Page 42 of The Silent Appeal

Date: January 13, 2025

Subject: Re: Your email

Dear Celia,

Last summer I helped the Reverend Josh clear out a vicious tower of wild brambles that had taken root behind the garden-of-rest. At a crucial point, he lost his footing and, groundward-bound, clutched at a clump of thorny branches. Let me tell you, he is not above a spot of blasphemy himself, and if prolific swearing is good enough for a vicar, then it’s good enough for me.

Anyone offended by “damn and damn and damn” should count themselves lucky the next play isn’t Blasted by Sarah Kane. The first line of that is “I’ve shat in better places than this.”

Damn! I always forget the OBE after Joel’s name. Next time, next time.

If we can’t find anyone to prompt, then I’ll do it. The director should always be prepared to do any job required. There’s no room for snobbery when there’s a NADA-winning play to get off the ground. Kevin

P.S. Sarah-Jane says a big thank-you for your thoughtful feedback.

To: Fran Elroy-Jones

From: Kevin MacDonald

Date: January 13, 2025

Subject: Wow!

Dear Fran,

Haven’t had a chance to thank you for bringing Amelia and Lucas to Fairways. Just the type of couple we’re after. Young, bright, and undeniably talented. She’s going to be a first-rate Henrietta.

The other girl, Georgia, read well enough in the auditions, but as soon as she got up onstage, her confidence ebbed away. We might need to do a bit more work there. I’m sure once she’s found her feet she’ll be as promising as the Stibsons.

As for you. What can I say? It must get boring to hear undiluted praise all the time, but if that first rehearsal is anything to go by, your Lady Angkatell will be talked about for years. Thank you. Kevin

To: Kevin MacDonald

From: Fran Elroy-Jones

Date: January 13, 2025

Subject: Re: Wow!

Dear Kevin,

Thank you. It’s funny how you feel responsible for the people you’ve introduced to the group. If they let the production down, I’ll blame myself. Yes, Lucas and Amelia are lovely. Lucas used to work for a bank, but now he manages a nightclub. Amelia was in PR, but she was laid off and is job-hunting at the moment. I know what you mean about Georgia, but with a little help, I’m sure she’ll come out of her shell.

As for my performance, well, I wanted the part of Henrietta, but you’re absolutely right—Lady A is a much meatier challenge. I’m very excited to see what costume Denise has in mind.

On another matter, do you have Reverend Josh’s contact details? I’ve used the email on the church website before, but can’t be sure the curate doesn’t access that account, and I need his personal number for something a little more delicate regarding the parish. Thanks, Fran

Message exchange between Kevin and Sarah-Jane MacDonald on January 13, 2025:

11:36 p.m. Kevin wrote:

Fran’s asked me for Reverend Josh’s contact details.

11:37 p.m. Sarah-Jane wrote:

I’m taking time out from a bitter negotiation with Sammy over her cultural choices.

11:37 p.m. Kevin wrote: