CYNTHIA: You know, when you apply the basic social work principles in this country you run against the law. I don't care what agency you work for, you run against the law. It can be child welfare, or rehabilitation of criminal offenders. You run against the law. I learnt that the hard way. But I wasn't going to be bitter about it. Also I wasn't going to be a mere functionary like some social workers I know. I decided that the best thing for me would be to resign from Cripple Care. Do something constructive outside the establishment that stifled me.

At the same time I was so proud of my work. Oh, I was so proud of my work. Bra Zet was turning out well. He was responding to my counselling. He could now go out, meet people. There was even talk of getting him a job at one of the factories in the city. But I had to leave all that behind me. Others would take over and do just as good a job.

[She hums the piano melody]

[Brief silence]

SFX: There is a loud knock off mic

I wonder who that is.

SFX: Her footsteps going off mic. Door opens.

Bongie! Is it really you? Why, I never thought you'd come. I mean since I got banned and placed under house arrest I never heard from you. And we were such good friends at Cripple Care. Did everything together. Covered for each other. Lied for each other. Everything, Bongie. Like sisters. Yet you didn't come.

You know, I sat waiting for days and days. It's a lonely world, Bongie. Was it fear perhaps? Fear that the security police would come knocking at your door if you'd been with a banned person? Answer me Bongie. Was it fear? And the others we used to go to stokvels and soccer matches together, are they afraid too?

[She laughs derisively] You have lost your tongue. But let me tell you, the people have not lost their tongue. They have no fear any more. They have …

SFX: Footsteps of someone running away No, don't run away, Bongie! I haven't finished yet. Listen to me, for your sake, before it's too late.