In Act Three, Mr. Carlson gives Richard a newspaper. But Richard is too nervous to read it. It's a review of Richard's work. Later, Mr. Carlson introduces Richard and Marilyn to John O'Neill. Mr. O'Neill is magazine publisher and he offers Richard a job. Will he take the job?
[ At the exhibition party. Harvey Carlson rushes back into the room holding a newly printed copy of tonight's newspaper. ]
Richard: What's this?
Carlson: Read it.
Richard: I can't. Would you read it, Marilyn?
Marilyn: "Richard Stewart's show at the Carlson Gallery is a collection of photographs from his new book entitled Family Album, U.S.A. There is power and beauty in Mr. Stewart's work, and his book introduces us to a remarkable new talent." Oh, Richard, it's wonderful!
Carlson: Congratulations!
Richard: Wow! I'm overwhelmed.
[ Carlson clinks his glass to command the room's attention. ]
Carlson: Ladies and gentlemen, if I may have your attention for a moment, please? I hope you're all enjoying the exhibition. I know that I am. And I would like to introduce the young man who spent the last five years taking these remarkable pictures and writing the background for Family Album, U.S.A.—Mr. Richard Stewart.
[ The crowd applauds warmly as Richard steps forward. ]
Richard: Hello. I want to thank all of you for coming here tonight. I'd like to thank Harvey Carlson for his faith in my project. But most of all, I would like to thank my family for their love and support all through this adventure. Thank you.
[ The crowd cheers. After a while, as the crowd thins out, Richard relaxes next to Marilyn. Tom walks over with a camera. ]
Richard: Oh, I'm glad this's over.
Tom: Would you mind?
Richard: Oh, not at all.
[ Tom snaps a picture of Richard and Marilyn smiling together. ]
Tom: Thanks.
Richard: Our pleasure. Hope it wins a Pulitzer Prize.
Tom: I'll settle for an "A" in my photography course.
[ Carlson guides a distinguished-looking man over to Richard and Marilyn. ]
Carlson: Ah, Richard, Marilyn, I want you to meet John O'Neill.
Richard: Oh, how do you do?
Marilyn: Nice to meet you.
O'Neill: I've been looking forward to meeting your husband, Mrs. Stewart. I'm really impressed by your show.
Richard: Thank you.
O'Neill: In fact, I'd like your autograph.
Richard: Oh, well, really...
O'Neill: On a contract.
Richard: What's this about, Harvey?
Carlson: Mr. O'Neill is the publisher of several magazines.
Marilyn: Of course. I've seen you on television.
Carlson: Mr. O'Neill was so impressed with your work that he wants to develop it into a magazine concept.
Richard: Well, that sounds very exciting, but where would I fit into the plan?
O'Neill: I'd like you to be the photo editor of the magazine.
Marilyn: Oh, Richard, how exciting!
Carlson: It's a wonderful opportunity, Richard.
Richard: Hold on. Wait a minute, please.
Carlson: What's the problem, Richard?
Richard: The problem is that I'm a photographer, not an editor. I like what I do. In fact, I love what I do... which is going out with a camera and a roll of film and seeing the wonder of humanity. Now, I appreciate your offer, but I've worked so hard on Family Album, U.S.A., and I'm giving some thought to a new book on a different subject. I'm flattered, but I enjoy taking pictures, and I want to continue doing that. Thank you, but I'm happy being a photographer.
O'Neill: I understand, Richard.
Carlson: Richard, I know your next book will be a success. Congratulations!
Richard: Thanks.
Marilyn: You're a real Stewart!
Richard: Thanks.
[ The end! ]