MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. As for the Colonel, who spent half his time with Mr. Grimm, what is his reward? A watch-fob! [Prophetically.] Henry, mark my words—this will be the end of you. It's only a question of a few weeks. One of these new football playing ministers, just out of college, will take your place. It's not what you preach now that counts; it's what you coax out of the rich parishioners' pockets.
REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. [In a low voice.] Mrs. Batholommey!
MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. Religion doesn't stand where it did, Henry—there's no denying that. There was a time when people had to go to church—they weren't decent if they didn't. Now you have to wheedle 'em in. The church needs funds in these days when a college professor is openly saying that— [Her voice breaks.] the Star of Bethlehem was a comet. [Weeps.
REV. MR. BATHOLOMMEY. Control yourself. I must insist upon it, Mrs.
Batholommey.
MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [Breaking down—almost breathlessly.] Oh! If I said all the things I feel like saying about Peter Grimm—well—I shouldn't be fit to be a clergyman's wife. Not to leave his dear friends a—
COLONEL LAWTON. He wasn't liberal; but, for God's sake, madam, pull yourself together and think what he ought to have done for me!—I've listened to his plans for twenty years. I've virtually given up my business for him, and what have I got out of it? Not a button! Not a button! A bible. Still I'm not complaining. Hang that chimney, Frederik, it's smoking. [COLONEL LAWTON stirs the fire—a log falls out and the flame goes down. The room has gradually grown darker as the night approaches.
MRS. BATHOLOMMEY. [Turning on COLONEL LAWTON.] Oh, you've feathered your nest, Colonel! You're a rich man.
COLONEL LAWTON. [Enraged, raising his voice.] What? I never came here that you weren't begging.
FREDERIK. [Virtuously—laying down the paper.] Well, I'm disgusted! When I think how much more I should have if he hadn't continually doled out money to every one of you!
COLONEL LAWTON. What?