Old Farmer. Ha, ha! That's right. They are coming in now. Now, Raftery; isn't it generous and open-handed and liberal this country is? Isn't it better than the County Mayo?
Blind Man.
I'd say all Galway was rich land,
If I'd your shillings in my hand.
(Holds out his plate to them.)
Old Farmer (laughing). Now, neighbours, down with it! My conscience! Raftery knows how to get hold of the money.
A Man of Them. Maisead, he doesn't own much riches; and there is pride on us all to see him in this country. (Puts money in the plate, and all the others do the same. A lean old man comes in.)
Martin (to Mary). That is John the Miser, or Seagan na Stucaire, as they call him. That is the man that is hardest in this country. He never gave a penny to any person since he was born.
Miser. God save all here! Oh, is that Raftery? Ho, ho! God save you, Raftery, and a hundred thousand welcomes before you to this country. There is pride on us all to see you. There is gladness on the whole country, you to be here in our midst. If you will believe me, neighbours, I saw with my own eyes the bush Raftery put his curse on; and as sure as I'm living, it was withered away. There is nothing of it but a couple of old twigs now.
Blind Man.
I've heard a voice like his before,
And liked some little voice the more;
I'd sooner have, if I'd my choice,
A big heart and a small voice.