CHARLIE. The point is the men.
TABEZ. Exactly. I'll have no tampering with the men Charlie, no putting ideas above their station into their heads.
CHARLIE. It's fifty years too late to talk like that. As a matter of fact, I'm going to address a meeting of the men to-night. And I shall take their part. They know it. I've the gifts of the mob orator. (Chuckle from Jabez.) God knows it's a sorry gift to boast about, but it will serve my turn. I can sway a crowd. I've done it time and again in debates.
JABEZ. (Pause, then) Where is this meeting? (Crosses to desk, sitting to face audience.)
CHARLIE. The Assembly Hall. I am as certain as I stand here that I can work my will upon them. I shall advise a strike, and strike they shall unless——
JABEZ. Oh, you've got your price then? (Sneeringly.)
CHARLIE. Yes. It's cowardly, but I have. It's against my convictions, but, as you say, I have my price.
JABEZ. What is it?
CHARLIE. Freedom of action. (Crosing towards Jabez.) Laboratory work and no other and release from the mockery of an engagement with Rosie. (Enter John, l.)
JABEZ. Hullo, John. Good morning. Glad you called. (Charlie goes to fireplace.)