Fen

Mist settles over the swampy land of the fens. In the distance, a boy is heard shaking a rattle and scaring off crows.

Scene One

Out of the mist steps a Japanese businessman. He looks directly at the audience, and explains the history of the fens and how it was farmed. More importantly, he reveals that the land is very valuable, and many businesses would like to own it.

Scene Two

In the fields, gangmaster Mrs. Hassett supervises her workers: Wilson, Shirley, Nell, Angela, and Val. They are digging potatoes; some, like Wilson, are moving almost too quickly to be getting all of the crop. But Val suddenly stops and stares off into the distance. She declares to Mrs. Hassett that she has to leave, but does not give a reason. Mrs. Hassett tries to encourage Val to finish her work--good work is hard to come by, and there’s no guarantee Val will get paid if she suddenly leaves. But Val goes. The other women are confused by Val’s behavior, but keep working.

Scene Three

Frank is sitting in