Scene 5 & 6

Stanley asks Blanche if she knows a fellow named Shaw. This Shaw is an acquaintance of Stanley's, and he claims that he knew a loose woman who used to keep rooms at a hotel called the Flamingo in Laurel. Blanche says she knows of the Flamingo by reputation and would not set foot in it, but the accusation has been made. Stanley leaves.

In a panic, Blanche asks Stella what she has heard regarding her reputation. Blanche admits that she misbehaved somewhat after the loss of Belle Reve. We learn Blanche is trying to cover her past.