edward. He thinks he has the whip hand and he means to use it. Also the Vicar has been told . . who has told his wife. She knows how not to keep a secret. The smash has come at last.
alice. So you're glad?
edward. Thankful. My conscience is clear. I've done my best. [then as usual with him, his fervour collapses.] And oh, Alice . . has it been worth doing?
alice. [encouragingly.] Half a dozen people pulled out of the fire.
edward. If only that isn't found out! I've bungled this job, Alice. I feared all along I should. It was work for a strong man . . not for me.
alice. Work for a patient man.
edward. You use kind words. But I've never shirked the truth about myself. My father said mine was a weak nature. He knew.
alice. You have a religious nature.
edward. [surprised.] Oh no!