TED. Yes.

CASE WORKER. Did you make that application?

TED. Yes.

CASE WORKER. Why?

TED. [Squirming.] The usual reason--I suppose.

[There is a pause in which one expects almost anything to happen.]

CASE WORKER. [With restraint.] Very well. I must ask you a few questions. [Her antagonism is felt all through.]

TED. I'll try to answer them. [Desperately.] I needed relief or I wouldn't have applied for it.

CASE WORKER. You feel you still need relief?

TED. I do.