The works canteen.

On  a table at the end of the room are two parcels. Several MEN and WOMEN are sitting in front of the table.

BUCHANAN and MRS VEALFOY enter. Applause. MRS VEALFOY holds up her hand for silence. She smiles.

MRS VEALFOY. We all know why we are here. George Buchanan is retiring today after fifty years with the firm.  Now, I want to tell you a little bit about him.

She smiles and looks at BUCHANAN. Applause from the crowd.

George left school at fourteen and joined the firm one year later, receiving the princely sum of seven shillings a week – which he will tell you went a long way in those far-off times. He quickly became known for his speed and intolerance of any work which was in the least ‘slip-shod’.

She looks around her and at BUCHANAN.

At the outbreak of the Second World War, George was called upon to supervise his department, and  to take on a lot of extra responsibilities. He didn’t complain, though. He shouldered his share of the burden which we all had in those days.

She pauses. She looks around the room. Her voice takes on a quieter, more meaningful note.

George has had his share of life’s tragedies. We all remember reading that he was on the danger list some years ago. He soon returned to us, however, and his cheery laugh echoed once again through the canteen. He is now fit and still rides a bicycle. Nothing could quell George, I’m sure.

Friendly laughter.

I think, looking at him, we can hardly believe he will be sixty-five on Sunday. He is  looking forward, I know, to an active retirement. And it is with retirement in mind that the men of your department, George, have pleasure in presenting you with this very lovely electric toaster. Which I believe, is what you wanted.

She unwraps the first parcel and hands the toaster to BUCHANAN. Applause.

And, as a parting present from the firm, I have great delight in giving you this electric  clock.

She unwraps the second parcel and hands the clock to BUCHANAN. Applause.

When you look at it, you’ll think of us, I’m sure.   

BUCHANAN. As I stand on the eve of a well-earned rest I have no hesitation in saying that I’ve worked hard for it. (Pause.) Over the years I’ve witnessed changes both inside and outside the firm. The most remarkable is the complete overhaul of equipment which has taken place during the last year. I am truly sorry to leave without seeing much of it in operation. But – there it is – what will be, will be.

Pause.

He nods  his head.

As I say, retirement is a big step. It’s going to mean a break. But I can say I’ve earned my rest. I hope to see you at the annual ‘get together’ in a month’s time. So it isn’t by any means ‘Goodbye’.

MRS VEALFOY looks at the clock. It is twelve-thirty.

Well, I had better come to the end now, as I think the canteen ladies are impatient to begin serving dinner. So once again, thank you. And God bless. And – thank you – thank you.

Cheers. The clatter of dishes. The clock says just after twelve-thirty. The AUDIENCE push past BUCHANAN and MRS VEALFOY. BUCHANAN and MRS VEALFOY are alone beside the table.

MRS VEALFOY. Make sure you hand in your uniform. After lunch you’re free. We’ve  no further need of you.

She smiles and goes out. BUCHANAN is alone. He picks up the parcels, joins the  lunch queue. No one speaks to him, or is aware of his presence. The queue moves forward.