Part 15

Part 15 Reading Time: 2 minutes

INT. DOMINIQUE’S APARTMENT IN NEW YORK, DAY

Dominique is in bed. Her breakfast is on a tray in front of her and the tray has a little pocket on the side for newspaper.

Dominique takes out The Banner and unfolds it. On the front page is a picture of a building site with large scaffolding that seems to almost float in the air. The headline reads EXPENSIVE, UGLY AND UNSAFE!

Dominique shakes her head as she reads it.

INT. GAIL WYNAND’S OFFICE, DAY

Dominique walks into the office.

GAIL WYNAND

What a surprise and what a lovely contrast to my usual visitors. Please sit down.

Dominique comes around to his side of the desk.

DOMINIQUE

You approved a campaign against the Enright House?

GAIL WYNAND

Yes. Of course.

DOMINIQUE

Have you seen drawings of the Enright House?

GAIL WYNAND

No.

DOMINIQUE

Please send for them. It is neither ugly nor unsafe. It is a magnificent architectural achievement.

Gail remains silent.

DOMINIQUE

Is that of no importance?

GAIL WYNAND

None.

DOMINIQUE

You’re willing to destroy it to amuse the mob... to give them something to scream about?

GAIL WYNAND

That is the policy which has made the Banner the newspaper of largest circulation. Don’t expect me to change it.

DOMINIQUE

You asked me once to tell you of something I wanted. I’ve tried never to ask favors of anyone... ...but I’m going to now. Please call off this campaign.

GAIL WYNAND

Is the architect a friend of yours?

DOMINIQUE

I don’t know who he is nor care.

GAIL WYNAND

Why should you plead for that building?

DOMINIQUE

Because it’s great. There’s so little in life that’s noble or beautiful. I’m pleading for a man’s achievement. I’m pleading for greatness.

GAIL WYNAND

Dominique, I would give you anything I owned ...except the Banner. My whole life and an unspeakable struggle have gone to make it. I will not sacrifice it for anyone on earth.