Episode 9 It's Up to You ACT II

[ The following morning. Robbie is sitting in the living room. He is waiting for Philip to take him to see Charley Rafer at the university club. ]

Philip: Sorry, Robbie. Sorry to be late this morning, but, well, we've still got some time for a cup of coffee. I can't wait to see my old pal Charley Rafer.

Robbie: Neither can I.

[ They go into the kitchen. ]

Philip: So you thought about it, huh?

Robbie: Yes, I have, Dad.

Philip: Well, I'm glad.  I knew you'd realize that this interview could be an important experience for you.

Robbie: I came to that conclusion.

Philip: That's very wise, Robbie. Very wise. Now let's head off for the city and the university club.

Robbie: Thanks, Dad.

Philip: Thanks ... for what?

Robbie: Thanks for hearing me out. And ...

Philip: And ...?

Robbie: And thanks for being such an understanding father.

Philip: Well, thank you, Robbie. Thank you.

[ In an office at the university club. Dean Rafer greets Philip and Robbie. ]

Dean: [entering] Philip Stewart! It's great to see you!

Philip: Charley Rafer --you look as young as ever.

[ They hug. ]

Dean: You must be Robbie.

Robbie: Hi.

Philip: Yes, this is my youngest son Robbie. Robbie, I want you to meet one of the best tennis players on the Michigan team --Charley Rafer.

Robbie: Nice to meet you, Dean Rafer.

Dean: Well, are you as good a tennis player as your dad?

Robbie: No, I'm not very good at it.

Philip: Frankly, neither was I. Charley was the star of the team.

Dean: Yeah. Thanks. Well, how've you been, Philip?

Philip: Oh, working too hard.

Dean: Doesn't show. How's Ellen?

Philip: Fine, thank you. And how's Marge?

Dean: She's still giving the toughest English history exams in the school and loving every minute of it. And speaking of minutes, I have interviews until noon, so why don't we get right to work?

Philip: Can you have lunch with us later?

Dean: I'd love to, Philip, but I'm afraid I can't. I'm only here two days, and I have interviews with twenty-six applicants.

Philip: I understand. Well, thanks. I'll wait outside. [ to Robbie ] Good luck, Son. [ He leaves. ]

Dean: Did you bring your transcript from high school?

Robbie: Yes, sir. Right here.

Dean: Thank you. Please sit down. I see under "activities" that you've been writing for the school paper.

Robbie: Yes, sir.

Dean: What kinds of articles have you written?

Robbie: All kinds --sports, editorials, theater reviews. You name it, I've written it.

Dean: Hmmm. Well, have you ever thought of becoming a journalist?

Robbie: A professional writer? Not until recently.

Dean: Michigan has a fine School of Journalism.

Robbie: Yes, I know that.

Dean: You seem to have some reservations.

Robbie: I'm a little uncertain.

[ We see Philip nervously waiting outside the office. Dean Rafer has finished interviewing Robbie. ]

Dean: [ to Robbie ] It's been very nice talking to you.

Robbie: Nice talking to you, sir.

Dean: One piece of advice. The most important thing is for you to decide your own future.

Robbie: Yes, sir. Good-bye, Dean Rafer.

Dean: Good-bye, Robbie. Good luck.