An Old Fashioned


Perhaps I took this one a bit too literally.

Lights up on a traditional, proscenium stage. The velvet, red curtains part to reveal a door. Reginald Jeeves (a proper British butler) arrives at the door at the same moment as Lt. Commander Data (a very formal android). Jeeves tips his hat and extends his hand toward the door.

JEEVES

After you, sir.

DATA

I’m afraid I could not allow that. It would be...rude.

JEEVES

Please, sir, I insist.

DATA

I am programmed with the finest manners.

JEEVES

As am I, sir. Please. After you.

DATA

After you.

JEEVES

After you.

DATA

I must insist, sir, that you enter the door first.

JEEVES

I’m afraid that won’t be happening.

DATA

Then we are at an impasse.

JEEVES

It appears –

A Klingon warrior leaps onto the stage and cuts Data’s head off with a Batleth then runs off.

JEEVES

It’s certainly not worth losing your head over.

Jeeves mugs to the audience as a loud rim-shot is heard. SILENCE.

JEEVES

(Under his breath)

We’re not at ComicCon anymore, Toto.

The curtain falls and the lights go out.