Signing of the Kellogg-Briand Pact
The signing of the Kellogg-Briand Pact, an international agreement to renounce war as an instrument of national policy, takes place in the grand Salon de l'Horloge at the Quai d'Orsay. Representatives
Setting
The Salon de l'Horloge at the Quai d'Orsay, the French Foreign Ministry, a grand ceremonial hall with high ceilings, ornate moldings, and large windows overlooking the Seine.
Characters
Frank B. Kellogg
primary
A distinguished man in his early 70s, with a tall, lean build, slightly stooped shoulders from years of desk work. His face is angular, with deep-set eyes under prominent brows, and thinning gray hair combed neatly back. His hands are well-kept but show the beginning of age spots.
Aristide Briand
primary
A distinguished French statesman in his mid-60s, Aristide Briand has a lean but sturdy build, with a prominent nose and deep-set eyes that convey both intelligence and weariness. His thinning gray hair is combed back neatly, and his well-trimmed mustache adds to his dignified appearance.
French Diplomat
secondary
A distinguished middle-aged man with a refined posture, sharp features, and neatly trimmed salt-and-pepper mustache. His piercing blue eyes convey both intelligence and a calculated reserve.
American Aide
secondary
A young man in his late twenties, of average height with a lean build. His dark hair is neatly combed, and he wears wire-rimmed glasses that lend him an air of studiousness. His hands are slightly ink-stained from handling documents.
Journalist
background
A middle-aged man with a lean build, short-cropped dark hair, and a slightly weathered face. He wears round wire-rimmed glasses that reflect the light from the ornate chandeliers. His hands are calloused from years of note-taking and camera handling.
Dialog
Aristide Briand
Monsieur Kellogg, this parchment bears more than ink—it carries the hopes of nations weary of war's cruel harvest.
Frank B. Kellogg
It's a sturdy first step, Aristide—though I reckon the path ahead will need more than noble words to keep it clear of brambles.
French Diplomat
Monsieur le Ministre, the Italian delegation inquires whether Article II's renunciation applies equally to... defensive mobilizations.
Aristide Briand
Tell them the Pact, like Janus' temple doors, must swing both ways—or it shall remain forever shut.
Frank B. Kellogg
Your Latin references won't translate well in Topeka, my friend. Best we call it what it is—an agreement between gentlemen to settle disputes like gentlemen.