









                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                              
                          "In Theory" 
                          #40274-199 
                              
                          Written by 
                 Joe Menosky & Ronald D. Moore 
                              
                          Directed by 
                        Patrick Stewart 


THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.

Copyright 1991 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

                         FINAL DRAFT
 
                       MARCH 20, 1991
 


          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - CAST 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "In Theory" 

                             CAST                               
                              
                PICARD             ENSIGN JENNA D'SORA
                RIKER              
                DATA               ENSIGN McKNIGHT
                BEVERLY            
                TROI               
                GEORDI             
                WORF               
                GUINAN             
                O'BRIEN            
                KEIKO              
                COMPUTER VOICE 
    
                Non-Speaking       
                  NURSE              
                  SECURITY OFFICERS  
                  THORNE             
                  LIEUTENANT VAN MAYTER
                  DATA'S CAT         
                  SUPERNUMERARIES    

            STAR TREK: "In Theory" - 3/20/91 - SETS 

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION 
                          "In Theory" 
                      
                             SETS 

            INTERIORS                  EXTERIORS
          
            USS ENTERPRISE             USS ENTERPRISE
              MAIN BRIDGE
              CAPTAIN'S READY ROOM     SHUTTLE
              OBSERVATION LOUNGE
              CORRIDOR                 DARK MATTER NEBULA
              MAIN ENGINEERING
              SICKBAY
              TEN FORWARD
              TROI'S OFFICE
              DATA'S QUARTERS
              JENNA'S QUARTERS
              TORPEDO BAY
              CONCERT HALL
          
            SHUTTLE

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/17/91 - TEASER       1.

                STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION                  
                          "In Theory"                               
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship is on the outskirts of a DARK MATTER NEBULA.
	This material is not normally visible to the eye, so
	all we should see at this point is a large black space
	devoid of stars hanging in front of the ship. Perhaps
	some nearby stars around the periphery of the nebula
	are partly obscured by the gaseous material, thus
	indicating that something is blocking our view.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Captain's Log: Stardate 44932.3
			The Enterprise is preparing to
			enter the Mar Oscura, an
			unexplored dark matter nebula
			first identified over a century
			ago.

2    INT. TORPEDO BAY

	This is the torpedo operations center. Launch bays for
	torpedos are set into one of the bulkheads. DATA is
	working on a photon torpedo which has been slid out of
	one of the launch bays.

					PICARD (V.O.)
			Commander Data is modifying
			several of our photon torpedos
			for an experiment designed to
			elicit more information about this
			unusual phenomenon.

3    NEW ANGLE

	Revealing ENSIGN JENNA D'SORA as she moves over to
	assist Data. Jenna is of Mediterranean descent,
	petite, and almost fragile in appearance. But her
	doll-like face belies the fact that she is a veteran
	security officer who could probably hold her own
	against anyone aboard ship. Emotionally, as we will
	learn, she is more fragile.


       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - TEASER       1A.

3    CONTINUED:

	On the surface this manifests itself only as an
	eagerness to please, a puppy-dog friendliness that asks
	for approval and affection.

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - 3/20/91 - TEASER          2.

3    CONTINUED:

					DATA
			The initial dispersal pattern
			should not be more than seven
			kilometers in diameter.

					JENNA
				(makes adjustment)
			Six point eight kilometers...

	Jenna is just a tiny bit distracted, a little quiet...
	but it's enough for Data to pick up on.

					DATA
			That should suffice.
				(beat)
			Is there something occupying your
			thoughts, Jenna? You are somewhat
			subdued today...

					JENNA
			I bumped into Jeff in the
			turbolift again this morning.

					DATA
			Was the experience as emotionally
			problematic as last week's
			encounter?

	Beat... Jenna doesn't answer directly, but keeps going
	with her thought.

					JENNA
			He... asked me to dinner.

					DATA
			What was your response?

					JENNA
			I told him I'd think about it.

					DATA
			As you requested, I must now
			remind you of the reasons you
			decided to end your relationship
			with Jeff.

	Jenna's eyes roll slightly... and there's a bit of
	humor in her expression... a small bargain between
	friends.

         STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/8/91 - TEASER 3-3A.           

3    CONTINUED: (2)

					JENNA
			I guess I asked for this... go
			ahead.

					DATA
			You objected to the fact that Jeff
			seemed unwilling to set aside
			sufficient time for you. You said
			he never did... the little things.
			He was unresponsive. You disliked
			the sound he made when he ate his
			soup...

					JENNA
				(with humor)
			Okay, okay... I remember.

					DATA
			This is the third time I have
			refreshed your memory. Do you
			wish to rescind our agreement?

					JENNA
			No, no. It's for my own good.
			It's just so easy to forget.
				(indicates device)
			Hand me that sequencer.

					DATA
			Many lovers throughout history
			have had similar difficulties.
			Anne Boleyn was quite distressed
			that Henry the Eighth preferred
			the company of his huntsmen to
			that of his wife.

	Data hands her a small instrument. She waves it a few
	times over the inside of the torpedo, taking a reading.


        STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/8/91 - TEASER        4.

3    CONTINUED: (3)

					JENNA
				(wryly)
			As I recall, she ended up losing
			her head. I guess I'm well out of
			this.
				(beat)
			When did you develop an interest
			in romantic historical figures?

					DATA
			Six weeks ago, when you and Jeff
			dissolved your relationship, I
			saw an excellent opportunity to
			study that aspect of human
			intimacy. Also, I believed it
			was my obligation to do so.

					JENNA
			"Obligation"? What do you mean?

					DATA
			I anticipated this would be a
			difficult period for you. As your
			friend, it is my responsibility
			to be supportive in times of need.

					JENNA
				(genuinely touched)
			That is really sweet, Data.

	She looks at him with gratitude, affection... and
	something more...

        STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - TEASER        5.

4    NEW ANGLE

	Data closes the panel on the torpedo. Jenna moves to
	a control console on the bulkhead. Data gives
	everything one final check and then steps away from
	the torpedo and nods to Jenna. She works the controls
	and the torpedo SLIDES INTO the launch bay.

					DATA
				(hits communicator)
			Data to Bridge. We are ready for
			the first illumination test.

5    INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	RIKER in Command, ENSIGN MCKNIGHT at Con, WORF at
	Tactical.

					RIKER
				(to com)
			Acknowledged. All science
			stations stand by... we're about
			to light up the nebula. Mister
			Worf?

					WORF
				(reading console)
			Launch bay one shows ready,
			Commander.

					RIKER
			Fire torpedo.

	Worf works the console.

6    INT. TORPEDO BAY (OPTICAL)

	Data and Jenna are reading displays and working
	consoles. A SOUND EFFECT is heard and some lights
	FLASH to indicate the torpedo launch. A display
	monitor gives an EXTERIOR VIEW of the nebula outside
	the ship.

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - 3/20/91 - TEASER          6.

7    EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The torpedo DISAPPEARS into the nebula. After a couple
	seconds, the torpedo EXPLODES and there is a BRILLIANT
	SHOW OF LIGHT. The dark matter has been illuminated
	by the display and the gaseous cloud can be seen
	clearly for the first time.

8    INT. TORPEDO BAY (OPTICAL)

	Data and Jenna watch the monitor.

					JENNA
				(softly)
			It's beautiful.
				(she moves closer to
				 him)
			Like watching fireworks when I
			was a little girl.

	Jenna turns her gaze to Data... and there is a great
	deal more in her look than simple friendship. We get
	another hint of her growing feelings for him. As they
	watch the brilliant light show together...

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT ONE       7.

                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

9    INT. TEN FORWARD

	A woodwind quintet composed of Data (oboe), Jenna
	(flute), KEIKO, (clarinet) and TWO N.D. MALE
	CREWMEMBERS (bassoon, French horn), is playing a piece
	of music to the patrons in the room, including O'BRIEN.

	The music comes to a stop and there is APPLAUSE from
	the audience. The members of the quartet stand and
	acknowledge the crowd. O'Brien moves toward the
	"stage" area along with a few other well-wishers.

					O'BRIEN
				(to Keiko)
			It was wonderful.

	He gives her a quick kiss.

					KEIKO
			Thanks.

	Data sets down his instrument, Jenna keeps her flute in
	hand, still stares at her music, obviously unhappy.
	Data cocks his head in puzzlement.

					DATA
			Is anything wrong?

					JENNA
			My tempo was off. I felt like
			I was really rushing it.

					DATA
			I do not believe that is so. Your
			rhythmic control has improved
			markedly. I heard no fluctuations
			during the performance.

	She relaxes a bit -- Data's support means a lot to her.

					JENNA
			Well, maybe. But I ruined the
			coda. I got confused with the
			phrasing... I kept breathing at
			the wrong times.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT ONE       7A.

9    CONTINUED:

					DATA
			The contrapuntal nature of the
			composition is quite demanding.
			We will give the rhythmic
			patterns more attention in our
			next rehearsal.
				(beat)
			However, I am quite certain that
			the audience was oblivious to such
			nuances. They seemed to enjoy
			the performance thoroughly.

	She looks at him and smiles -- his kind attention makes
	her feel better.

					JENNA
			Thanks, Data... you're really
			sweet.

10   INT. TEN FORWARD - LATER

	A short time later. Data, Jenna, Keiko, and O'Brien
	are sitting at one of the tables, sharing drinks.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT ONE       8.

10   CONTINUED:

					KEIKO
			... every night, Miles leaves his
			socks on the floor. When we got
			married, I made the mistake of
			picking them up a few times...
			then I realized if I kept it up
			I'd be doing it the rest of my
			life... so I stopped... figuring
			he'd get the message and do it
			himself.

	Miles smiles easily, unbothered.

					KEIKO
			One night goes by... two... a
			week... ten days... by now there's
			a pile of socks half a meter
			high!

					O'BRIEN
			Come on... it wasn't half a
			meter...

					KEIKO
			After two weeks I couldn't stand
			it any more -- I bundled them up
			and put them in the cleaning
			processor. And I'm still doing
			it.

					O'BRIEN
			And a very good job of it she
			does, too...

	He winks broadly at Data as Keiko whirls on him, rising
	to the jibe. O'Brien laughs and puts his arm around
	her. They kiss lightly on the lips, a loving couple
	accepting each other's faults and foibles. Jenna
	regards them, a look of faint envy crossing her face.
	She glances at Data, touches his arm occasionally, and
	as she talks, her manner suggests that they, too, are
	a couple...

        STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE 9-9A.           

10   CONTINUED: (2)

					JENNA
			Keiko, you sound just like Data.
			He came to my quarters the other
			day to give me a music lesson,
			and he said the funniest thing...
			how did you put it, Data?

					DATA
			I believe I observed that you seem
			to have an aversion to
			orderliness... but it was not
			intended as a humorous remark...

					JENNA
			So before we started, he gallantly
			offered to help me straighten up.

	She threads her arm fondly through his, clearly wanting
	to establish that they, too, have this easy-going
	relationship.

					DATA
			And a very good job of it I did,
			too.

	He gives O'Brien a broad wink and the group laughs.
	Data is pleased that he has caused this reaction --
	though he's not entirely certain why.

									CUT TO:

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE       10.

11
thru	OMITTED
13

14   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship near the nebula.

15   INT. MAIN BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Data is at the aft science station, studying
	information from the nebula.

					PICARD
			Report, Mister Data.

					DATA
			I am nearly finished compiling
			the readings from our most recent
			illuminatory burst. They differ
			considerably from surveys of
			similar nebulae.

					PICARD
			How so?

					DATA
			Dark matter density is nearly one
			order of magnitude higher than
			previously found.
				(beat)
			Lifeforms here may have developed
			in ways never before observed.

					RIKER
				(to Data)
			Interesting hypothesis. Are there
			any M-Class planets we could check
			out?

					DATA
			Several, Sir. The nearest is
			approximately three light years
			from our present position.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE       11.

15   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			It's worth a look. We'll continue
			with our survey along the way.
				(to McKnight)
			Ensign, get the planet's
			coordinates from Commander Data
			and plot a course, three quarters
			impulse.

									CUT TO:

16   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship ENTERS the nebula at impulse.

16A  INT. SICKBAY (PREVIOUSLY SCENE 11)

	BEVERLY and a NURSE are standing at the large wall
	monitor, running a complex experiment.

					BEVERLY
				(to Nurse)
			Let's increase the flow rate --
			see if that helps.

	The Nurse nods and then leaves. Beverly looks at the
	monitor for a beat, then moves toward her office.

16B  ON BEVERLY (PREVIOUSLY SCENE 12)

	As she walks by a RACK OF INSTRUMENTS on the wall...
	Several steps past it she hears a glassy, metallic
	CLINK! She stops... looks back at the rack in
	puzzlement... then looks down at the floor.

16C  NEW ANGLE (PREVIOUSLY SCENE 13)

	Revealing a MEDICAL INSTRUMENT lying on the deck
	beneath the rack. She's puzzled.

	She looks around, but there's no one here at the
	moment. With a trace of annoyance, Beverly picks up
	the instrument and replaces it in the rack.

									CUT TO:

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE       12.

17   INT. TORPEDO BAY

	Data and Jenna are working on an open photon torpedo.
	Jenna is installing a small cannister inside the
	central chamber of the torpedo. Data monitors with
	a small digital instrument. The work doesn't require
	their constant attention.

					JENNA
			Sometimes in the summer we went
			on cookouts... just my little
			brother and me, and Mother... She
			was hopeless without a replicator.
			But we didn't care.

					DATA
			Children often do not develop a
			discerning palette until well
			beyond adolescence.

					JENNA
			It's wasn't that. It just felt...
			so good to be together... as a
			family. We didn't have much of
			that after my father died... so
			those times were really special.
				(beat)
			I wish we were back there now...
			you and I...

					DATA
			The unidirectional nature of the
			time continuum makes that an
			unlikely possibility.

					JENNA
				(laughs)
			That's one thing I've always loved
			about you. You make me laugh.
				(beat)
			You know, maybe I've been with
			the wrong men. Why couldn't they
			be like you, Data? You've got
			everything.

					DATA
			That is not true. I have no human
			feelings.

	She takes his hand in a friendly fashion.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV 4/17/91 - ACT ONE       13.

17   CONTINUED:

					JENNA
			But you've still given me more
			than any of them. You've spent
			time with me when I was lonely...
			you've encouraged me when I was
			down. No one could have been
			kinder to me... those are the
			things that matter...

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT ONE       14.

17   CONTINUED: (3)

	Jenna smiles.

					JENNA
				(continuing, re: the
				 job)
			Well, I think that's it.
				(with put on formality)
			With your permission, Commander,
			I'll be going.

					DATA
				(straight)
			Permission granted.

	She gives him a friendly kiss on the cheek, but only
	pulls a short distance away afterwards.

					JENNA
			I don't know if you're aware of
			it... but you're very handsome...

	She kisses him again, this time longer and on the lips
	-- a real kiss, which Data doesn't resist. Jenna
	smiles.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			See you tomorrow...

	She turns and leaves the room. OFF Data's reaction.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO       15.

                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

18   INT. TEN FORWARD

	It's after hours and the room is deserted. GUINAN is
	mixing several drinks in odd-shaped glasses on the bar.
	Data ENTERS, there is a lost, puzzled expression on
	his face.

					GUINAN
			Hi, Data. Want to try something
			new?

	Data sits at the bar and looks at the drinks she's
	making with only slight curiosity.

					GUINAN
				(continuing)
			This is a concoction I heard about
			on Prakal Two. I think it's
			great, but I want another opinion,
			so...

	She carefully combines a yellow and a blue liquid in
	a glass, producing a sickly green potion. She offers
	it to Data. He takes a small drink. She waits for
	a reaction.

					DATA
			Eighty-seven percent Saurian
			Brandy... Targ milk and Denevian
			mead comprise the rest... an
			unusually high concentration of
			mono-saccharides and fructose
			compounds.

					GUINAN
			Too sweet, huh?

	Data gives her a look -- "Kool Aid." Guinan drinks
	some of the potion herself and Data retreats into
	thoughtful silence.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO       16.

18   CONTINUED:

	Guinan quickly picks up on the fact that something's
	on his mind.

					GUINAN
			If I didn't know you better, I'd
			say you were... preoccupied.

					DATA
			Ensign D'Sora just gave me what
			could be considered a very...
			passionate kiss in the Torpedo
			Bay.

	Guinan gives him a long piercing look.

					GUINAN
			Really?
				(beat)
			How did it make you feel?

					DATA
			I cannot feel because---

					GUINAN
			I know, I know. You have no
			emotions.
				(very intrigued)
			What I mean is, what's going on
			in there?
				(points at his head)
			What did it make you think about?

					DATA
			I was... intrigued. Jenna seemed
			to be displaying genuine affection
			toward me.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO       17.

18   CONTINUED: (2)

					GUINAN
			And then?

					DATA
			I calculated that Jenna's actions
			to date would tend to support the
			supposition that she wishes to
			initiate a non-platonic mutually
			exclusive relationship.

					GUINAN
			You're just a starry-eyed
			romantic, aren't you?
				(before he can answer)
			What do you think of her?

					DATA
			I find her to be a competent
			officer... highly motivated...
			lacking somewhat in her
			understanding of the theory
			underlying dilithium matrix
			applications---

					GUINAN
			But what do you think of her
			personally?
				(beat)
			Do you like her?

					DATA
			I have become... used to her.

					GUINAN
			It sounds like the next step is
			up to you.
				(beat)
			So what are you gonna do about
			it?

					DATA
			I do not know. Clearly, an
			ongoing intimate relationship is
			an option. However, I am
			inexperienced in such matters.
			I require advice.

	Beat.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT TWO      18.

18   CONTINUED: (3)

					GUINAN
			Well, don't look at me.

	Data obligingly looks away from her.

					GUINAN
			No, no. I mean, this time I don't
			have any advice to give. You
			can't tell someone how to handle
			their first love affair. They have
			to find a way to do that
			themselves.

	Data thinks for a moment.

					DATA
			But I am incapable of love.

					GUINAN
				(knowing look)
			Then this should be a very unique
			experience.

	On Data's expression...

									CUT TO:

19   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	In the nebula.

20   INT. CORRIDOR

	Data is about to go into his quarters. From o.s. we
	hear...

					GEORDI'S VOICE
			Missing someone?

21   NEW ANGLE

	Revealing GEORDI walking toward Data. He is carrying
	Data's CAT in his arms.

					GEORDI
			I found Spot wandering through
			the corridor two sections away.

	Geordi hands Data the cat.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/25/91 - ACT TWO      19.

21   CONTINUED:

					DATA
				(puzzled)
			Thank you.

					GEORDI
			Forget to secure the door when
			you left?

					DATA
			The door sensor has been
			programmed to recognize only
			humanoid forms for entry or
			egress. Spot could not have
			triggered the mechanism.

	They EXIT to...

22   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS

	Data puts the cat down.

					GEORDI
			Maybe someone came in while you
			were away and let him out by
			accident. Has anything been
			disturbed?

					DATA
				(looks around very
				 quickly)
			No.
				(to com)
			Computer, has anyone entered my
			quarters in the last twelve hours
			other than myself or Commander
			La Forge?

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Negative.

					GEORDI
			That's pretty strange... we should
			report a possible unauthorized
			entry to security, just to be on
			the safe side.

	Data nods in agreement and Geordi moves toward the
	door, but Data stops him.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT TWO      20.

22   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Geordi, may I ask your advice
			concerning a... personal matter?

					GEORDI
			Sure, Data.

					DATA
			Should I pursue a relationship
			with Ensign D'Sora?

	Geordi is caught off-guard and it shows.

					DATA
				(prompting)
			Ensign Jenna D'Sora. Serial
			number CL-10928---

					GEORDI
			Yeah, I know who she is. I
			thought she and Jeff Arton...

					DATA
			They discontinued their
			association. Now she has made
			the... first move in initiating
			a relationship with me.
				(beat)
			What should I do?

	Geordi thinks for a long beat, then gropes for
	something to tell his friend.

					GEORDI
			Hmmm... if she just ended a bad
			situation... sometimes it takes
			people a while... but if they
			jump into another relationship
			--

	From the confused look on Data's face, Geordi can tell
	this isn't helping much, but he keeps going.

					GEORDI
				(continuing)
			... see, that can be a problem...
			unless, of course, she is ready...
			and then it depends if you're
			really serious. It's uh... kind
			of complicated.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO       21.

22   CONTINUED: (2)

	Geordi tries to think of the right thing to say... but
	he feels a little helpless here... finally gives up.

					GEORDI
				(after a beat)
			My advice to you is... to ask
			someone else for advice. Someone
			with a little more experience in
			these things.

									CUT TO:

22A  OMITTED

23   INT. TROI'S OFFICE

	TROI and Data sitting.

					TROI
			I think you should be careful.
			This is not some experiment you're
			running. Jenna is a living,
			breathing person with needs and
			feelings that have to be
			considered.

					DATA
			Then you believe I should not
			pursue this any further.

					TROI
			No, I didn't say that... I just
			want you to be aware that this
			will be unlike any other... more
			casual relationship that you've
			attempted.

					DATA
			I have studied a great deal of
			human literature on the subject
			of love and romantic liaisons.
			There are many role models for
			me to emulate.

					TROI
			Ultimately, Jenna will care for
			you because of what you are. Not
			what you imitate out of a book.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO       22.

23   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			My programming may be inadequate
			to the task.

	Troi gives him a sympathetic smile.

					TROI
			We're all more than the sum of
			our parts, Data. You'll have to
			be more than the sum of your
			programming.

									CUT TO:

24   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Worf and Data near the Tactical station.

					WORF
			Klingons do not... pursue
			relationships. They conquer that
			which they desire.

	Data nods and moves to leave, but Worf stops him.

					WORF
				(continuing)
			However...
				(quietly, with meaning)
			Ensign D'Sora serves under my
			command. If she were...
			mistreated, I would be very...
			displeased.

	Data gets the message.

					DATA
			I understand.

	Data walks away... glances back once at Worf... then
	turns and keeps going.

									CUT TO:

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/3/91 - ACT TWO       23.

25   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

					RIKER
			I think you should pursue it.
			First of all, she's a beautiful
			woman who seems to be crazy about
			you.

	Data is still troubled by something.

					DATA
			Jenna has clearly demonstrated
			how she feels about me. But I
			am not capable of returning those
			feelings.

					RIKER
			I'm sure she's aware of that.
				(beat)
			Data, when you get involved with
			another person, there's always
			a risk. Of disappointment. Of
			getting hurt.

					DATA
			I cannot get hurt. But she can.

					RIKER
			Jenna knows that. And she's
			obviously decided to take the
			chance. Data, when it really
			works between two people, it's
			like nothing you've ever
			experienced -- the rewards are
			far beyond simple friendship.

					DATA
			How far beyond, sir?

					RIKER
			Well, that's what I hope you're
			about to find out.

	Data thinks for a beat.

					DATA
			Thank you, Commander.

	Data EXITS to...

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT TWO      23A.

26   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Data intercepts Picard as he's heading for his Ready
	Room.

					DATA
			Captain, I am seeking advice in---

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO       24.

26   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			Yes, I've heard, Data... and I
			would be delighted to offer you
			any advice I have on understanding
			women.
				(beat)
			As soon as I have some, I'll let
			you know.

	Picard continues to the Ready Room. OFF Data's
	reaction.

									CUT TO:

27   INT. CORRIDOR

	Data is walking purposefully along the corridor, a
	bouquet of flowers in his hand.

					DATA (V.O.)
			Second Officer's personal log,
			Stardate 44935.6. After
			conferring with my colleagues
			regarding the nature of romantic
			love in general, and my own
			situation in particular, I have
			reached a decision.

	He stops in front of a door. It chimes and opens.
	Jenna is standing inside, wearing an attractive,
	off-duty outfit.

28   INT. JENNA'S QUARTERS - CONTINUOUS

	Jenna smiles about the flowers.

					JENNA
			They're beautiful. Come in.

	She takes the flowers from him, and he follows her into
	the room, the door closing behind.

	Jenna's quarters are more "personal" than any we've
	seen on the Enterprise. "Creative disorganization"
	seems to be the dominant motif. A profusion of art
	objects and decorations are combined with a couple of
	clothing articles casually left where they were
	dropped. It looks very "comfortable."

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO      24A.

28   CONTINUED:

	She raises the flowers to catch their pleasant
	fragrance.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			Mmmm. What are they?

					DATA
			Crystilia. Their fragrance is
			an evolutionary response to the
			acrid nature of the atmosphere
			on Telemarius Three.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO       25.

28   CONTINUED: (2)

					JENNA
				(re: Data)
			You silver-tongued devil.
				(turns)
			Let me find somewhere to put
			these.

	She scans the densely decorated room.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			Hmmm. That might not be so
			easy...

	As Jenna looks around, Data follows her further into
	the room.

					DATA
			It seems that your quarters have
			reverted to their earlier state
			of disorder.

					JENNA
			I know. I'm hopeless.

	Jenna finally locates a vase and arranges the flowers
	in it.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			There.
				(regarding them)
			They're beautiful, Data. It's
			so sweet of you...

					DATA
			It was Commander Riker who
			suggested this particular flower.
			He said that it had worked for
			him in the past.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT TWO      25A.

28   CONTINUED: (3)

	Jenna raises an eyebrow.

					JENNA
			You didn't talk to the entire ship
			about us...

					DATA
			No. In actuality, less than one
			percent of the Enterprise crew
			was involved. It was necessary
			to balance theory with
			experiential referents. Both are
			required for a program of this
			nature.
				(to Computer)
			Computer, decrease illumination
			level by one third standard lux.

	The lights dim to a romantic glow. Data purposefully
	sits down on the couch, Jenna remains standing, a
	puzzled look on her face.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/25/91 - ACT TWO      26.

28   CONTINUED: (4)

					JENNA
				(re: the situation)
			This is all part of a program?

					DATA
			Yes. One which I have just
			created for romantic
			relationships.

	Jenna smiles, sits down next to him, much closer than
	she would to "a friend."

					JENNA
				(with humor)
			So... I'm just a small variable
			in one of your new computational
			environments?

					DATA
			You are much more than that,
			Jenna. I have written a
			subroutine specifically for you
			-- a program within the program.
			I have devoted a considerable
			share of my internal resources
			to its development.

	Jenna looks touched. She leans toward him, still
	appreciates the humor of the situation.

					JENNA
			That's the nicest thing anyone's
			ever said to me.

	Jenna puts her arms around him and they kiss...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT THREE      27.

                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

29   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	travelling through the nebula.

30   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard, Riker, Worf, McKnight at Con, Data at Ops.

					PICARD
			Estimated time of arrival, Mister
			Data?

					DATA
			We will reach the M class planet
			in approximately eleven hours.

	Picard nods.

					PICARD
			You have the Bridge, Number One.

	Riker takes the Captain's chair; FOLLOW Picard into the
	Ready Room.

31   INT. READY ROOM - CONTINUOUS

	Picard ENTERS the room, walks casually towards his desk
	-- and STOPS.

	The top of his desk is completely bare. Puzzled, he
	glances around.

32   INCLUDE THE FLOOR

	under the desk. Where everything once on top --
	computer terminal, PADDS, PADD holder, tea mug -- have
	been somehow dumped onto the floor.

	Picard reacts, curious. He stares at the mess for a
	beat.

					PICARD
				(keying insignia)
			Picard to Lieutenant Worf.

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT THREE     28.

32   CONTINUED:

					WORF'S COM VOICE
			Yes, Captain?

					PICARD
			Step into my Ready Room, please.
			And bring a tricorder.

					WORF'S COM VOICE
			Aye, Sir.

	Picard crouches down, inspecting the objects. Worf
	ENTERS the room and Picard stands back up.

					WORF
			Captain?

	Worf stares at the floor for a moment. Then back to
	Picard.

					PICARD
			What do you make of this?

					WORF
			I am puzzled, Sir.

					PICARD
			So am I, Mister Worf.

	Worf aims the tricorder at the objects and takes a
	quick reading.

					WORF
			Captain, the only detectable
			bioelectric residuals are your
			own.
				(a beat)
			You did not --

					PICARD
			-- No. I did not.

	Worf scowls. He quickly checks the bathroom.

					PICARD
				(continuing)
			It seems we have a poltergeist.

					WORF
			Sir?

					PICARD
			A mischievous spirit.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE      29.

32   CONTINUED: (2)

					WORF
				(understanding)
			Hoq-JoH.

					PICARD
				(beat)
			Perhaps this is some kind of
			practical joke.

					WORF
				(taken aback)
			Sir?

					PICARD
			Perhaps not.

					WORF
			I cannot explain how an intruder
			could have entered this room...
			I recommend we go to Red Alert.

					PICARD
			Not yet.

					WORF
			Then I will order one of my
			officers to stand watch.
				(keys insignia)
			Worf to Ensign --

					PICARD
				(cutting him off)
			-- That's alright, Mister Worf.
			For now, I think circumstances
			warrant our caution -- nothing
			more.

       STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE 30-32.         

32   CONTINUED: (3)

					WORF
				(reluctantly)
			As you wish, Captain.

	Picard dismisses him with a nod, and Worf turns and
	goes out the door. Picard stares again at the objects
	beneath the desk. OFF his still puzzled face.

33   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	In the nebula.

34
thru	OMITTED
35

36   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

	Data is painting at an easel. The door CHIMES.

					DATA
			Enter.

	He stops painting and turns toward the door as Jenna
	steps inside, carrying an object in both her hands.

					JENNA
			I know it's a little unexpected...

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT THREE     33.

36   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			You are correct. I did not
			anticipate your arrival until
			nineteen hundred hours.

	Data stays at the easel, continues to paint.

					JENNA
			I couldn't wait... I wanted you
			to have this.

	She holds the object out to Data -- it is a small
	alien sculpture, exotic and beautiful. He studies it,
	but does not take it.

					DATA
			You have often expressed
			dissatisfaction with the Spartan
			nature of my quarters. Is this
			an attempt at embellishment?

					JENNA
			The cat's out of the bag.

					DATA
				(looking around)
			Spot?

					JENNA
			I mean you've caught me in the
			act. I'm just trying to brighten
			things up around here.
				(re: the sculpture)
			It's Tyrinean. What do you think?

	Data studies the object for a moment.

					DATA
			Its line is both fluid and formal,
			yet retains an unpremeditated
			quality. The tactility of the
			surface enrichment is evocative
			of the neo-primitive period in
			Tyrinean blade carving.

					JENNA
			I hadn't thought of it that way.

	Jenna looks at Data, still seated at his easel.

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT THREE     33A.

36   CONTINUED: (2)

					JENNA
				(re: painting)
			I'm sorry. Don't let me
			interrupt.

					DATA
			Alright.

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT THREE     34.

36   CONTINUED: (3)

	Then he turns back and continues painting. If it was
	anybody else, the action would be the height of
	rudeness. Jenna can't help but react a moment, even
	though she knows he doesn't intend a slight. She
	recovers.

					JENNA
				(playfully)
			Data.

					DATA
				(looks up)
			Yes?

					JENNA
			The Book of Love, chapter four,
			paragraph seventeen: When your
			girlfriend arrives with a gift,
			stop whatever it is you're doing,
			and give her your undivided
			attention.

					DATA
			My literature search was
			apparently incomplete. I
			discovered twenty-nine books with
			that title, but none contained
			that particular admonition.

					JENNA
				(playful)
			That's because we're writing our
			own version as we go -- you and
			I.

	A long beat as Data thinks about this. He sets down
	his paintbrush.

					DATA
			I should not have resumed my
			painting?

					JENNA
			No.

					DATA
			Despite your suggestion that I
			continue?

					JENNA
			Exactly.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE      35.

36   CONTINUED: (4)

	Another thoughtful beat.

					DATA
			The nature of our interactions
			is considerably more subtle and
			complex than I had anticipated.
			I have much to learn.

	A beat as Jenna gets an idea.

					JENNA
			Let's start with this.

	She hands him back the sculpture.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			A critical analysis isn't
			necessarily the best response to
			a gift.

	A beat.

					DATA
			Perhaps if I looked for a suitable
			place to display it.

					JENNA
				(pleased)
			Much better.

	Data stands and walks with the carving to a remote
	corner of the room, placing it onto a bare surface.

					DATA
			The ambient light in this location
			accentuates its contours.

	Data observes Jenna's neutral response. Then thinks
	for a beat. He returns to a much more central table.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE      36.

36   CONTINUED: (5)

					DATA
				(continuing)
			However, a gift should not
			necessarily be placed according
			to aesthetic criteria. A more
			central location will carry added
			meaning.

	He places the carving in the more noticeable location.
	Jenna steps over to him, takes his hand.

					JENNA
			Data, what's important is that
			you're trying. You don't know
			how much that means to me.

	She indicates the easel.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			Now, go back to your painting.

	Data starts to go back to the easel... hesitates, looks
	at her.

					JENNA
				(smiles)
			This time I really mean it.
				(kisses him on cheek)
			I'll see you tonight.

	FOLLOW Jenna as she goes out the door, smile on her
	face.

37   INT. CORRIDOR - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)

	Jenna walks out of Data's quarters and the door closes
	behind her. She takes a few steps, still smiling, then
	pauses a moment. The smile fades for just an instant,
	replaced by the hint of a doubt about this situation.
	She walks back into her room... as a wall panel on
	the corridor bulkhead DEMATERIALIZES, briefly showing
	the wiring within.

									CUT TO:

38   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship in the nebula.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT THREE      37.

38A  INT. READY ROOM

	Picard is working on a terminal at his desk.

					RIKER'S COM VOICE
			Riker to Captain Picard. You're
			needed on the Bridge.

					PICARD
				(to COM)
			Acknowledged.

	FOLLOW Picard as he stands and heads to the door and
	onto the Bridge.

39   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - CONTINUOUS

	Picard steps onto the Bridge from the Ready Room.
	Riker is in Command, Data, Worf, McKnight at their
	respective positions.

					RIKER
			We've reached the designated
			coordinates.

	Riker indicates the viewscreen and they turn to look.

					RIKER
				(continuing)
			But the M-Class planet... it's
			gone.

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/25/91 - ACT THREE     38.

40   INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	Nothing but the nebula and empty space.

	OFF Picard's reaction.

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT FOUR      39.

                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

41   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard, Riker, Worf, Data, and McKnight turn from the
	viewscreen.

					PICARD
			Are you sure there was no
			malfunction in the sensors?

					DATA
			No, sir. Lateral EM scanners
			registered radiation indicative
			of an M-Class planet.

					WORF
			Sir!

42   INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	A reddish-brown planet now fills the screen. Everyone
	reacts to the sight.

43   RESUME

	Picard and Riker exchange a bemused look.

					PICARD
				(to Data)
			Mister Data, run a complete
			systems diagnostic --

	Picard is interrupted.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			-- Atmospheric decompression in
			Bridge Observation Lounge...
			Environmental compensation
			sequence has been initiated...

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/26/91 - ACT FOUR     39A.

43   CONTINUED:

	Everyone is taken aback.

					WORF
				(looks up puzzled)
			I am not registering a hull
			breach.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/26/91 - ACT FOUR      40.

43   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Scan for lifeforms.

					WORF
				(scanning)
			None, Sir.

					RIKER
				(to Computer)
			Computer, boost the structural
			integrity field around the hull
			by one hundred percent.

					COMPUTER VOICE
			Field augmented...

					DATA
				(off instruments)
			Captain. Standard air pressure
			has been reestablished in the
			Observation lounge.

	Everyone looks at each other -- another mysterious
	development.

					PICARD
			Let's have a look.

	Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf head for the obs lounge.

44   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE

	The door opens from the Bridge and Worf ENTERS first,
	phaser drawn. He is taken aback by what he sees.

					WORF
			Captain.

	Picard, Riker, and Data immediately follow him inside.

45   THEIR POV

	The entire room has been tossed. Everything not nailed
	down -- PADDS, chairs, displays -- looks as though it's
	been bounced off the walls.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR      41.

46   RESUME

	Everyone reacts.

					WORF
				(frustrated)
			I do not understand.

	Worf rights an upturned chair as Data quickly goes to
	the outer wall and begins running his tricorder along
	it.

					RIKER
			Data, are you picking up anything?

					DATA
			I detect no unusual readings.

	Data reaches the window, passes the tricorder over it
	-- reacts.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Curious. The transparent aluminum
			alloy of this window is
			exhibiting a pattern of transient
			electrical currents.

					PICARD
			Explanation?

					DATA
			I have none. The rate is
			characteristic of a subspace
			distortion. But I am not picking
			up evidence of subspace fields.

	A beat. Picard turns to his officers.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR      42.

46   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			We will hold position while we
			seek an explanation for these
			anomalies. Divert all resources
			to that end.

	Everyone knows their jobs and as they move to EXIT...

									CUT TO:

46A  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The Enterprise at impulse, nebula in the background.

47   INT. JENNA'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL)

	Data ENTERS, carrying a PADD under his arm like a
	briefcase, looking like a cross between Ward Cleaver
	and the Man in the Grey Flannel Suit. Jenna has just
	come in, is still in uniform, and looks a little
	frazzled.

					DATA
			Hi, honey, I am home.

					JENNA
			Hi.

	He kisses her on the check. She reacts a moment to
	his manner -- they aren't living together, and Data's
	home from work attitude is a bit odd. But she brushes
	it off.

					JENNA
			Any luck at your end?

					DATA
			Negative. We performed a full
			systems diagnostic and found no
			malfunctions.

					JENNA
			We did a full security sweep.
			Nothing.

	She flops down on the couch, takes off her shoes, and
	drops them on the floor. There are several other pairs
	there -- this is something she does every night.

      STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT FOUR      43.

47   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			Can I get you a drink, dear?

	Another little take... Data's saying the right things,
	but it comes off a bit strangely.

					JENNA
			Well, yes. I think I'll have...
			a Calaman Sherry.

					DATA
			Excellent choice. I shall join
			you.

	He moves to the replicator.

					DATA
			Two Calaman Sherries.
				(to Jenna)
			Would you like some dinner as
			well?

					JENNA
			I'm too tired to think about what
			I want... maybe later.

	The replictor produces the drinks; he carries them to
	her.

					DATA
			Whatever you like, dear.

	He gives her a drink and she starts too sip. But he
	stops her arm, indicates that they should toast. He
	lifts his glass.

     STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR     43A.

47   CONTINUED: (2)

					DATA
			Darling, you remain as
			aesthetically pleasing as the day
			we first met. I believe I am the
			most fortunate sentient in this
			sector of the galaxy.

	He touches her glass with his, and then takes a drink.
	So does Jenna, though she eyes him a bit warily. This
	is feeling really strange...

					DATA
			Now... you must relax. Put your
			feet up. I will take care of
			everything.

	He rises and begins to straighten things in the
	perpetual clutter of Jenna's quarters. He picks up the
	shoes which have collected on the floor.

					DATA
			I could organize your closets.
			I have found that by grouping
			apparel first by function, and
			then by color from light to dark,
			one can more easily locate one's
			desired choice.

	He heads toward the bedroom with the shoes.

					JENNA
			Data... it's all right. You don't
			have to do that...

					DATA
			But I am happy to do it.

					JENNA
			Please... put them down.

	Acquiescent, Data puts the shoes down right where he is
	-- in the doorway. He swoops down on the couch beside
	her, utterly attentive.

					DATA
			What would you like, dear? Am
			I not paying enough attention to
			you?

					JENNA
			It's not that...

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR          44.

47   CONTINUED: (4)

					DATA
			Perhaps I have not given you
			enough compliments. Your hair
			is looking particularly silky
			tonight...

					JENNA
			Data... there's just something...
			strange... about the way you're
			acting...

	Data tries to figure that one out.

					DATA
			Am I not behaving as a solicitous
			mate?

					JENNA
			Well, yes, but...

					DATA
			Tending to your every need?

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR          45.

47   CONTINUED: (5)

					JENNA
			What is wrong with you tonight?

	Data responds to her angry tone, matching it as best
	he can.

					DATA
			My most recent self-diagnostic
			revealed no malfunctions. Perhaps
			something is wrong with you.

	Jenna stares at him, unbelieving.

					JENNA
			I've never seen you behave so...
			foolishly. Why are you doing
			this?

					DATA
				(still "angry")
			You may not tell me how I should
			behave. You are not my mother.

					JENNA
			What?

					DATA
			"You are not my mother." Is that
			not an appropriate response to
			your statement that I am behaving
			foolishly?

					JENNA
				(completely frustrated)
			Data, I think you should just
			leave.

	Data cocks his head.

					DATA
				(calm)
			You do not wish to continue our...
			lovers quarrel?

	She stares at him, dumbfounded.

					JENNA
			Is that what this is?

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR         45A.

47   CONTINUED: (6)

					DATA
			In my study of interpersonal
			dynamics, I learned that conflict
			followed by emotional release
			often strengthens a connection
			between two people.

					JENNA
			But there's just something
			forced and artificial about the
			way you're doing it. It's not
			the real you.

					DATA
			With respect to romantic
			relationships, there is no... real
			me. I am drawing upon various
			literary and cultural sources to
			help define my role.

	Jenna takes a moment to absorb all this... the whole
	thing has been an act, a part of his "program"... the
	solicitousness, the helpfulness, the argument --
	everything. After a beat she goes to him.

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR          46.

47   CONTINUED: (6)

					JENNA
			Kiss me.

	He stands and obliges her. After a beat...

					JENNA
			What were you just thinking?

					DATA
			At that particular moment, I was
			reconfiguring the warp field
			parameters, analyzing the
			collected works of Charles
			Dickens, calculating the maximum
			pressure I could safely apply to
			your lips, considering a new food
			supplement for Spot...

	His voice trails off as he notices the crestfallen look
	on her face. Jenna tries to hide her disappointment...
	even from herself.

					JENNA
				(half-hearted smile)
			I'm glad I was in there somewhere.

	She hugs him... but we can see the uneasiness growing
	on her face.

48   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	At full stop above the planet, the nebula dark in the
	background.

49   INT. BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard, Riker, Worf, and Data are at the aft science
	station.

					RIKER
				(re: viewscreen)
			A complete sensor scan of the
			planet and three survey probes
			turned up no surprises. No sign
			of life, nothing out of the
			ordinary.

   
          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/26/91 - ACT FOUR         46A.

49   CONTINUED:

					RIKER
				(re: viewscreen)
			A complete sensor scan of the
			planet and three survey probes
			turned up no surprises. No sign
			of life, nothing out of the
			ordinary.

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/28/91 - ACT FOUR          47.

49   CONTINUED:

					WORF
			Seven more unusual incidents have
			been reported. No casualties or
			damage.

					DATA
			At present, we can only state that
			a subspace effect seems to exist
			within this nebula. After I have
			made further analysis, I may be
			able to adjust the ship's sensors
			to locate and identify the
			anomaly.

					RIKER
				(to Picard)
			The ship is at risk as long as
			we're sitting here. We can always
			continue our investigation from
			outside the nebula.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR          48.

49   CONTINUED: (2)

					PICARD
			Agreed. Ensign McKnight, plot the
			most direct course. Ahead warp
			one.

					MCKNIGHT
				(works instruments)
			Yes, Sir.

					PICARD
			Engage...

	McKnight touches the panel. The ship goes to warp.
	Immediately --

					DATA
				(standing back)
			Captain.

	Everyone turns to see Data's science station and a
	section of the wall DEMATERIALIZE for a moment.

					WORF
				(off instruments)
			Captain! Explosive decompression
			on Deck Thirty-seven!

					RIKER
			Bridge to La Forge... damage
			report.

	The CLAXON SOUNDS, and RED ALERT lights go on.

50   INT. ENGINEERING (OPTICAL)

	Geordi and several N.D. engineers, including THORNE and
	VAN MAYTER, are reading sensors.

					GEORDI
			We're showing damage between decks
			-- we haven't localized it yet.

	A section of the wall DEMATERIALIZES across its middle
	section. A violent BURST OF ENERGY arcs between the
	two ends, EXPLOSIVELY. Thorne is knocked to the
	ground.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FOUR         48A.

50   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI
			Thorne!

	Geordi goes to him, picks him up -- he's alright. The
	conduit REMATERIALIZES.

					GEORDI
			La Forge to Bridge... a cryogenic
			control conduit just blew out on
			us. I almost lost a man...

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/1/91 - ACT FOUR          49.

51   INT. BRIDGE

	Everyone is alarmed.

					PICARD
			Full stop!

					MCKNIGHT
			Yes, Sir --

52   OMITTED

53   INT. BRIDGE - ANOTHER ANGLE

	Everyone is tensed, hoping the full stop will lessen
	the strange dematerializations.

					GEORDI'S COM VOICE
			La Forge to Bridge...

					PICARD
			Yes, Commander?

54   INT. CORRIDOR

	Geordi is hurrying along with two Engineers.

					GEORDI
				(to Comm)
			I think we have some structural
			damage between Decks Thirty-Six
			and Seven. We're checking it out
			now.

					(MORE)

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT FOUR          50.

54   CONTINUED:

					GEORDI (Cont'd)
				(to one engineer)
			Van Mayter, you take access tube
			twenty-three M and look at the
			the Bridge connectors.

	Van Mayter heads off around a corridor as Geordi and
	Thorne continue on.

					GEORDI
			I'll cover the aft section. You
			go---

	A TERRIBLE SCREAM OFF SCREEN. Geordi and Thorne
	suddenly react -- bolting toward the sound, rounding
	the corner...

54A  INCLUDE VAN MAYTER (OPTICAL)

	stuck half-way through the deck, at chest-level. Head,
	upper torso and one arm are all that's visible. He's
	limp, obviously dead.

	OFF Geordi's reaction.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          51.

                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

56   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	At full stop in the midst of the nebula.

57   INT. OBSERVATION LOUNGE (OPTICAL)

	Picard, Riker, Worf and Geordi are sitting at the
	table. The atmosphere is one of grave concern. Data
	is standing next to an Okudagram displayed on the wall
	MONITOR.

					DATA
			During the series of events, I
			was able to measure the W particle
			inference which confirms one of
			my hypotheses.

	Data indicates the Okudagram, which shows "lines" of
	normal space interrupted by pockets or deformations
	of varying sizes and shapes. A graphic depiction of
	the Enterprise is in the midst of it all.

					DATA
			The unusual preponderance of dark
			matter in this nebula is causing
			small gaps in the fabric of normal
			space.

	He points from one "pocket" to another.

					DATA
			As the Enterprise moves through
			the nebula, it collides with these
			deformations.

					PICARD
			Like a carriage bouncing over a
			series of potholes.

					DATA
			That is an apt analogy.

					GEORDI
			So every time we hit one, part
			of the ship momentarily phases
			out of normal space.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          52.

57   CONTINUED:

					DATA
				(acknowledging)
			Or when one of them hits us. My
			readings suggest that the
			deformations themselves are in
			motion.

					RIKER
			We're lucky one of these pockets
			didn't pass through a photon
			torpedo casing... or the
			matter/anti-matter containment
			pods.

					PICARD
			The question now is, how do we
			get out? Mister Data, can you
			reconfigure the sensors to detect
			these anomalies?

					DATA
			Yes, sir, but they can only be
			perceived at extremely close
			range. Even at minimal speed,
			it would be impossible to maneuver
			the Enterprise quickly enough to
			avoid them.

					WORF
			A shuttlecraft is more
			maneuverable...

					RIKER
			He's right.

	Riker moves to the monitor, points to the Enterprise
	and a position far ahead of it.

					RIKER
			If we positioned a shuttle far
			enough in front of the
			Enterprise... it could detect the
			pockets and provide us enough
			time to maneuver out of the way.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          53.

57   CONTINUED: (2)

					GEORDI
			We could give the shuttle control
			of our navigational systems --
			that way, the corresponding
			maneuvers would be virtually
			instantaneous.

					PICARD
			Make it so.

58   INT. BRIDGE

	Picard, Riker, Data, and Worf enter the Bridge from the
	Observation Lounge. Jenna is standing at Tactical.
	Worf approaches her.

					WORF
			You are relieved, Ensign.

	Jenna nods and crosses to the turbolift. As she does,
	she passes Data, now at the right science station,
	working furiously at the instruments. She hesitates,
	gives him a look... but he is oblivious, concentrating
	on his task. She turns and proceeds toward the
	turbolift.

59   OMITTED

60   ON PICARD AND RIKER

	heading across the Bridge. Riker starts to peel off
	toward the turbolift.

					RIKER
			I'll do my pre-flight once I'm
			on board.

					PICARD
			Not this time, Will.

	Riker stops, brought up short.

					RIKER
			Sir?

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          54.

60   CONTINUED:

					PICARD
			I'm going to pilot the shuttle.

					RIKER
			Captain... my duty as First
			Officer is to safeguard the lives
			on this ship. Including yours.
			The Enterprise can't afford to
			lose you, sir. Not in this
			situation.

					PICARD
			I believe our best chance of
			escaping this situation is for
			me to pilot that shuttle.
				(beat)
			This is my ship, Will. I've
			got to do it.

	A beat.

					RIKER
				(acquiescing)
			Captain.

	Picard heads for the turbolift.

60A
thru	OMITTED
60B

60C  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship is in the nebula, the tiny shuttle far off in
	front of it. Both appear to be holding their
	positions.

61   INT. SHUTTLE

	Picard at the console.

					PICARD
			Shuttle three to Enterprise,
			telementry link enabled.

	He touches the controls and the blinkies respond by
	lighting up in a different pattern.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE         54A.

62   OMITTED

63   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	Riker in captain's chair, Data at his post, Worf at
	Tactical, McKnight at CONN.

					DATA
			Ship's computer is accepting
			navigational inputs from the
			shuttle.

64   INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	in front of Picard, where there appears an OKUDAGRAM
	display, similar to the one Data had in the Observation
	Lounge, with "lines" of space displayed out in front of
	the shuttle. It resembles a vector graphic "POV" type
	videogame.

					PICARD
			Forward sensors are on line.
			Ensign McKnight, plot a course
			for the shortest distance out of
			the nebula.

					MCKNIGHT
			Plot laid in, sir. Outer
			perimeter at thirty-two million
			kilometers.

					PICARD
			Point one impulse, Number One.

64A  INT. MAIN BRIDGE

					RIKER
			Acknowledged, Captain. We're
			right behind you.
				(to Comm)
			Riker to O'Brien, lock on to the
			Captain's communicator. I want
			to be able to pull him out of
			there if I have to.

					O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
			Aye, sir.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          55.

65   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE & SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	The shuttle in f.g., Enterprise behind it in the
	nebula. As the shuttlecraft slowly moves forward, the
	Enterprise follows.

									INTERCUT AS NEEDED:

66   INT. SHUTTLE

	Picard working controls, watching the monitor.

67   INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	the lines in space suddenly display a distorting
	"pocket" similar in appearance to those on Data's obs
	lounge Okudagram. It is heading right toward him.

					PICARD
			Changing course... new heading
			two-nine-nine mark zero-two-nine.

	We see from the movement of the gassy whirls of the
	nebula that the shuttle has banked into a turn that
	is left and up. The monitor moves accordingly and the
	"pocket" disappears from the screen.

68   OMITTED

69   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

					DATA
			Main coupling is matching
			navigational inputs, Captain.

					MCKNIGHT
			New heading confirmed.

					PICARD
			I missed it by less than a
			thousand meters, Enterprise...
			Advise your status...

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          56.

69   CONTINUED:

					WORF
				(checking his panel)
			Sensors indicate the deformation
			passing five hundred meters off
			the starboard bow. We're
			clear...

					RIKER
			One down, Captain...

	There is Bridge-wide release of tension.

					PICARD
			Resuming previous course.

					MCKNIGHT
			Confirmed. Outer perimeter now
			at thirty-point-one million
			kilometers.

	Riker's eyes sweep the Bridge. There's still a long
	way to go.

70
thru	OMITTED
72

73   INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	Picard's eyes are glued on the monitor. Two pockets
	appear on the screen, a small one and a larger one.

					PICARD
			Changing course... heading zero
			seven three, mark --
			two-eight-eight...

	The shuttle veers right and down. The pockets
	disappear from the screen. But suddenly, four more
	pockets loom on the monitor -- like the next level in
	a Nintendo game.

					PICARD
			New heading... two-eight-four
			mark zero...

	The shuttle swerves hard to the left.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE         56A.

74
thru	OMITTED
74C

75   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	There is a jolt to the Bridge as the Enterprise makes
	the two corrections in close order.

76   INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	Three of the potholes appear on screen... There's not
	a minute for Picard to breathe. The potholes keep
	coming... big ones moving slowly, little ones that zip
	like hummingbirds. But this time there's a JOLT to the
	shuttle...

76A  EXT. SPACE - SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	There's an EFFECT on part of the shuttle... the
	thruster assembly flares, then hangs, damaged, on the
	shuttle.

77   INT. SHUTTLE - INCLUDE MONITOR (OPTICAL)

	as the potholes keep coming... Picard tapping
	instructions... but...

					PICARD
			Enterprise... I'm losing
			maneuverability...

									CONTINUE INTERCUT:

77A  INT. ENGINEERING

					GEORDI
			Sensors indicate damage to the
			shuttle's starboard impulse
			nacelle, Captain.

					PICARD
			I'm reading fluctuations in the
			thermal control sub-system...

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          57.

78   INT. BRIDGE

					RIKER
			Captain, I'm bringing you back.

					PICARD
			Belay that, Number One! I'm
			re-routing the secondary deuterium
			supply... switching to manual
			controls.

					DATA
			Transceiver signal is down
			forty-two percent. Navigational
			inputs are not registering.

					RIKER
				(what next?)
			Captain, we've lost the link.

					PICARD
			You'll have to make course changes
			manually until we re-establish
			the connection.

					RIKER
			Understood. Get us back on line,
			Data. Geordi, try boosting the
			power to the L-U band. And
			increase the distance between the
			Enterprise and the shuttle. We're
			going to need some more room to
			make manual adjustments.

					GEORDI
			Aye, sir.

					RIKER
			How far do we have to go?

					MCKNIGHT
			Sixteen million kilometers.

	Riker's face shows his grave concern that they're not
	going to make it that far.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE         57A.

79   INT. SHUTTLE

	Where Picard is battling a bucking shuttle. Now he
	becomes a concert pianist... changing course to escape
	the oncoming potholes with one hand... working to
	correct the engine problem with the other.

					PICARD
			New heading... two-nine-nine mark
			one eight...

					MCKNIGHT
				(working panels)
			Yes, sir... I've got it... course
			corrected.

	Potholes swim at Picard; the shuttle dips and swerves
	for a tense moment. There's only time for --

					PICARD
			Enterprise -- hard starboard!

					MCKNIGHT
			Aye, sir --

79A  INT. BRIDGE

					WORF
			Deformation impact on Deck
			Fifteen... science section...

					RIKER
			Damage?

					WORF
			Report coming in, sir... minimal
			damage.

					PICARD
			Hold steady... I've completed the
			re-routing sequence... do you read
			my navigational inputs?

					RIKER
			Data, do we have the telemetry
			link back?

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          58.

79A  CONTINUED:

					DATA
			I have increased sensitivity in
			the L-U band... it should be
			sufficient.

					RIKER
			Captain, let's try it.

79B  INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	Half a dozen pockets swarm toward the shuttle on the
	monitor. Picard barely has time to respond.

					PICARD
			New heading. Two-seven-five mark
			three nine!

					DATA
			Confirmed... the link has been
			re-established.

					MCKNIGHT
			Nine-point-four million kilometers
			to the perimeter.

79C  EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE & SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	continue their strange tandem dance through the nebula.

80   INT. BRIDGE

					PICARD
			Mister La Forge, I am still having
			difficulty controlling the
			shuttlecraft.

80A  INT. ENGINEERING

					GEORDI
			Yes, sir, your krellide storage
			cells are losing their charge.
			Maintaining manual control is
			gonna get increasingly harder...

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT THREE         58A.

81   INT. SHUTTLE

	The shuttle is bucking, barely under control.

					PICARD
			Estimated distance to the nebula's
			perimeter?

					DATA
			Four-point-seven million
			kilometers, sir.

					PICARD
			Is there a way to transfer the
			microfusion thrusters so I can
			get a power boost?

					DATA
			Possibly. If you augment the
			thruster sequencing so that the
			inertial dampening fields --

	But as he's speaking a pothole appears on the
	monitor... then looms large... larger... this is the
	Mother Of All Potholes. Picard responds --

					PICARD
			Bearing -- two-seven... make that
			two-eight-five, mark
			two-five-five!

	The shuttle banks hard left and plunges down at a steep
	angle... then whirls out of control.

82   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	as the Bridge begins to jolt in response to the
	shuttle.

					DATA
			Commander, the shuttle is out of
			control. Navigational link is
			severed.

					RIKER
				(to Com)
			Mister O'Brien -- do you have the
			Captain's signal?

82A  INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM

					O'BRIEN
			I'm having trouble locking on,
			sir.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          59.

82B  INT. BRIDGE

					DATA
			Sir, the shuttle's inertial
			dampeners have failed. It is
			breaking up.

83   INT. SHUTTLE (OPTICAL)

	The craft is spinning (SHAKING AS THE GASSY WHIRLS BLUR
	BY THE WINDOW). Picard can't even move from the g
	force.

					PICARD
				(to Com)
			Now would be a good time, Mister
			O'Brien...

83A
thru	OMITTED
86

87   INT. MAIN BRIDGE - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	Riker and the others react to a tiny explosion far out
	in front of the ship -- it's the shuttle.

					RIKER
			O'Brien -- did we get him?

87A  INT. TRANSPORTER ROOM (OPTICAL)

	As Picard MATERIALIZES, heads for the door.

					O'BRIEN
			Aye, sir, we got him.

					PICARD
			I'm a little dizzy, Number One...
			but none the worse... on my way...

87B  INT. BRIDGE

					RIKER
				(relieved)
			Acknowledged, sir.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          60.

87B  CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Commander, we are nearing the
			perimeter -- one million
			kilometers away.

					RIKER
			All right, let's make a run for
			it.

	A tense moment -- will there be more potholes?

88   EXT. SPACE - ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	As the great ship plows toward the edge of the
	nebula... and then shoots out into normal space.

89   INT. MAIN BRIDGE

	as Picard emerges from the turbolift.

					RIKER
			We're clear of the nebula, sir.

	Picard looks out at the starfield... relieved to see
	normal space again. He moves toward his chair.

					PICARD
			Ensign, plot a course for Starbase
			Two-Sixty. Warp two. Engage.

90   OMITTED

91   EXT. SPACE - THE ENTERPRISE (OPTICAL)

	The ship at warp in normal space.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE         60A.

92   INT. DATA'S QUARTERS

	Data is preparing two place settings for an intimate
	dinner. His cat passes by. The door CHIMES.

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT FIVE          61.

92   CONTINUED:

					DATA
			Enter.

	The door opens and Jenna ENTERS the room, crosses
	toward Data.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Hello.

	Jenna gives him a peck on the cheek. Her smile is a
	little weak.

					JENNA
			Hi.

	She notices several potted plants and a couple of
	antique Japanese style hanging lanterns.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			The place looks great.

					DATA
			Thank you. It is much less
			Spartan, is it not?

					JENNA
			Much less... It looks... great...
			it really does... it looks great.

					DATA
			Jenna, you are repeating yourself.
			I have found this to be indicative
			of mental distraction. Is that
			a correct assumption in this
			instance?

					JENNA
			I'm afraid it is.

	Data moves toward the replicator.

					DATA
			Then perhaps we should begin our
			meal. Among humans, a low serum
			glucose level is often responsible
			for --

					JENNA
				(interrupting)
			-- Data.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          62.

92   CONTINUED: (2)

	Data pauses.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			Let's talk... first.

	She indicates his chair at the table. Data comes back,
	sits down. She sits opposite him.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			I'm not sure how to begin.

					DATA
			What is the subject?

					JENNA
			You and me. Our relationship.

					DATA
			Yes?

					JENNA
				(deep breath)
			Data, sometimes people blindly
			make the same mistake again and
			again. Until it finally happens
			in a way so obvious and so
			blatant, that they can no longer
			deny what they've been doing.

					DATA
			Are you currently experiencing
			this phenomenon?

					JENNA
			I didn't see it until today. I
			got out of a relationship with
			an unemotional man. And went
			right back into another with a
			man who is absolutely incapable
			of emotion.

					DATA
			There does appear to be a
			recurring motif.

					JENNA
			You were so kind and attentive.
			I thought maybe that would be
			enough.

          STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 3/27/91 - ACT FIVE          63.

92   CONTINUED: (3)

					DATA
			It is not?

					JENNA
			No, it's not. Because as close
			as we are, I don't really matter
			to you. Not really. Nothing I
			could do or say will ever make
			you happy, or hurt you, or touch
			you in any way.

					DATA
			That is... a valid projection.

	Data thinks for a moment.

					DATA
				(continuing)
			It is apparent that my reach has
			exceeded my grasp in this
			particular area. I am perhaps
			not nearly so human as I aspire
			to become...

	A beat.

					DATA
				(continuing, pleasantly)
			If you are ready to eat, I will
			bring our meal.

	Data stands. Jenna looks at him sadly for a beat --
	this is just what she was talking about.

					JENNA
			No. That's alright.

	She stands.

					JENNA
				(continuing)
			I'd better go, Data.

					DATA
			If you wish.

	Jenna reaches over and kisses him on the cheek. Starts
	to turn toward the door.

           STAR TREK: "In Theory" - REV. 4/2/91 - ACT FIVE          64.

92   CONTINUED: (4)

					DATA
				(continuing)
			Jenna. Are we no longer... a
			couple?

	Her eyes suddenly fill with tears.

					JENNA
			No... we're not.

					DATA
			Then I will delete the
			appropriate program.

					JENNA
				(quickly toward the
				 door)
			I'll see you later...

	She goes out the door -- it closes behind her. Data
	watches for a moment. The cat suddenly jumps up on his
	lap.

					DATA
			Hello, Spot.

	He reaches down to pet it, and the animal nuzzles up to
	his hand.

	OFF Data's face...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         

                            THE END                             































