"The Menagerie" Line-by-Line

[Leandar]

(Act Three)

(Enterprise flies through space as Kirk, Mendez, Spock and witnesses enter the courtroom)

Captain's log, stardate 3012.4. Despite our best efforts to disengage computers, the Enterprise is still locked on a heading for the mysterious planet Talos IV. Meanwhile, as required by Starfleet General Orders, a preliminary hearing on Lt. Commander Spock is being convened, and in all the years of my service, this is the most painful moment I've ever faced.

Kirk: This hearing is convened. Mr. Spock, you're aware of your right to counsel of your choice?

 

[scotpens]

SPOCK: Sir, I waive counsel. Further, I waive rights to this hearing and request immediate court-martial.

 

[Leandar]

Kirk: Request denied.

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: May I inquire on what grounds Captain?

 

[Leandar]

Kirk: Mutiny requires a trial board of no less than three command officers. Since there are only two of that rank available...

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: Sir, I must point that there are 3 officers of command rank available. Yourself, Commodore Mendez and Captain Christopher Pike.

 

[Leandar]

Kirk: Denied! Captain Pike is a complete invalid.

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: I think you'll find he's still on the active duty list.

 

[Leandar]

(Kirk looks at Mendez)

Mendez: We didn't have the heart to retire him, Jim. He's got you. Whatever he's up to, he's planned it well.

 

[LeadHead]

Later...

Captains Log, Stardate 3012.6. General Court Martial Convened. Mister Spock has again waived council and has entered a plea of guilty.

 

[Leandar]

(Everyone is in full dress uniform. Mendez, as presiding officer, rings the bell to bring court to order)

Mendez: Mr. Spock, are you aware that in pleading guilty, that a further charge involving the death penalty must be brought against you should this vessel enter the Talos star group?

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: I am.

 

[Leandar]

Mendez: Why? What does it accomplish to go there, or to take Captain Pike there? I want to know why!

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: Are your comments a part of the record Sir?

 

[Leandar]

Mendez (growing frustrated): Yes, it's on the record!

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: Thank you. Request Monitor Screen be engaged.

 

[Leandar]

Mendez: For what purpose?

 

[LeadHead]

Spock: To comply with the request you just made, Sir, that I explain the importance of going to Talos IV.

 

[Leandar]

Kirk: By asking him ''why,'' you've opened the door to any evidence he may wish to present. Apparently what he had in mind.

 

[LeadHead]

Mendez: Present your evidence. Screen on.