In Act One, Richard looks at his last group of photographs for his book, Family Album, U.S.A. He's not sure he has everything he wants. He tries to get an appointment with Harvey Carlson, publisher of the Carlson Publishing Company. Will Richard get an appointment with Mr. Carlson?
[ In Richard and Marilyn's apartment. Richard is laying out his photography portfolio on the table late at night. ]
Marilyn: What are you doing?
Richard: I think I've got them.
Marilyn: You think you've got what?
Richard: Performing arts—performing arts centers. I think I've got them all, but I'm not sure.
Marilyn: I think you have got it, Richard. Lincoln Center, home of the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the New York Philharmonic.
Richard: Shubert Alley, center of the theater on Broadway.
Marilyn: And Carnegie Hall. And the others. You do have it all.
Marilyn: You have been working on this for some time, Richard. I'm glad you feel you've finally put it all together. What now?
Richard: Now for the hard part.
Marilyn: Oh, you think you're going to have a hard time getting the album published?
Richard: Well, it won't be easy.
Marilyn: So, what do you think you're going to do?
Richard: Does the name Harvey Carlson ring a bell?
Marilyn: Oh, yes! Harvey Carlson! I remember.
Richard: He said I should call him. He's the publisher of the Carlson Publishing Company. He said they need a new book of photographs, and he really liked my concept.
Marilyn: So, why don't you call him in the morning?
Richard: Do you think I have enough to show him?
Marilyn: I've been through every section with you, Richard. It's quite complete. And now that you're satisfied with the performing arts section, I think you should show it to Mr. Carlson.
Richard: You're right. My "Family Album, U.S.A." feels right. I'll call in the morning and set up an appointment to see him.
Marilyn: He's going to love your work. Come on. Let's get some sleep.
[ The next morning, 9:07 AM. Richard is pacing back and forth near the telephone, nervous about calling. ]
Richard: Is it too early to call Mr. Carlson?
Marilyn: Seven after nine? No. I'm sure he's in his office.
Richard: His number is 555-7532. 555-7532. Hello, Mr. Carlson, please.
Receptionist: Mr. Carlson is busy at the moment. May I help you?
Richard: I'd like to make an appointment with him.
Receptionist: And your name is...?
Richard: My name is Richard Stewart. He told me to call him about my project, Family Album, U.S.A.
[ The receptionist puts Richard on hold for a moment to check with Mr. Carlson. ]
Receptionist: Mr. Stewart, I just spoke to Mr. Carlson. He would like to see you. But the only time he's available this week is tomorrow morning at ten o'clock.
Richard: Thanks. Thanks a lot. Good-bye. Well, it's done. Tomorrow morning at a publisher's office.
Marilyn: Oh, it's so exciting, isn't it, Richard?
Richard: Well, finally a publisher will see my work.