DAN (reading slowly): "… Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous…. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous … But the way of the ungodly … shall perish …"

A pause. He shuts the Bible loudly, and lays it on the table. MRS. BRAMSON can hardly keep awake.

That's the end.

MRS. BRAMSON: Is it?… Ah, well, it's been a long day——

DAN: Are you quite comfortable?

MRS. BRAMSON: A bit achy. Glad to get to bed. Hope that woman's put my bottle in all right. Bet she hasn't——

DAN: Sure you're comfortable? Wouldn't you like a cushion back of your head?

MRS. BRAMSON: No, dear, just wheel me——

DAN (rising): I think you'll be more comfortable with a cushion. (Rising, humming) "I'm a pretty little feller, everybody knows … dunno what to call me …"

He goes deliberately across, humming, and picks up a large black cushion from the sofa. His hands close on the cushion, and he stands silent a moment. He moves slowly back to the other side of her; he stands looking at her, his back three-quarters to the audience and his face hidden: he is holding the cushion in both hands.