Yes?

Vis .:

Well, there is no point in avoiding. We'd best get right to the point. The first thing that I must tell you is that the office is no longer able to contribute financially to the orphanage that you direct.

Korczak:

Not at all!

Vis .:

I'm sorry.

Korczak:

But the contribution has already been reduced almost to nothing while the number of children has almost doubled; surely you can continue such small assistance.

Vis .:

The funds are needed for more important uses.

Korczak:

What could be more important than the care of children? They are our future.

Vis. :

I do not have the authority to discuss that.

Korczak:

Is it possible to appeal this decision?

Mueller:

No.

Vis .:

It's not only the orphanage that's being effected, doctor.

Korczak:

That doesn't make it any easier.

Vis .:

I must also inform you that the orphanage is to be moved. The government needs the building that it now occupies for a shoe factory.

Korczak:

The orphanage owns that building.

Vis .:

Another has been found to house the children.

Korczak:

Where?

Vis .:

I'm not at liberty to say yet. But I can tell you that an area of the city is being set aside for the resettlement of Warsaw's Jews. The new orphanage will be located in that area. It will be a building of comparable size.

Korazak:

Resettlement?

Vis .:

Yes. (There is a long embarrassed silence.) It's for our own protection. There have been an increasing number of attacks on Jews by Polish hooligans lately. It's believed that the best way to protect us from these people is by placing us together where we will be away from the hooligans.

Korczak:

And who is to protect us from the protectors? It's they whom we should fear, not a few misguided Poles.

Vis .:

It is for the best, doctor.

Korczak:

I'm sure that it is. Do you know where the resettlement area is to be?

Vis .:

I'm not at liberty to say.

Mueller:

You and everybody else will be told at the appropriate time. You're being informed now so that you may make the necessary preparations.

Korczak:

I suppose that we should take only what's necessary.

Vis .:

That would be best.

Korczak:

So, all of Warsaw's Jews are to be placed in an urban concentration camp.

Mueller:

Let me ask you something, doctor. Why do you use the name Janusz Korczak when your real name is Henryk Goldszmitt?

Korczak:

Korczak is a pseudonym, a pen name, nothing more.

Mueller:

I am quite aware of the meaning of pseudonym. However, Korczak is the name by which you are most well known.

Korczak:

My real name is common knowledge.

Mueller:

In Warsaw perhaps, but elsewhere you are known by your Gentile pseudonym. Why didn't you choose a Jewish name?

Korczak:

I don't see that it matters.

Mueller:

But we do.

Korczak:

We?

Mueller:

You haven't answered my question.

Korczak:

I needed a pen name for a literary competition that I had entered and took it from a rather poor historical novel I'd been reading.

Mueller:

Did you?

Korczak:

Yes, I did. Perhaps I should have first located the author and investigated the character's genealogy, but, you see, the deadline was fast approaching and entering the competition seemed more important at the time than the religious beliefs of a fictional character's ancestors. However, you'll be pleased to learn that subsequent investigation has revealed that his maternal grandmother was one-eighth Cherokee Indian and one-eighth Jewish.

Mueller:

Was she?

Korczak:

Would I lie to you?

Mueller:

I've been informed that you possess a sense of humor. Be that as it may, what you are telling me is that you chose the name Janusz Korczak purely by chance rather than to hide that you are a Jew?

Korczak:

I had no more reason then to hide my Jewishness then than I do now. Quite the contrary, I've always been proud of it and remain so .

Mueller:

Proud! I see that I've been misinformed about you.

Korczak:

How is that?

Mueller:

I was told that you had a spark of intelligence.

Korczak:

Considering how rare bonfires are, I suppose I should be flattered.

Mueller:

Isn't it true that you adopted a Gentile name in order to increase the sale of your books knowing that only a few Jews would read the writings of another Jew?

Korczak:

If I did, I've made a dreadful error. So few seem to read the work of what they believe to be a Gentile that the royalties are hardly enough to keep me in tobacco. Perhaps the scholarly heritage of the Jews would have helped to increase them.

Mueller:

Perhaps the royalties are so low because of the absurd theories they contain. Haven't you anything else to do, Viszinski? You're no longer needed here.

Vis .:

Yes, as a matter of fact I have much to do. If you'll excuse me, doctor.

Korczak:

Certainly. (He leaves attempting to maintain his dignity as he does so.)

Mueller:

He's an old fool, but he tries hard.

Korczak:

He seems to be a fine man.

Mueller:

A product of your scholarly heritage? You really have got a sense of humor, Goldszmitt.

Korczak:

Have I?

Mueller:

Yes. I flatter myself that I'm something of an intellectual, yet I know of not a single Jew that has had a lasting influence on the history of mankind.

Korczak:

You do indeed flatter yourself then.

Mueller:

Can you name one?

Korczak:

There are many, so many that it's difficult to choose.

Mueller:

You're trying to evade the question.

Korczak:

Moses.

Mueller:

A misguided Egyptian; he's often named.

Korczak:

I see that you've played this game before.

Mueller:

Never with one so well known. I had hoped that you would prove a more worthy adversary, but I see that you are just another of the same pseudo intellect that I've found among your tribe.

Korczak:

I'm sorry that you're disappointed. I have more important things to do than play games though.

Mueller:

You were asked here...

Korczak:

Ordered here.

Mueller:

I sent for you so that you may prepare your charges to vacate 92 Krachmalna Street when necessary. You've been informed, you may go.

Korczak:

Good day.

Mueller:

Goldszmitt. There are penalties for Jews who do not wear the star. I'd suggest that you begin doing so immediately. (Korczak leaves. Stepha paces anxiously. Rosa enters.)

Rosa:

Has he returned yet?

Stepha:

No. He should be back soon though.

Rosa:

If he comes back at all.

Stepha:

Why shouldn't he come back?

Rosa:

I don't know. Why does anyone not come back? Who knows what they do or why?

Stepha:

He only went to the Office of Public Welfare.

Rosa:

And who but they are in charge of the Office of Public Welfare and public everything else? Even an ostrich would know that.

Stepha:

We're allowing our fears to take control of our imaginations.

Rosa:

I'm sorry, Miss Stepha. I don't know what's got into me. (Korczak enters.)

Stepha:

Here he is. Henryk, what did they want?

Korczak:

It wasn't they, it was he, and all he really wanted to do was demonstrate his arrogant stupidity.

Rosa:

Mr. Viszinski?

Korczak:

No, of course not. He's just a figurehead, and a pitiful one at that. There's a fellow named Mueller who's actually in charge.

Stepha:

What did he do?

Korczak:

Nothing of any importance; it's what they're going to do that troubles me. They're going to move all of the city's Jews to one area, including the orphanage.

Rosa:

Just as they did in Lodz.

Korczak:

That was my first thought also. We'll be pushed into a ghetto to live like animals in a zoo, or die.

Stepha:

It's almost time for the younger children to be put to bed. Will you see to it, Rosa?

Rosa:

I forgot how late it is; I'll see to it right away. (She goes off.)

Stepha:

I'm not surprised they're doing this.

Korczak:

Neither am I. I've been expecting it for months now. Perhaps fearing it would be a better word. You should have returned to Palestine when you had the opportunity.

Stepha:

We've been through that already. Besides, who would look after you if I'd left?

Korczak:

I'm quite capable of looking after myself.

Stepha:

Maybe, but with me here, you don't have to prove it. When are we to move?

Korczak:

He didn't say when or even where to. Just that we should prepare and take only what we need. They'll probably loot whatever we leave behind.

Stepha:

We don't have anything that's worth looting. And even if we did, Abrasha would dispose of it before they could get to it. We'll begin getting ready in the morning.

Korczak:

I hope there's room for a garden there. (Sarah enters Viszinski's office and sits down. He enters a moment later.)

Vis .:

Good afternoon, madame. You wish to see me?

Sarah:

Are you Mr. Viszinski?

Vis .: Yes.

Sarah:

Then you are who I wish to see.

Vis .: About what?

Sarah:

My name is Sarah Falska, sir. I'm a single woman of, as you can see, mature years. I have lived my entire life in Warsaw and hope to be buried here one day, in the distant future of course.

Vis .:

We are all attached to our native soil, madame, but why have you come to see me?

Sarah:

Ever since the notices were posted ordering all Jews to relocate to the new settlement area, I've been going from office to office until I was finally referred to you as the person in charge of the relocation of the children. You see, sir, I am the cook at the Jewish Orphanage and have suffered a great deal because of it. But I've been with Dr. Korczak and Miss Stepha for over ten years now and have grown quite fond of them and the children, though I wouldn't tell them of course.

Vis.:

This is all quite touching, but what do you wish of me?

Sarah:

I would like to go with them to the new orphanage.

Vis.:

But you are not Jewish.

Sarah:

No, sir. That's plain to see, but I've been with them for so long that I'm practically one of them.

Vis.:

Non-Jews are forbidden to enter the Jewish area.

Sarah:

That's why I'm here.

Vis.:

There are no exceptions, I'm sorry. Even if I wished to make one, I haven't the authority.

Sarah:

Then who does have the authority?

Vis .:

No one. Please Miss

Sarah:

Falska.

Vis.:

Miss Falska, please give up this idea. I'm sure that the Christian Orphanage would be quite pleased to have your services, but what you ask can only bring you grief.

Sarah:

Surely somebody in Warsaw has the authority to make one exception.

Vis .:

Nobody.

Sarah:

What's wrong with all of you. You act as though I were asking to be canonized. Who is your superior?

Vis .:

Please, madame.

Sarah:

Don't you "please, madame" me. I intend to get what I've come for. If you haven't the authority to deal with my request, I'll find someone who has.

Vis .:

Very well. Would you wait here please?

Sarah:

Certainly. (Viszinski leaves. After a few moments Mueller enters.)

Mueller:

I understand that you've requested permission to remain with the Jewish Orphanage when it relocates.

Sarah:

Yes, sir. Have you the authority to deal with my request?

Mueller:

I have, but what you ask cannot be granted. There will be no exceptions. I'm sorry.

Sarah:

But, sir, I'm an old maid with no family; I have no one but Dr. Korczak and the children. To leave them would be almost like losing my life. It's so little to ask.

Mueller:

There will be no exceptions. Good day, madame.

Sarah:

But, sir...

Mueller:

Get out.

Sarah:

I beg your pardon!

Mueller:

Get out or I'll have you thrown into the street. (Sarah hurries out)

End Act II

Act III

The orphanage within the walls of the Warsaw Ghetto. The set is much the same except that rather than French doors there is a single sash window with broken panes that have been glued together and the walls are cracked and peeling. Outside the window is a brick wall atop which are strands of barbed wire. There is a walkway for guards just below the top.

Stepha is hanging a curtain over the window while Rosa and two of the older children scrub the floor with water from a single bucket. Korczak enters carrying books and still wearing his uniform, though it is now threadbare, and the Star of David on a band around his right arm. His office is now on the platform at stage left and is represented by an old scarred table and folding chairs.

Korczak:

You've done wonders with that window, Stepha.

Children:

(Rise) Good afternoon, doctor.

Korczak:

Good afternoon. The floor also looks much better. This place may yet become liveable.

Stepha:

I wish it had a better view.

Korczak:

And I wish there was room for a garden. Sometimes we have to settle. (Rosa sobs.) Are you all right, Rosa? Is something wrong?

Rosa:

No, sir, nothing's wrong. Everything is wrong.

Korczak:

(To the children) Would you please excuse us for a few minutes? You must need a rest after the work you put in making this floor look so good. (They leave.)

Rosa:

The floor looks terrible. How are we to clean anything when the only water that we can get for it is filled with rust and dirt? And we have to fight to get a bucket of that. It's impossible to clean anything with one bucket of dirty water and a few rags.

Korczak:

It may be difficult, but it's not impossible. As you can see yourself it's much cleaner than when we arrived. You haven't taken the time to look at it.

Rosa:

Even if the water was clean, there's no soap. And even if there were soap and clean water, none of us has the strength to scrub properly. I've lost five and a half kilos since we've been here.

Korczak:

So that's it. The rationing is necessary for the children, Rosa. For you such a weight loss may be uncomfortable, but for a child it could be fatal. We must remember that the children are our purpose.

Rosa:

I know that, but must we take every child that's found in the street? We already have more than we can care for, yet another was taken in this morning and still another just an hour ago. No doubt we'll have to cut our rations again.

Korczak:

Probably.

Rosa:

But why must we keep taking them?

Korczak:

Because they have no place else to go. I have no desire to have more than we can properly care for, but we can't leave them in the streets, and we certainly can't ask our keepers to look after them.

Rosa:

There's not enough food for those already here.

Korczak:

Then I will have to work harder at finding more. Until I do though, you may have half of my ration. Now don't protest; I never seem to have much of an appetite anyway.

Rosa:

No, I couldn't. Forgive me for being so selfish. I don''t know what must have made me such a weepy old chatterbox.

Korczak:

Not at all. At least you have the courage to get on a scale. And if you will allow me to say so, you look lovely as you are. The weight loss has been a blessing in disguise. You've gone from a pretty girl to a lovely woman.

Rosa:

Thank you, doctor.

Korczak:

But tears only distort that beauty, and frighten the children. (Going toward his office.) The floor really is sufficiently clean, though you might try sand next time.

Rosa:

Sand?

Korczak:

Yes. It's an abrasive. Wet it a bit and rub it over the floor. It will scrub the grime away.

Rosa:

I'll try that.

Korczak:

Next time; you've done enough for today. Rest yourself for a bit. There's plenty more to be done.

Rosa:

Yes, doctor. (She leaves.)

Stepha:

I was beginning to worry about her; she didn't seem to adjust too well to our new circumstances.

Korczak:

She's fine, just a passing fit of self pity is all. We're all of us prey to that I'm afraid.

Stepha:

Even you?

Korczak:

Even me. I've finally found these books that I've been looking for. They were at the bottom of a trunkful of bedding. (Abrasha and Maryna enter.)

Abrasha:

Hello, doctor. Miss Stepha.

Korczak:

Hello to both of you.

Maryna:

Good afternoon.

Stepha:

What do you have there?

Maryna:

We went back to the old building and dug up some of the doctor's flowers. (Stepha and Korczak come back down.)

Stepha:

Abrasha! You know you're forbidden to leave the ghetto.

Abrasha:

Nobody saw us. We found a couple of pots, put the flowers in them and brought them here. (Korczak says nothing for a moment, apparently thrilled and touched.)

Korczak:

Thank you. I was just saying how I missed the garden. I've never received a gift that has meant so much to me. But you shouldn't have taken such a risk.

Maryna:

There was no risk at all. We just went there, got them and came back.

Stepha:

How did you get by the guards?

Abrasha:

We went through a hole in the wall that the guards don't know about.

Stepha:

You mustn't go out again.

Korczak:

I'll put them right here on the window sill. Thank you again, both of you.

Maryna:

You're welcome. (The children hurry off.)

Korczak:

What do you think of that, Stepha? They took the most beautiful one in the whole garden.

Stepha:

They are beautiful. But it's dangerous for them to go outside. You should discourage them.

Korczak:

It's dangerous for them to stay inside also. (He goes to the office. Stepha follows.)

Stepha:

I know that, Henryk, but the danger of their being found outside the ghetto is so much greater.

Korczak:

I'll speak to them. Though I don't know that it will do any good. You know Abrasha as well as I do.

Stepha:

We must try anyway. You look very tired.

Korczak:

I've had a difficult day. The people in the ghetto are more concerned with their own problems than with the children 's. Most are hoarding what little they have. I can't really blame them, but were it not for our friends outside, and the ghetto charities, we'd be in an impossible situation.

Stepha:

How much longer will the people outside be able to help?

Korczak:

Who knows? As long as I can leave here to speak to them I'd imagine. (Smiles) I stopped at Howlutz's store this morning and ordered ten sacks of wheat to be ground into flour. He said that he would like to help the children, but that it is forbidden to sell anything to Jews. I replied that it is not forbidden to make a gift of it though. (Laughs wearily) You would have thought that I'd told him his wife was an angel. After he'd gathered his wits, he asked if I thought that it had been a gift to him. I said no, but that I would be happy to make a gift of its cost if he would make a gift of the grain.

Stepha:

What did he say?

Korczak:

That he would be happy to exchange gifts. He gave it to us at the price that he had paid for it. He's always been a good and generous man.

Stepha:

There are few like him.

Korczak:

There are too many not like him.

Stepha:

I'd better go now; there's still much to do. I can't believe that we've been here so many weeks but still haven't got half the building in order.

Korczak:

Perhaps you place too much importance on order.

Stepha:

It's what makes it possible for us to function. I'll talk to you later.

Korczak:

Promise?

Stepha:

I promise. (She leaves while Korczak watches after her. Rosa enters.)

Rosa:

Doctor?

Korczak:

Yes, Rosa. I'm up here.

Rosa:

There's a lady here that wishes to see you. She says that you know her.

Korczak:

What is her name?

Rosa:

She didn't say. She's very beautiful.

Korczak:

Where is she?

Rosa:

Waiting in the hall.

Korczak:

Well bring her up. (Rosa goes and returns with Mrs. Kalouski.)

Rosa:

Right this way, please.

Mrs.:

Hello, doctor.

Korczak:

Mrs. Kalouski! What are you doing here?

Mrs.:

I've come to ask a favor of you.

Korczak:

Please, sit down. Can I offer you anything? Rosa, would you get some coffee please?

Mrs.:

No. Please don't bother.

Rosa:

If you'll excuse me. (She leaves.)

Korczak:

Forgive my surprise at seeing you here. I had no idea.

Mrs.:

My parents were Jews which is enough for them. So when my husband died....

Korczak:

I heard about it. I'm sorry; he was a good man.

Mrs.:

Thank you. When he died, they ordered me to move here. I know nobody else here except you though I'm not proud of the fact, and I thought that perhaps you might be able to help me.

Korczak:

If I can.

Mrs.:

I have no one, nor any place to go. I've been sharing an apartment with two families, but it's so crowded already that I feel in the way. Therefore I've come to you to ask if I couldn't come here and help with the children. I can do laundry and cook and clean or whatever you need. I realize that I might not be as proficient as those who are already here, but I think that I could be helpful. And, of course, I would not expect any kind of compensation.

Korczak:

These are hard times, Mrs. Kalouski. We need all the help that we can get. We'll be happy to have you.

Mrs.:

Thank you, doctor. (She begins to weep.)

Korczak:

It is we who should thank you. Would you excuse me for a moment?

Mrs.:

Of course. (He descends.)

Korczak:

Rosa. (Rosa enters.) Where's Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

(Offstage) I'm right here, Henryk. (Enters) What is it?

Korczak:

Would you both come with me please? This is Mrs. Kalouski. This is my assistant, Stepha, and our housekeeper, Rosa, whom you've already met.

Mrs.:

How do you do?

Stepha:

I'm happy to meet you.

Korczak:

Mrs. Kalouski is going to join us and help with the children.

Stepha:

Is she? You're certainly welcome; we need the help.

Rosa:

I'm delighted. We'll have to find a place for you to sleep; we're a bit crowded--but I think we'll manage.

Stepha:

We have a few cots left if you don't mind the discomfort.

Mrs.:

Not at all.

Korczak:

Do you have many things?

Mrs.:

Very few. They took almost everything.

Korczak:

We'll send someone around for them.

Rosa:

Why don't you come with me, and I'll help you get settled. (They go.) The work is constant, and the meals small, but we manage.

Stepha:

Another mouth to feed.

Korczak:

She has nowhere else. Besides, you and Rosa need the help.

Stepha:

I'm not going to argue with that. (The scene fades. Abrasha and Maryna appear on the platform at stage right.)

Abrasha:

Be quiet! The guards will hear us.

Maryna:

I didn't make any noise. Look out!

Abrasha:

I see him.

Maryna:

Maybe we shouldn't do this anymore, Abrasha.

Abrasha:

How else are we to keep from starving?

Maryna:

Someone else could do it.

Abrasha:

Who?

Maryna:

I don't know.

Abrasha:

You can stay inside if you want, but I'm going out.

Maryna:

No! I won't stay.

Abrasha:

Let's go then. (They leave. Stepha enters at stage center: she is weary and thinner than when last seen. She carries a clipboard to the doctor's office and leaves it on the desk. As she comes back down. three children enter. Two sweep while the third dusts. Stepha watches silently. After they've finished. Rosa enters and inspects.)

Rosa:

Very good. You may go and play until dinner. Dorka.

Dorka:

Yes, Miss Rosa.

Rosa:

I'd like you to help in the kitchen later this afternoon. Mrs. Kalouski needs someone to help with the table.

Dorka:

Yes, Ma'am. (The children leave.)

Rosa:

How are the weights this week?

Stepha:

Much better than I had expected. Children are remarkable creatures.

Rosa:

So the doctor always says. I wish I had their resiliency.

Stepha:

I wish I had their energy. The poor quality of the food may soon take its toll though.

Rosa:

Maybe it will improve if only to that of the first months that we were here.

Stepha:

At least we can hope. Who knows how long we'll be able to do even that. (Korczak enters. He is bent and weary, his beard greyer, his uniform even more threadbare. He appears much older.)

Korczak:

Good afternoon, ladies. How are you today?

Rosa:

Fine, doctor.

Korczak:

Did you weigh the children?

Stepha:

The results are on your desk.

Korczak:

How are you?

Stepha:

A slight loss by some; most have managed to maintain their weight though. How has your day been?

Korczak:

People hide when they see me coming now, especially the merchants and black marketeers. I managed to get more vitamins and some fresh milk though. Also some fruit; most of it is soft, but I thought that Mrs. Kalouski might be able to use it for some kind of dessert.

Rosa:

I'm sure she'll be able to make something. Everybody will be pleased to have a dessert. (There's a commotion offstage.)

Korczak:

What is that?

Rosa:

I'll go see. (As she starts off, a Jewish policeman brings Abrasha and Maryna on.)

Abrasha:

Take your filthy hands off me, you traitor. You gutless lackey.

Maryna:

Boot licking coward.

Korczak:

What is this?

Abrasha:

Let me go.

Stepha:

Abrasha! (Rosa takes them from the policeman.)

Maryna:

Son of a bitch.

Rosa:

That's enough now.

Korczak:

What is the meaning of this, Isaac?

Policeman:

I caught them coming through a hole in the wall carrying food in.

Korczak:

Smuggling?

Abrasha:

Yes. We have to live somehow.

Maryna:

We'd have got much more had this half a man not interfered.

Policeman:

They're fortunate that I caught them rather than one of the other Jewish police, doctor. You've seen yourself how some of them treat their own people.

Korczak:

Such distinctions are difficult for children to make. I'm sure they'll understand after they've had time to think.

Policeman:

They'd have no time to do anything if the soldiers had seen them.

Stepha:

Thank you for bringing them here.

Policeman:

I'd better get back to my post.

Korczak:

Thank you, Isaac. (The policeman leaves. Maryna spits after him.) Maryna! What's got into you?

Stepha:

He may have saved your lives.

Abrasha:

He also took our goods like he does those of all the others he's caught. His family is growing fat while those around them starve.

Stepha:

It's little enough to pay for your lives. They shot two smugglers last week who were hardly older than you.

Maryna:

What difference does it make if we die now or a month from now? Either way we're trapped here.

Rosa:

What do you mean die now or a month from now?

Abrasha:

Haven't you heard about the death camps? Where do you think the people being deported are going, to America?

Korczak:

Those are only rumors.

Maryna:

We believe them.

Rosa:

They can't possibly be true. Who ever heard of such a thing?

Korczak:

The change that's come over you two worries me. You're becoming hard and crude as though you've forgotten everything that you've been taught.

Abrasha:

We should have been taught to use weapons so that we could defend ourselves. You've wasted our time with childrens' parliaments and nonsense. What good has it done us? What do the beasts that have caged us here know about such things?

Stepha:

Abrasha! (A guard passes the window walking along the wall.)

Abrasha:

There's your democratic nonsense.

Stepha:

Stop it.

Abrasha:

Ask him about parliaments and law courts. Him and those who are struggling to survive here. (Stepha slaps him. To Maryna.) Let's go. (He leaves. Maryna hesitates, then follows. A long silence follows their departure.)

Korczak:

It's wrong to strike a child, Stepha.

Stepha:

I know, Henryk. They've collected some strange ideas. (Korczak does not reply.) I'm sure he didn't mean all that he said.

Rosa:

Of course he didn't. He was just upset about the police is all. (Korczak does not reply. The scene fades.)

(Viszinski's office where he sits at his desk. Mueller enters and places a paper before him.)

Mueller:

Read this. Do you understand what it means?

Vis.:

What can they do there? How can they be of any use?

Mueller:

You're a bigger fool that I thought. It's not what they can do there; it's that they're of no use here. They only use up valuable food. (Sarcastically) It's more plentiful there.

Vis .:

Is it? Where in the east?

Mueller:

(After a moment) You will soon have the privilege of seeing with your own eyes.

Vis .:

I?

Mueller:

Send a message to Goldszmitt. Have him come here Friday afternoon. (The scene fades.)

(Stepha opens the window and takes the flowers in as Rosa enters.)

Rosa:

Has the rain helped them?

Stepha:

A bit.

Rosa:

Perhaps the doctor won't have to share his drinking water with them now.

Stepha:

At least not for a few days. He complimented you to me this morning.

Rosa:

What did he say?

Stepha:

That after visiting so many places every day, it's a pleasure to return here where things are almost normal.

Rosa:

That's a compliment to you not me.

Stepha:

I haven't finished. He said that after seeing how many people pay little attention to their surroundings it makes him feel good to see the condition in which you keep the orphanage. He added that you've become an excellent housekeeper.

Rosa:

I'm flattered, but it's a group effort and just as much your work as mine.

Stepha:

You're being modest. It is you who has worked hardest and deserves praise.

Rosa:

Thank you. I wish I could do even more to help him.

Stepha

I've been trying to do that for longer than I care to admit.

(Maryna and Abrasha enter.)

Abrasha:

Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

Yes?

Abrasha:

May we speak with you for a moment?

Stepha:

Certainly.

Rosa:

I'd better see to the mending that must be done.

Maryna:

We'd like to speak with you also, Miss Rosa.

Abrasha:

And the doctor.

Stepha:

He's not here at the moment; he just left for an appointment.

Abrasha:

We want to apologize for our behavior the other day. Especially for the way I spoke to the doctor.

Stepha:

He'll be happy to hear it, but I think it would be best for you to tell him yourselves; he should be back in an hour or so.

Abrasha:

We'll see him then. (Turns to leave.)

Stepha:

Abrasha, I wish that you would give up smuggling; it's very dangerous.

Abrasha:

We don't do it for ourselves.

Stepha:

I know that, but the little that it can accomplish is not worth the risk.

Maryna:

We also enjoy it.

Rosa:

It's like tweaking the nose of a sleeping lion to see what color his eyes are. You won't enjoy it if they find you out.

Stepha:

You would do better to help occupy the younger children. It's very difficult for them, and they don't have your understanding of the situation.

Abrasha:

We'll try. (They turn to go.)

Stepha:

Abrasha.

Abrasha:

Yes?

Stepha:

Be careful, both of you. (They go off as the scene fades.)

(Korczak enters Viszinski's office. Viszinski is not there. Mueller enters a moment later.)

Mueller:

Good afternoon, Goldszmitt. We haven't seen each other in quite some time. How are you?

Korczak:

I have an appointment with Mr. Viszinski.

Mueller:

It was I who sent for you. Won't you sit down?

Korczak:

What do you want of me?

Mueller:

You don't look well. I've heard a great deal about how hard you work to keep the orphanage running. You're to be commended.

Korczak:

Have I been ordered here to be congratulated on the work that you make necessary?

Mueller:

No. I've asked you here to inform you that the orphanage is to be relocated again.

Korczak:

There's no other building in the ghetto sufficiently large for an orphanage; even the present building is too small.

Mueller:

It's being moved out of Warsaw, to the east. Viszinski has already gone ahead to make arrangements. The present building is to be converted into a blanket factory.

Korczak:

Where in the east?

Mueller:

I haven't been given that information; they will be informed either en route or when they reach their destination.

Korczak:

Where was Viszinski sent? That would give us some idea at least.

Mueller:

(Looks at Korczak for a moment.) Unlike Viszinski, you are reputed to be a very clever man, Goldszmitt. Surely you cannot at the same time be so ingenuous. Any fool could discern the answer for himself. But perhaps you don't understand because you don't want to. I'll make it a bit more clear. What purpose would be served by supporting a group of unwanted children when the war forces us to use what resources we have as efficiently as possible? Resources that are needed elsewhere to insure victory. The children must be disposed of.

Korczak:

Disposed of?

Mueller:

I'm afraid so. Well? Aren't you going to say anything?

Korczak:

They're only children, harmless children.

Mueller:

Harmless, but also useless to the war effort.

Korczak:

You can't be serious.

Mueller:

I have my orders.

Korczak:

Did you bring me here to gloat? Why don't you just carry out your orders?

Mueller:

I've called you here to tell you that the order does not apply to you personally. Doctors are scarce at present. Therefore, you will remain in Warsaw to care for the health of those who work for us.

Korczak:

You expect me to help keep your slave laborers alive so that you can work them to death?

Mueller:

As you like. You may of course join your charges. The choice is yours.

Korczak:

You're always offering choices, aren't you?

Mueller:

This is the choice between life and death. We are aware that there have been rumors concerning the existence of so called death camps. Whether these stories are true or not is unimportant. That they are told is what concerns us. Relocating the children amidst such rumors could cause a great deal of unrest, perhaps even rioting, and though we have sufficient resources to deal with any such contingency, it would be best to avoid the possibility entirely. That is where you can be helpful to us and at the same time help yourself. Your influence over the children can keep them from causing a scene that might incite some foolish rabble to attempt something rash, something that would cause a great deal of suffering to, among others, the children themselves. We would like this to be done as efficiently as possible. Do you understand me, Goldszmitt? Well? What is your answer?

Korczak:

The children will cause no trouble.

Mueller:

Very good. If there is any assistance that I can give you, please just ask.

Korczak:

Am I supposed to say thank you?

Mueller:

I realize, doctor, that I seem to you a harsh and unfeeling person, and perhaps I am. However, I get no pleasure from this. I've been placed in a terrible position against my will. Rather than carry out these orders, I sent my resignation to Berlin, but it was refused. I don't believe in making war on children. Believe it or not, even I have a conscience.

Korczak:

(After a moments silence.) I hope you will forgive me if I'm a bit short on sympathy at the moment.

Mueller:

Go back and prepare your charges, Goldszmitt. It is they who need your sympathy, not me. I will be here for quite some time yet. (He goes off angrily.)

Korczak:

How am I to prepare them for this? How does one tell them? Or does one tell them at all? Oh, God, whatever we have done to bring this wrath down upon us, please help us now. Please help me. Please help them. Tell me how to prepare them to meet you. I do not know what to do. (The scene fades.)

(Stepha paces anxiously. Korczak enters.)

Stepha:

Thank God you're back. I was worried that you'd been gone so long. Is something wrong? Are you ill?

Korczak:

No, I'm all right, Stepha. (He goes to his office and sits. Stepha follows.) The orphanage is to be relocated; they want the building for a blanket factory.

Stepha:

The last time it was shoes. Meanwhile we can get neither shoes nor blankets. Where are we going now?

Korczak:

To the east somewhere; he didn't say exactly where.

Stepha:

Did you ask?

Korczak:

Of course I asked. He said that he couldn't tell me; he didn't know himself, I don't think. All he said is that we're to be relocated to the east.

Stepha:

There are rumors that these relocations are to be concentration camps from which no one returns.

Korczak:

They're only rumors.

Stepha:

But what if they're true? What if we've been condemned.

Korczak:

What can we do? We're powerless to stop it now if ever we could stop it. They have decided our fate, the Muellers of this world, and we must follow it.

Stepha:

Our fate? What do you mean, Henryk? There is something that you're not telling me. What is it?

Korczak:

There's nothing, Stepha. We are to be relocated, that's all I know.

Stepha:

We must save the children.

Korczak:

Save them? How are we to save them? We can't make them disappear or give them wings to fly away. If I could save them, don't you think I would?

Stepha:

We can't make them fly but we must get them out somehow, even if only one.

Korczak:

And if we got them out, how would they live? Where would they go? Who would care for them? If they were captured, they'd be shot. Even if they got away, they might die of exposure and starvation.

Stepha:

But they'd have a chance to survive. They don't have that here, nor will they have it where we're going. We've got to get as many out as we can.

Korczak:

(After a pause.) You're right. I don't know what I must have been thinking. Don't tell anybody yet, not even Rosa. I'll try to get word out that we need help. It may not do any good but I'll do what I can. (He goes out. Two boys chase each other playfully. They're soon joined by others.)

Israel:

I can't run anymore.

Felix:

Neither can I, but you're it.

Israel:

All right, I'm it. I give up.

Felix:

(To the others) Israel is it.

Moniushe:

Is the game over?

Felix:

I'm too tired to play anymore.

Israel:

Me too.

Stepha:

You're all flushed and perspiring.

All:

Good afternoon, Miss Stepha.

Stepha:

Good afternoon. What have you been doing?

Felix:

Playing tag.

Stepha:

You shouldn't allow yourselves to get so heated. Would one of you go and fetch Miss Rosa for me?

Israel:

I'll go.

Felix:

Me too.

Moniushe:

Let's all go.

Israel:

Okay. (Tags Moniushe) Moniushe is it. (They chase each other out.)

Stepha:

Careful now, not so fast. I might as well caution the wind. (She turns to the window where she inspects the flowers.)

Rosa:

(Enters) Did you want to see me?

Stepha:

Yes. These are doing poorly again.

Rosa:

We haven't had much rain lately, and the doctor's been too busy to care for them. I'll get some water.

Stepha:

That can wait.

Rosa:

Is there something else?

Stepha:

No, not really. I just wanted to mention the flowers to you.

Rosa:

Are you all right, Miss Stepha?

Stepha:

Yes, I'm fine. Why do you ask?

Rosa:

You seem pale and worried.

Stepha:

Isn't that the norm here? I'm all right. What have the children been saying among themselves? Do you know?

Rosa:

Nothing unusual. There have been rumors that the orphanage is to be relocated again, that's all.

Stepha:

Who told you that?

Rosa:

Maryna told me yesterday. I told her not to listen to idle gossip and that, even if it's true, it couldn't be any worse there than it is here. Have you heard anything?

Stepha:

Just rumors. Do Abrasha and Maryna still go out of the ghetto?

Rosa:

I suspect so but I'm not sure. I don't ask.

Stepha:

That's the wisest course I suppose.

Rosa:

What food they manage to find has been very helpful. That the children are not worse than they are is probably due to them.

Stepha:

Hopefully they can keep it up, if they are doing it.

Rosa:

Are you sure that you're all right, Miss Stepha. Maybe you should lie down until the doctor returns. I'll see if Mrs. Kalouski can't spare a bit of tea or some milk.

Stepha:

No, I'm fine. We can't waste what precious little we have. What do you mean milk?

Rosa:

Somebody from outside poured milk through a drainpipe; we have a few gallons.

Stepha:

When?

Rosa:

Yesterday after dark. Maryna and Abrasha brought it, two pailsful.

Stepha:

Maryna and Abrasha again. They seem to be our saviors.

Rosa:

Yes, they do. (Three shots are heard after which there is a commotion offstage. Stepha and Rosa look at each other and start off. but Abrasha runs into them followed by the other children and Mrs. Kalouski. He is hysterical.) Abrasha, what's happened?

Abrasha:

Maryna, Maryna.

Stepha:

What about Maryna?

Abrasha:

Shot. Maryna.

Stepha:

Tell me what's happened. Mrs. Kalouski, Rosa, please?

Mrs.:

Yes. It's almost time for dinner.

Rosa:

Come, children. There's nothing to see here. You'll find out what happened later. (She takes them off.)

Stepha:

Now take your time and tell me what's happened. (Korczak enters excitedly.)

Korczak:

What's happened? What was that shooting?

Abrasha:

Maryna and I were coming through the wall with some things when a guard saw us and yelled to us to stop. We ran and he shot at us. Maryna fell. I tried to help her, but she didn't move.

Korczak:

Where is she?

Abrasha:

The alley next to the old stable. (Korczak hurries off.)

Stepha:

All right. (She holds him to her while he sobs.) It's all right, Abrasha. The doctor's seeing to her. (Korczak re-enters and crosses to the stairs where he drops down with his head in his hands,) Sh. Go downstairs and wash your face and ask Mrs. Kalouski for some tea. Go ahead. (Abrasha goes off sobbing.) Henryk?

Korczak:

She's dead.

Stepha:

Oh God! What are we going to do?

Korczak:

What can we do but weep at the murder of children?

Stepha:

That beautiful little girl. Rosa and I were just talking about her when it happened. (Rosa enters.)

Rosa:

Some men have brought her back; she's covered with blood.

Korczak:

We'd better wash her. (He goes off.)

Stepha:

Aren't you coming?

Rosa:

No. I can't look at her like that again. (She remains behind as Stepha goes off.)

(Korczak enters Mueller's office.)

Mueller:

Well, Goldszmitt, I've been informed that you wish to produce a little theatrical for the edification of your charges.

Korczak:

That's right.

Mueller:

Sit down, sit down. I think it's an excellent idea. You must not do an Aryan play of course. And approval must be obtained, but I don't foresee any difficulty with that. Who is the author?

Korczak:

I wrote it myself.

Mueller:

Did you? What's the title?

Korczak:

"The Fisherboy."

Mueller:

Interesting. I might even attend myself. You will send me a copy of course.

Korczak:

I've brought one with me.

Mueller:

Splendid. Thank you. I'll read it and inform you of my decision as soon as possible. I understand that your orphanage has recently suffered a tragedy.

Korczak:

Yes. A lovely young girl was killed by one of your guards.

Mueller:

The penalty for smuggling is death.

Korczak:

The penalty for not smuggling is also death, the difference being that one is quick the other slow.

Mueller:

The guards must carry out their orders; the consequences are not their affair. I'm sorry about the child though.

Korczak:

Are you?

Mueller:

I don't understand you, Goldszmitt. I have given you the greatest of all gifts, the gift of life, yet you return only suspicion and antipathy.

Korczak:

You mean contempt, don't you?

Mueller:

My patience is not without its limits. Do not forget who I am, and what you are.

Korczak:

It's what you are that saddens me even more than the death of a child.

Mueller:

I will give you my decision on the play as soon as possible. That will be all. (The scene fades.)

(The children move about setting up a platform stage assisted by Stepha and Rosa. A sheet with a window painted on it is placed over the wall. Through the painted window can be seen a beach leading to the sea. Chairs are set up on the platforms for the adults: Korczak, Stepha, Mrs. Kalouski and Rosa on one side, Mueller on the other. The children who are not in the play sit on the floor before the platform. The lights go out and the play begins.)

A seaside cabin where the father sits on the edge of the stage mending a fishing net when the mate enters.

Mate:

If you don't hurry, it will be too late to put out today. The sun is already above the horizon.

Father:

The fish have no watches to know the time. Mate:

I know that, but as the sun warms the sea they go deeper for the cold water. We must hurry.

Father:

I've caught fish at all times of the day but never with holes in my nets. Be patient, I'm almost finished.

Mate:

The nets should have been repaired last night.

Father:

We repaired the boat last night. Remember. Why are you so anxious today?

Mate:

I'm eager to make a big catch.

Father:

So is any fisherman; so am I for that matter. But I don't pace about and nag. Relax or you will be old before your time.

Mate:

I'm merely trying to get you to hurry a bit. All of the other boats are out already while ours is still on the shore.

Father:

Stop fussing, I'll only be another minute.

Mate:

I wish we could take the boy with us.

Father:

So do I, but he's not well enough yet. When he gets stronger we'll bring him.

Mate:

If we make a large enough catch, maybe we could hire a city doctor to examine him and make him well.

Father:

It will take many large catches to pay for the doctors who have already examined him. And they've rolled him over and over, looked inside and out, poked him and tapped him but done no good. He and I are both tired of doctors.

Mate:

But you must find a cure.

Father:

We are hoping that it will cure itself. Since the doctors have left, he's already improved. The net is finished. I'll put him by the window, and we'll be off.

Mate:

It's about time. (While the Mate gathers the nets. the Father returns carrying the boy (Abrasha) who holds a crutch. The Father places him in an easy chair by the window and covers him with blankets.)

Father:

Are you comfortable?

Boy:

Yes, Father. I wish that I could go with you though as the other boys my age do. I'd rather be on the sea than in this old chair looking at it through the window.

Father:

You will soon be well enough to come and help us every day.

Mate:

Then we'll catch so many fish that we'll be the envy of the entire town.

Father:

You will fish so much that you will grow tired of boats and fishing and the sea. You'll long to be back in that old chair.

Boy:

How could anybody grow tired of the sea? It's far too grand and lovely.

Father:

But sometimes it grows angry and frightening.

Boy:

It's always been kind to me.

Mate:

And it's kept our bellies full, but we must be going or it won't do that much longer.

Father:

Yes, we'd better hurry so that we can return before nightfall. We will see you later, son. Keep yourself warm while we're away.

Boy:

So long, Father. (They leave.) I wish that I could go with them if only to sit in the sand to watch the boats put out and return. Oh well. (An old man enters.) Hello.

Man:

Hello there, young lad. How are you on this lovely and eventful day?

Boy:

I've never seen you before. Are you new here?

Man:

As you can see, I'm far too old to be new. I pass through here infrequently though.

Boy:

Why do you call this an eventful day?

Man:

Is not every day eventful?

Boy:

Some are quite dull.

Man:

Only people are dull, my lad. But each day is eventful, and unique.

Boy:

Unique?

Man:

Why yes. You don't believe me. I'll prove it to you. What is today's date?

Boy:

November 11, l9I8.

Man:

Well there is only one November 11, 1918; there can never be another, therefore it is unique. Though they say that history repeats itself, and it does, there can be only one today.

Boy:

But tomorrow will be today when it gets here.

Man:

True, but tomorrow will also be November 12th, the beginning of a whole new world.

Boy:

But I'll still be sitting in this same old chair just like today. It won't be the beginning of anything for me.

Man:

Ah, you are melancholy, my lad. Your spirits are low. Why do you feel so?

Boy:

I would like to go down to the beach, but my father says that I must remain in the cabin until I am well.

Man:

I see. That is certainly cause for low spirits. We'll have to find a way to lift them. Let me see. Yes! Can you see the beach?

Boy:

Of course I can: it's right outside the window.

Man:

No, no, no. Not like that. Turn from the window and close your eyes. Do you see the beach?

Boy:

Yes.

Man:

What does it look like?

Boy:

There is white sand and large dunes--as large as hills--with tufts of grass scattered over them and the sea and wind have shaped some of them in odd ways so that they resemble the waves themselves. It's just like the beach outside the window.

Man:

Yes, it is, isn't it? But do you see the ponies?

Boy:

Ponies? I don't see any ponies.

Man:

Then you are not looking properly. They are there, galloping over the dunes and chasing the waves. Look harder. Can you see them?

Boy:

Yes! Yes! I see them. They're brown and white and black, and a brown and white spotted one chases the waves and then runs from them. May I ride one? I'd love to ride a pony on the beach.

Man:

Of course you may.

Boy:

When? I hope it's soon.

Man:

It will be soon, my lad, very soon. But for now, I must be going. You be careful to keep that melancholy away now. A young lad like you has much to be happy about.

Boy:

I'll try.

Man:

Good. Well, I'm off. See you on the beach, lad. (He leaves.)

Boy:

So long, my friend. Ponies! I can't wait to ride them. (A girl enters carrying a picnic basket.) Hello.

Girl:

Hello. How are you?

Boy:

Much better, thank you. Where are you going with that basket?

Girl:

This is a picnic basket. I'm going to a picnic on the beach.

Boy:

I've never been to a picnic. What's it like?

Girl:

It's wonderful. You'll see when you come to ours.

Boy:

May I really?

Girl:

Certainly.

Boy:

That's wonderful. Will we play games?

Girl:

If you like, and there will be plenty to eat.

Boy:

Will we play tag and hide and seek?

Girl:

We always play those. Why are you so suddenly sad?

Boy:

Because I can't go to the picnic. My father says that I must remain here until I'm well. And even if I could go I couldn't play those games.

Girl:

Why not?

Boy:

Because I can't run. I can't even walk without my crutch.

Girl:

You'll run and play games. And you won't need that old crutch anymore.

Boy:

How can that be? I've always needed my crutch; I'm lame.

Girl:

You won't be anymore; the Fisherboy will see to that.

Boy:

Who's the Fisherboy?

Girl:

He's the person who will bring you to the picnic. But first I must go and prepare. I'll see you at the picnic.

Boy:

But I can't go.

Girl:

Not yet, but you will.

Boy:

But wait.

Girl:

Goodbye for now. (She leaves.)

Boy:

Wait. She's a strange girl. How can I go to a picnic when I can't leave the cabin? I guess she didn't understand. I wonder who this Fisherboy is. He must be a fine fellow to bring strangers to his picnics. His father must be a fisherman also. But if he is, and the Fisherboy goes to the sea with his father, it will be too dark for a picnic when he returns. It's all very strange. (A fishgirl enters carrying a deep basket.) Hello.

Fishgirl:

Hello. How are you today?

Boy:

I'm getting better. I even feel stronger today. Are you going to the beach so early?

Fishgirl:

I came to visit you first. I wish that you could join me. Then you could help me carry the fish up from my father's boat.

Boy:

I would like to help you, but I must remain here. I'll be well soon though; maybe I can help you then.

Fishgirl:

I hope so. I'll stop again on my way back.

Boy:

Don't go yet. I have no one to talk to. Besides, it's too early for the boats to be back.

Fishgirl:

I know, but I like to sit on the sand and watch the sea. It's so restful that it helps me think.

Boy:

What do you think about?

Fishgirl:

How good it is to live by the sea mostly, and how wonderful my life has been.

Boy:

But you're only a young fishgirl.

Fishgirl:

That's sufficient reason to be happy and content.

Boy:

I wish that I could be so happy, but I can't do anything except sit in this old chair. What good is it to live by the sea if you can't go to it? I might as well live in the desert.

Fishgirl:

You're just feeling sorry for yourself. If that's how you're going to be, I'm going to leave.

Boy:

No, don't. It's nice to live by the sea. I don't know why I said that.

Fishgirl:

You won't be ill forever. You'll soon be swimming in the sea and sitting in the sand.

Boy:

And going to picnics and riding ponies.

Fishgirl:

Those too.

Boy:

And sailing in my father's boat.

Fishgirl:

Whatever you wish. But you must be patient.

Boy:

Yes, for a little while longer.

Girl:

It's almost time for the boats to return.

Boy:

Is it? The day has gone so quickly. It seems as though it were only just morning.

Girl:

It will soon be night. I must go now.

Boy:

Thank you for visiting with me.

Fishgirl:

I'll stop again later.

Boy:

I'll look out for you. (The girl leaves.) She's very pretty. When I grow up I'm going to marry her. I hope she comes back. (The father and mate return.)

Mate:

I agree that we did well; I'm not arguing that we didn't but we.....

Father:

It's our best catch of the season, our best catch ever; the fish practically jumped into the boat.

Mate:

Yes, but the catch would have been even better had we gone earlier.

Father:

How could we have done better? We would have needed a larger boat to do better. Hello, son.

Boy:

Hello, Father. Hello, Mate.

Father:

It was a marvelous day. We've never caught such a number. As I said this morning, fish have no time pieces.

Mate:

I'm aware that they have no time pieces, nor wrists to wear them on, nor pockets to carry them in. If they did they'd be people rather than fish, and they're not people.

Father:

Of course they're not people. You're being silly now.

Mate:

(To Boy, exasperated) We had a marvelous catch today.

Boy:

I'm glad.

Mate:

But we could have done much better if we had put out earlier.

Father:

It was good enough for me.

Mate:

You'll never be rich.

Father:

Probably not. What are we having for dinner?

Mate:

Chowder.

Father:

Excellent. Just the thing for you, my son.

Boy:

I'm not hungry, Father.

Father:

But you haven't eaten all day, have you?

Boy:

I'm not really hungry though. Besides, I'll have plenty to eat at the picnic.

Father:

Picnic! What picnic?

Boy:

The picnic on the beach.

Mate:

How can you have a picnic on the beach? It's already dark outside.

Boy:

I'm not having it. The Fisherboy is bringing me.

Father:

But nobody can have a picnic in the dark.

Boy:

Maybe they're going to light a fire, I don't know. But the girl said that the Fisherboy would bring me to the picnic on the beach where we will ride ponies and play games.

Father:

What girl?

Boy:

The girl with the picnic basket.

Mate:

And ponies?

Boy:

Yes, the ponies on the beach. We're going to ride them over the sand and chase the waves.

Mate:

His illness has affected his mind.

Father:

There are no ponies on the beach. Whoever told you that was making fun of you.

Boy:

I'm sure that she was sincere. She said that the Fisherboy would come and bring me to the picnic, and that I wouldn't need my crutch anymore.

Father:

Not need your crutch! Where can you go without it? (To the Mate) It's cruel to tell him such things. You're always going to need your crutch, my son. I didn't want to tell you, but it's not in any power but God's to save you from it.

Boy:

But the girl said that the Fisherboy would bring me to the picnic without it.

Father:

Then you'll have to be carried.

Boy:

She also said that I'd play tag and hide and seek.

Father:

I'm afraid that she deceived you.

Mate:

If I ever meet her I'll tell her what a terrible thing it is to fool a poor child. (The Fishgirl returns.) Is this her? You should be ashamed of yourself.

Fishgirl:

I've done nothing to be ashamed of.

Boy:

This is not the girl. This is my friend the fishgirl who goes to the beach to collect the catch.

Mate:

Oh, pardon me. I spoke too hastily.

Fishgirl:

(To Boy) There was an enormous catch today. So many fish that I had to go back twice to carry them all. The entire town is celebrating, and the mayor has declared Sunday a day of thanksgiving.

Father:

A day of thanksgiving, that's wonderful. We must celebrate too.

Mate:

Maybe we should wait until we've had many large catches to celebrate. A large catch today may be empty nets tomorrow.

Father:

You're a pessimist.

Mate:

Maybe so, but we should wait all the same.

Fishgirl:

Are you feeling better now?

Boy:

I'm very tired but happy about the catch.

Fishgirl:

Then you'd better rest so that you can help me carry the fish from the boats when you're well. If they continue to catch so many, I won't be able to do it alone.

Father:

He's not going to carry fish. He's going in the boat with us so that we can catch even more fish.

Mate:

Then we'll need a large boat.

Father:

If we need one we'll get one. He'll catch thousands.

Boy:

And I'm going to go to lots of picnics. I'll have some myself and invite all of you to them. We'll ride ponies on the beach.

Fishgirl:

You'll have to get well first though. I must go now and help prepare for tonight's celebration. I'll return later and bring you a gift to take to the picnic. Don't leave before I get here.

Boy:

I won't. So long.

Fishgirl:

Bye. (She leaves.)

Father:

I don't think that there will be any picnics, my son. At least not for some time yet.

Mate:

I'd better see to dinner. (He leaves.)

Boy:

I'm sure the girl was telling the truth, Father. I can feel it. Tonight I will ride a pony over the sand and chase the waves.

Father:

But if you don't, you must promise me that you won't be disappointed.

Boy:

I promise.

Father:

Good. I must go and tend to my nets. Are you warm enough?

Boy:

I'm fine.

Father:

Very well then.

Boy:

Father! Look! It the Fisherboy. (The Fisherboy enters.)

Father:

Where do you come from? I've never seen you before.

Fisherboy:

I come from a nearby town.

Father:

What's it's name?

Fisherboy:

You wouldn't recognize it. Are you ready to go?

Boy:

Yes. I told you he would come, Father.

Father:

Where are you taking him?

Fisherboy:

To a picnic on the beach.

Father:

On the beach? But I see no fire. How can you have a picnic in the dark?

Fisherboy:

It is still light where we're going. Come.

Father:

But he can't leave the cabin. He's ill, and it's cold on the beach at night.

Fisherboy:

It's cold here but warm where we're going.

Father:

Then I will go too.

Fisherboy:

Yes, but not yet. It's not your time. (The boy reaches for his crutch.) You won't need that.

Father:

Surely you're not going to carry him; you're much too small.

Fisherboy:

He will walk with me. Come. (The boy rises carefully.)

Boy:

I can stand alone, Father. Look! (The fishgirl and the Mate return.)

Fishgirl:

Wait. I've brought you a gift. A bridle for the ponies. I made it myself.

Boy:

Thank you.

Father:

But there are no.... Goodbye, my son.

Boy:

Goodbye, Father. Goodbye, Mate. Someday you will come to my picnic.

Mate:

That we will, lad. Goodbye. (The boys leave.)

Fishgirl:

Look!

Father:

What is it?

Fishgirl:

There's an old man and a girl with them.

Mate:

They're all riding ponies.

T H E E N D

(The children applaud. The cast bows and the lights fade. When the lights return, the children file off at both sides.)

Mueller:

Your young thespians are to be complimented, Goldszmitt. It was quite a performance. There was surprising warmth and humor in it.

Korczak:

Surprising for people in our situation?

Mueller:

Exactly. Well, good night. (He leaves. The children who were in the play return to dismantle the stage and remove the chairs.)

Korczak:

Let me help you with that, Hanka.

Hanka:

Thank you, doctor.

Korczak:

You were all magnificent tonight; I only wish that the author and director had been equal to your talents.

Stepha:

It's very late. You should all be in bed. Rosa.

Rosa:

I'll see to it, Miss Stepha. (They go off.)

Korczak:

I'm glad that you persuaded Abrasha to perform. He needed a diversion to take his mind off Maryna.

Stepha:

I doubt that he'll ever get over it even if there was time. Why did Mueller come here?

Korczak:

To gloat I suppose.

Stepha:

What fiend could have created such a despicable creature?

Korczak:

You're coming perilously close to blasphemy. This is hardly the time for that. Mueller's just a malignant fool anyway.

Stepha:

How much time do you think we have?

Korczak:

I don't know. Not very long though. (There is a pause.) How I wish I could stop the time long enough for them to grow a bit older so that they might enjoy a bit of happiness after all of the suffering they've been through.

Stepha:

Or at least experience a bit of real childhood.

Korczak:

You too deserve a little happiness, Stepha.

Stepha:

I've had a lifetime of happiness with you.

Korczak:

That's very kind. Why did we never marry and have a family of our own?

Stepha:

There was never really time. Besides, we've had a family of hundreds over the years.

Korczak:

Yes, we have, haven't we? Even the flowers are withering.

Stepha:

I'll get some water.

Korczak:

And who will water them after? They might as well be left as they are.

Stepha:

Perhaps they'll bloom again in the spring.

Korczak:

They might, if they were weeds.

Stepha:

The sun will soon be up.

Korczak:

I wonder why it bothers. Even the light is dark in this place of the damned. It merely counts the days that pass on a misery here and mocks our animated death with the glow of life. Ach! I'm a garrulous old fool.

Stepha:

You're a great man.

Korczak:

No, only a man. I thought that I could make a world where children would see that the future is theirs. But I can't even protect them from the Muellers of the world. Abrasha was right when he said that I've wasted their time. I hope they can forgive me.

Stepha:

Don't Henryk. You've done so much for so many. (She takes his hand. kisses it and holds it to her cheek for a moment.)

Korczak:

It's up to God now.

Stepha:

Sh. (She places a finger over his lips. He smiles sadly. They sit quietly holding hands while the day brightens the window. A whistle breaks the silence followed by cries of "Raus!")

Korczak:

It's time.

Stepha:

I'll see to the children. (She composes herself, looks once more at Korczak and goes. Mueller appears on the platform at right. Korczak rises and the two stare at each other for a lone moment. The children appear washed and dressed neatly though poorly.) Now line up in order of size. (They assemble in three lines silently.)

Korczak:

Is everybody here?

Rosa:

Yes.

Mueller:

You needn't worry about that; the building is being searched.

Korczak:

You're very thorough.

Mueller:

As I've told you, I have superiors to answer to.

Korczak:

I'm sure they'll be pleased.

Mueller:

You've done an admirable job, Goldszmitt. We will take over now. And as I'm a man of my word, you are free to go. I'll see that they're escorted to their destination. (He descends the steps.)

They look splendid. It's too bad that the others cannot accept their fate so stoically, but then children are usually more accepting than their elders, eh, my friend? (Places his hands on Korczak's shoulders.)

Korczak:

Take your hands off me.

Mueller:

You old fool! How dare you! You think that I would soil you with my touch? You think you're too good, too saintly for me to touch you. You may join your brats, Goldszmitt, and share their fate. But perhaps you're not such a fool after all. We would just be postponing the inevitable. Go with them; I'm glad to be rid of you. (Turns to leave.)

Korczak:

We'll meet again, Mueller. I'll be there, we'll all be there, to see you cast into hell. (Mueller leaves.)

Stepha:

Henryk! Don't let him go. Save yourself.

Korczak:

Would you also have me leave them?

Stepha:

No.

Korczak:

Now, children, let's pretend that we're going on a picnic that we've been looking forward to for a long time.

Felix:

By the sea, doctor?

Korczak:

Of course by the sea. On a sandy beach from which we can see clear across the ocean.

Abrasha:

Where we will ride ponies and chase the waves.

Korczak:

Ponies of all different sizes and colors. Now let's hold our heads up because people will be watching us. Let's show them what we're made of. Are you crying, Romacia?

Romacia:

No, doctor.

Korczak:

You must have a cold then. We can't take someone with a cold on a picnic, can we?

Romacia:

I don't have a cold.

Korczak:

No? Then let me wipe those tears. There. Blow. Very good. Now you're as pretty as ever. (Romacia throws her arms around him and sobs.)

Abrasha:

(Comes forward) Stop. We mustn't let them think that we're afraid.

Korczak:

It's all right, Abrasha. I'll take care of it. (He lifts her while she continues to sob and takes the hand of one of the smallest children.) Come, follow me. (All freeze in place as the lights slowly fade.)

THE END

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©1997 Gary Farrell

"This play is protected by copyright. No professional or amateur production is permitted without the written consent of the author."

Visit the author's Web site for more plays, screenplays, and fiction on other topics.

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A Teacher's Guide to the Holocaust
Produced by the Florida Center for Instructional Technology,
College of Education, University of South Florida.