“We’ll waste a lot more before we’ve done,” said the Major. “The whole thing’s waste of time. There’ll never be a statue in Ballymoy either to General John Regan or to anyone else.”
Dr. O’Grady had drawn a bundle of papers from his pocket and laid them on the table before him.
“Our first business, gentlemen,” he said, “is to settle about the illuminated address which Mrs. Ford has kindly consented to present to the Lord-Lieutenant.”
Thady Gallagher glared at Dr. O’Grady savagely. He did not like being interrupted in the middle of a speech.
“Order, gentlemen, order,” said Father McCor-mack, nervously tapping the table with his pencil.
“With regard to the illuminated address,” said Doyle, “I’m of opinion that the carrying out of it should be given into the hands of a Dublin firm. It’s our duty to support Irish manufacture. There’s too much money sent over to England that might be far better kept at home. You’ll agree with me there, Thady.”
“What are you going to say in the address?” said the Major.
“Oh, the usual things,” said Dr. O’Grady. “I don’t think we need go into that in detail. All addresses are pretty much the same.”
“I won’t sign my name to anything political,” said the Major.
“I’m with you there,” said Father McCormack. “It’s one of the curses of this country the way politics are dragged into business.”