Should the Levee Ever Break, Act 1, Scene 3, Part 1

The curtain rises. Steve Merkin, the unscrupulous accountant, and John Travailleur, Esq. just another John, are seated at a bar in a seedy looking inn. Mitchell Hollywood, the adulterous innkeeper, is behind the bar. He is wearing a shabby mauve tuxedo with a green ascot. A cigarette holder is clenched between his teeth. He is wiping a dirty glass with a greasy rag. The juke box is playing a raunchy twelve bar blues number: "Baby said she brought a camera and we’d both enjoy the game. Said the naughty shots excite her; not to play would be a shame. By the time I got the picture, it turned out to be a frame..." The juke box music fades. Steve: I’ll have another Spünkmeyer Mössbeck and a refill on this peanut bowl. John: And one more double-dry martini as a comfort to my soul. Mitchell: Both those ships are coming in on the tide. And since you’re taking your leisure, let me serve as your guide. John: What entertainment do you aim to provide? Mitchell: The choice of diversions is yours to decide. Steve: Would foxy delights be found on the tour? Mitchell: If that’s your intention, then sure. Steve: As a frugal accountant with ledgers to keep, I will enter my interest, so long as she’s cheap. John: …also suitably handsome. Steve: …shouldn’t cost me a ransom. John: Describe what affair would be quick to arrange. Steve: And avail us your rate of exchange. Mitchell: Since you’re here to talk business, I’ll get right to the point. Most plans are obsolete as soon as they’re approved. Pimping may require a fair degree of artistry, but I have it down to a science. You could call it an algorithm. The cost of the date is determined by the grade of the girl you select. Steve: Explain yourself, sir.