It was almost light out as I started up the hill but as I pulled up to the house it was all I could do to find a parking space.  The place was swinging with performers from clubs all over town.  I made my entrance.  Some of them were drinking, listening to music, some of them were half asleep-but they were all waiting.  I moved around the room.  "I'm awfully sorry.  I got hung up, couldn't help myself."  They waved away my apologies like they understood.  Dave was careening around the room doing charming-bits with half a dozen of the best-looking starlets in town.  As he passed me on his rounds he gestured across the room.  Jimmy Dean was huddled crouched in his usual corner, legs crossed under him, glasses down on his nose, wearing an old sweatshirt, levis and sneakers.  "He doesn't talk much but you've gotta admit he dresses good."  He lowered his voice.  "What's with this kook?"
        "Why ask me? Ella Logan brought him backstage, he's breaking into pictures, he did East of Eden and I think he's making another one."  Jimmy saw me looking at him and smiled and waved.
        Dave whispered, "Hey folks, it moved.  Another week in that spot and he'll take root.  He doesn't even make a move for a chick."  He sighed.  "Oh, well, all the more for me."  A couple of new girls came in the front door.  Dave winked.  "Take two, they're small," and zoomed toward them.
        I turned up the hi-fi set and played my bongo drums.  I looked around because I felt somebody staring at me.  It was Jimmy, giving me the over-the-glasses jazz from the corner.  I walked over and sat down next to him.  "Hey, lemme ask you something.  What the hell are you watching every night?  You never talk to anyone, you don't look like you're having laughs...what're you doing always sitting in the corner watching people?  Why don't you get a girl or something?  Have a little booze and be somebody!"
        "Man, the only thing I want is to be an actor."
        "So be an actor.  But you don't have to be dead the rest of the time.  You a little shy?  Is that it?  You want me to fix you up with one of the chicks?"
        He smiled pleasantly but shook his head.  "Man, all I want is to be a good actor."
 

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