Notes

The play is set in a number of places. Many scenes are staged in the Wellands' house, in St Xaviers school and at the quarry

Jim is fostered by a local family called the Wellands. Mr Welland, Mrs Welland and their daughter all live together in one house. They welcome him with open arms and ensure he gets the best of care. They seem to be from a middle class environment, always having food on the table and a clean uniform for school ready every day. They kindly purchase Jim a PE tracksuit for school. Jim is incredibly lucky to have arrived in the presence of such a kind, caring and loving family.

"WE REALLY ARE GLAD TO HAVE YOU HERE, JIM."

Jim goes to the quarry to climb. This is his passion. For him, the quarry represents the treacherous climbing conditions of Mount Everest. This is his place where he can have some alone time, escape reality and all of his troubles in the world. But like Everest the quarry is extremely dangerous as any false step could send you tumbling down a rocky surface and injuring yourself badly. Near the end of the story when Jim runs away, this is where he goes. He contemplates jumping and ending his life until Miranda arrives and saves him. "I'll just wait. Wait for it all to end." -Jim "Mallory! Mallory! Can you hear me? I have come with a rescue party, step back from the edge you are safe now."-Miranda


The play is also set in the local school, Saint Xaviers. Jim finds it rather difficult to fit in and the school principal, Mr Bryant seems to pick on Jim before he gets to know him. He is very pessimistic as he is judging Jim from previous school records. His attitude towards Jim is very condescending as he is looking down on Jim in a superior manner. He tells Jim that if he does not follow the high standards of the school then there will be serious consequences and he will be in big trouble.When Jims schoolwork mproves Mr Bryant fails to notice and he continues to say nasty remarks Mr Bryant must make Jim feel very uncomfortable going to school everyday. I would certainly not like to attend this school. "There is no point expecting homework for you McLindon. Is there?"-Head "I've done it Sir."-Jim "You do realise you will have to complete the work in detention?"