cantelupe. [With finesse.] I hope not.

trebell. [A little dangerously.] And I have no intention of being made the scapegoat of a wrecked Tory compromise with the Nonconformists.

cantelupe. [Calmly ignoring the suggestion.] So far as I am concerned I meet the Nonconformists on their own ground . . that Religion had better be free from all compromise with the State.

trebell. Quite so . . if you're set free you'll look after yourselves. My discovery must be what to do with the men who think more of the state than their Church . . the majority of parsons, don't you think? . . if the question's really put and they can be made to understand it.

cantelupe. [With sincere disdain.] There are more profitable professions.

trebell. And less. Will you allow me that it is statecraft to make a profession profitable?

cantelupe picks up his papers, avoiding theoretical discussion.

cantelupe. Well now . . will you explain to me this project for endowing Education with your surplus?

trebell. Putting Appropriation, the Buildings and the Representation question on one side for the moment?

cantelupe. Candidly, I have yet to master your figures . . .