Chapter II: Part 2

Never no completer! We're workin' the black list and, if a man opens his mouth too wide at a meetin', somebody--he don't know who--tips the gover'ment that he's a "red." We got 'em so they ain't sure of their own brothers. We're postin' bills, in seven languages, saying: "Why should workmen mistrust the company? This is the land of opportunity! America is calling you--GO BACK TO WORK!" The boss has a scheme now to start a riot between the Poles and the Wops! And you know the end o' that! Troops, and scabs, and machine guns! What stopped it? One gent that don't know nothin' about harmony, or co-operation, or nothin'--except hangin' around after a skirt! If you got to descend to bribery now, don't blame me! Blame Gilchrist!

BENFIELD

[_Rises; striking the table with his open hand_]: He's absolutely right!

JERRY

[_Rises_]: Of course, he's right! Wha'd'ya expect of a man kicked out of his church for Bolshevism?

BENFIELD

He ought to be brought back right now!

GOODKIND

He's coming back--

[_Servant enters R._]

Yes; what is it?

SERVANT

Two men to see Mr. Stedtman.

BENFIELD

Good!

GOODKIND

Bring them in.

[_Servant exits_]

STEDTMAN

Now look--don't try nothin' before Umanski! Just give us an excuse to vote _right_, and then we'll go out, and get rid of him, and I'll slip back with Hennig! Now then--[_His sharp ears have heard footsteps off R. He strikes a pose_] It's very good of you gentlemen to see us! I was goin' to meet my friends outside--[_The Servant ushers in_ UMANSKI _and_ JOE HENNIG, _and retires_]--but you been so kind and agreeable--Hello, Joe!

JOE

Hello, Max!

UMANSKI

You said you be on sidewalk.

STEDTMAN

I just really got in myself. This is Mr. Goodkind. He's the President. And a couple o' Directors. Well, now we can get down to business!

[_He sits._ UMANSKI _stares in amazement at his temerity_. UMANSKI _is a giant Pole or Russian. Whatever flesh he ever had has been starved off; he is all bone and brawn. In his face is something strangely like poetry ... something born of silence and suffering. He is in his best, which does not obliterate the picture of the man in working clothes, his sleeves rolled up over his muscular arms. Hennig is a stocky man of 45--a "grouser." His tone has none of the courage, the dignity, the independence of_ UMANSKI'S; _he blusters, emptily, an echo, without much to say, and one guesses he might be made to bluster either way. There is a pause._]

GOODKIND

Smoke? [_He presents the humidor to_ HENNIG, _and_ STEDTMAN, _rising, reaches out and helps himself_. GOODKIND _goes on to_ UMANSKI, _who doesn't unfold his arms; doesn't even appear to see the box_. GOODKIND _returns, and sets it lower right end of table_.]

JOE

[_Coming down R. of_ GOODKIND]: I guess you know all about our grievances.

GOODKIND

I didn't know you had any.

JOE

You didn't know we had any----

BENFIELD

Ah, you fellows are never satisfied!

GOODKIND

You're getting plenty for what you do! What are you complaining about? You've left good jobs to follow a lot of idle, discontented agitators! We've got to win this fight on principle! The work's there! I pay what I can get men for, and not a cent more! Take it or leave it!

JOE

We got to hang together to get anything!

GOODKIND

You're hanging, and what have you got?

[_The piano music in the next room, which ceased during the
scene with_ STEDTMAN, _is succeeded now by the low
tones of a violin_. UMANSKI _speaks, in a voice as
unemotional as its owner is stolid_.]

UMANSKI

I work twelve hours--every day ... thirty years ... got nothing.

BENFIELD

Why should you have? An untrained man--

JERRY

You don't even know English!

UMANSKI

How I gonna learn English--work twelve hours a day?

JERRY

Nobody asked you to take the job! Nobody asked you to come over here! You're not an American!

UMANSKI

I was American.

JERRY

[_Sneers_]: When?

UMANSKI

When I fight ... in the war. [_A short pause._]

JERRY

[_Turning to_ GOODKIND]: We're not getting anywhere. We've been over this a dozen times!

GOODKIND

What do you want?

UMANSKI

I wanna chance to learn! I wanna chance to live! I wanna see ... sun!

JERRY

Wha'd'ya mean--_son_? [_Together_]

GOODKIND

_Your_ son? [_Together_]

UMANSKI

God's sun. I never see him. Go to mines--him not up. Work in mines--him not see. Go home--him gone. Got baby five years ago. Never see _him_. Go to mines ... _him_, not up. Come back--_him_ asleep. Go home one day--_him_ gone.

GOODKIND

Dead?

UMANSKI

My wife say: "Good! Not such many to feed!"

JERRY

When you worked you had enough to eat, didn't you?

UMANSKI

Yes. Work twelve hours a day and got enough to eat--so can work some more. Always work. Get up--work--come back--sleep--get up--work. Never got time to talk to wife--never got time to talk to nobody--never got nowhere. Never save nothing.

JOE

[_Whining_]: It ain't fair! [JERRY _takes out his cigarette case_.]

UMANSKI

That little box--what you pay for him? [_Jerry turns front, not deigning to answer_] Ah, I know; gold. You pay more for him than I got from swing pick thirty years. Me and six families--we live in one house you own. We got one room upstairs; two down cellar. Sleep there. Eat--cook--wash upstairs. See nothing but brick yard, and clothes hang up to dry. Wife--she carry water from yard. Me--I carry potato peeling out front. Him rot. If I don't like that, I quit--and starve!

JERRY

You want to live on Fifth Avenue!

BENFIELD

And _then_ you'd find something to kick about!

UMANSKI

If I don't like other mans will. Other mans take my job. I got little girl twenty years old. Awful nice little girl. Got gold hair. Got blue eyes. Her take sick. She sorry she's sick. She wanna go church. She ask me: "Pop, buy me new dress for church. Buy me pretty _pink_ dress." Where I get him? We hire doctor once, and he say: "Air--sunshine--milk--eggs!" Where I get air--sunshine--milk--eggs? Got no job. My little girl, she cough, and cough, and one night she die. I tell you we got right to quit! We got right to hang together! We got right to fight--to live--and, by God, we gonna fight--we gonna live--_we gonna_--_BY GOD!_

[_The music stops. In the same short instant, there is a
patter of applause; more music--lively this time--and,
bursting into the room from L._, DILLY _runs into_
UMANSKI. She _has gold hair_; she _has blue eyes;
and what is more_, she _has a new dress. It is a "pretty
pink dress," too, and its owner wears jewels worth the
ransom of a dozen Umanskis._]

DILLY

[_As she enters_]: Now, look here, Jerry; you're not going to--Oh! I'm sorry! [UMANSKI _looks at her; then covers his face, and, with a great sob, drops into a chair R. C._ STEDTMAN _puts his arm about the man's shoulders_. GOODKIND, _C., stares at him sympathetically_.]

JERRY

You'll have to wait, Dilly.

GOODKIND

Ask the ladies to stay in the drawing room. We'll join them in a few minutes.

DILLY

Yes.... Certainly.... I'm SO sorry!

[_She exits. A pause._ STEDTMAN, _one arm about_ UMANSKI,
_uses the other to signal_ GOODKIND _to go ahead_. GOODKIND
_ignores him_.]

GOODKIND

I think we'd better let this go for tonight.

UMANSKI

[_Rising_]: Oh, no! Me--I'm all right! Excuse!

GOODKIND

You're a little upset, and I have guests. Besides, Gilchrist will be here in half an hour, and I want to talk to him before I say anything definite. Suppose we all meet here tomorrow at noon.

JOE

[_Who has turned down angrily at mention of the name_]: Not Gilchrist!

GOODKIND

No; just we six ... and, maybe, one or two more of our directors.

STEDTMAN

All right!

UMANSKI

I wanna know what we gonna do--_tonight_!

GOODKIND

We're going to get together. You fellows have got the wrong idea. We're not tyrants, or monsters. We're Christians, and we want to act like Christians. Only ... we've got to live, too. We've got to have the things we're used to, just as you have. But I think I can promise, if the strike's called off, you men will be kept, and put back just where you were.... Ring the bell, Jerry.

[JERRY _does so. A pause._]

BENFIELD

I guess you don't want me any more.

GOODKIND

No.

BENFIELD

Thanks.

[_Exits L. A pause._]

GOODKIND

[_To_ HENNIG. _Making conversation_]: You live in Black River?

JOE

Yes.

GOODKIND

Married?

JOE

You betcha! Prettiest girl in West Virginia! We only been married a year. I got her in the five-and-ten-cent store.... I mean, that's where she was working. She's at her sister's now ... up to Pittsburg. Left the day before I was elected to come here. [_Proudly_] I sent her a telegram!

GOODKIND

You don't say so! [_To_ JERRY] Anything the matter with that bell?

JERRY

The man's busy, I suppose. I'll show them out.

GOODKIND

If you will.... Well, good-night!

[_He shakes hands with_ HENNIG, _and with_ STEDTMAN, _but,
when he comes to_ UMANSKI, _that giant is immobile. His
slow mind has been thinking out the earlier declaration._]

UMANSKI

What about this here twelve-hour day?

GOODKIND

We'll consider that after the strike's called off.

UMANSKI

And the twenty-four-hour shift?

GOODKIND

We'll consider that, too. Meanwhile--you go back just where you were!

UMANSKI

Then what good we gain by strike?

GOODKIND

Nothing's ever gained by quarreling. You'll find that out some day.

UMANSKI

Some day something be gain! Some day we gonna win! _This_--he don't go on always! _You_ see!

JERRY

[_Insolently_]: Are you ready?

UMANSKI

[_As_ HENNIG _slips out R._, UMANSKI _looks at_ JERRY _with contempt_.] _You_ see! [_Exits R._]

STEDTMAN

[_Significantly,--in a loud whisper_]: We'll be back later. [_He exits R._]

JERRY

Swine!

[_He exits R._ GOODKIND, _obviously worried by the
interview, goes to the table, and rights the topmost paper.
Looks at it. Sits, and examines other papers. The_ SERVANT
_enters R._]

SERVANT

Did you ring, sir?

GOODKIND

Half an hour ago.

SERVANT

[_Indicating a box_]: I was signing for this. [GOODKIND, _writing, doesn't look up_.] Can I do anything for you, sir?

GOODKIND

Yes.... Get me a drink.

[_The_ SERVANT _hesitates_. GOODKIND _takes key from pocket
and gives it to him. The_ SERVANT _unlocks a cellarette,
up R., takes out decanter and glasses, relocks the
cellarette, comes down L. of table, sets down the tray, and
returns the key._]

Thanks. [_The_ SERVANT _starts to exit L._] And, Riggs! [_The_ SERVANT _stops up L. C. Enter_ CLARE _L._] If Mr. Stedtman comes back tonight ... with one of the other men ... I'll see them in here.

SERVANT

Very good, sir. [_To_ CLARE]: This package just came for you, Madam. [_He gives her the box, and exits L. A pause._]

GOODKIND

Everybody gone?

CLARE

They're all down in the billiard room. We wanted to make up a couple of tables at bridge, but, with the men in here ... as usual.... Where's Jerry?

GOODKIND

I don't know.

CLARE

I've seen him just ten minutes this week.

GOODKIND

He's only been back three hours.

CLARE

Well ... I wish he wouldn't break up my dinner parties.

GOODKIND

[_Pushes back papers_]: What have you got there?

CLARE

[_Looking at the box_]: Another ... substitute....

GOODKIND

Substitute, for what?

CLARE

[_As she opens it_]: For my husband's time ... and love ... and companionship. [_Holds up a sable scarf_] Sables. [_She gives it to_ GOODKIND.]

GOODKIND

[_Looking at it with admiration_]: Mm! You don't seem much surprised.

CLARE

No.... Whenever Jerry's been away longer than usual, or done something he's a little ashamed of, there's a box from Cartier or Revillon.

GOODKIND

Must have been a whopper this time!

CLARE

[_Seriously. Wondering_]: Yes. [_She takes the scarf._]

GOODKIND

Pretty generous husband ... if you ask _me_!

CLARE

Yes. [_She puts the scarf away._]

GOODKIND

Upon my word, I don't know what you women want!... A man works his heart and soul out to get you things, and still you're not satisfied!

CLARE

Maybe we'd like a little "heart and soul."

GOODKIND

Heart and soul, and what a man trades 'em for! You want your husband to succeed, and give all his attention to you! You want him to have plenty of money, and plenty of time! You're willing to take everything, but you're not willing to pay for it!

CLARE

I suppose everybody _must_ pay.

GOODKIND

Surest thing you know! You women are all alike. My poor wife--_she_ had everything, and I used to catch her crying in a corner. We never seemed to understand each other ... after we got _this_. She was a good wife, too, but the best of you never seem to want what you have.... Sometimes I think we don't any of us really want what we struggle so hard to get. Sometimes I think we're all wrong! [_He looks at his watch, and rises._] Well, I guess I'll go downstairs!

CLARE

I wish you would.

GOODKIND

[_Goes to her_]: You're not crying? [_She nods and looks up_] My God! Can you beat it?

CLARE

I'll be down in a minute.

GOODKIND

Tell Riggs--will you?--if any one comes, I'll be ... talking to Jerry. [_He puts his hand on her shoulder_] And ... buck up! There are people worse off than we are ... and it's a great life if you don't weaken!

[_He exits L._ CLARE _goes C. She puts the box,
with its contents, on the table, dries her eyes, and is
powdering her nose when_ DANIEL GILCHRIST _opens
the door R. He is in business clothes, and starts to retire
when he sees_ CLARE. _He would a little rather
avoid the interview._]

CLARE

Come in! I'm just powdering my nose. Does that offend your reverence?

DANIEL

On the contrary; I agree with the man who said, "Put your trust in God, and keep your powder dry." [_They laugh._]

CLARE

When did you get in?

DANIEL

Half an hour ago.

CLARE

Had dinner?

DANIEL

On the train. I was starved. Thank goodness, they don't charge for dinner by the mile!... Riggs said your father-in-law was in here.

CLARE

He'll be up in a moment ... won't you sit down? We haven't had five minutes together since----

DANIEL

[_Hesitates about remaining._]

CLARE

I understand you're very happy in your new ... profession.

DANIEL

[_Sits._] Yes.

CLARE

You've got ... everything ... you want?

DANIEL

No, I haven't everything I want, but I'm happy.

CLARE

My father-in-law says if you settle this strike you're to be--but that's a business secret. [_A pause_] I suppose I might tell you. [_A pause_] He says it'll make you a big man in the company ... with a tremendous salary.... You mustn't give it away!

DANIEL

The secret?

CLARE

The salary ... I suppose you've got over that.... So ... you don't really seem to have lost anything by giving up your church.

DANIEL

No. Queer as it seems, sometimes I think I've gained ... in opportunity.

CLARE

[_Chiefly to herself_]: Perhaps one _might_ have eaten one's cake and had it, too.

DANIEL

Clare!

CLARE

You frightened me so that night, with the bugaboo of poverty. Don't you think there might have been a compromise? Something half way?

DANIEL

Why open wounds that are beginning to heal?

CLARE

Yours seem quite healed.

DANIEL

And you have everything _you_ want?

CLARE

Yes.

DANIEL

You see ... I _was_ selfish ... to ask you to give up the things that count so much with you for those that count with me.... Afterward, when I knew you were to be married ... I was afraid for you ... and I was wrong again. [_He rises_] You're happy ... and I'm honestly glad!

CLARE

Are you ... honestly ... happy?

DANIEL

Honestly.

CLARE

In just helping others?

DANIEL

In just helping others.

CLARE

I don't understand that.

DANIEL

You will ... some day.

[JERRY _enters R. He has added two or three brandies to
a generous allowance at dinner, and though not drunk, is
sullen and quarrelsome. The more so at finding_ DANIEL
_with_ CLARE].

JERRY

Hello, Gilchrist! In early, aren't you? [_Crosses._] I didn't mean to interrupt a tête-à-tête!

CLARE

You're not interrupting.

JERRY

Where's father?

CLARE

I thought he was with you.

JERRY

I stopped for refreshments.

CLARE

I see you did.

JERRY

[_Laughs and turns to_ DANIEL]: We've been having a genial evening with your delegation. That's why my wife's sore.

CLARE

I'm not "sore." I've been a little lonely.

JERRY

You don't look it!... I couldn't help going to Black River! I didn't go for pleasure ... did I, Gilchrist?

DANIEL

No. There was work, and plenty of it. I was sorry you had to leave when you did.

CLARE

Why, Jerry didn't leave much before you, did he?

JERRY

Just a few----

DANIEL

[_At the same time_]: Only twenty-four hours.... He wanted to get back to you.

CLARE

But ... he's just _got_ back.... Where have you been, Jerry?

JERRY

Attending to business ... _of course_!

CLARE

Of course. [_She takes the scarf from the box on the table_] Good night, Dan.

DANIEL

[_Cheerily_]: Good night! [_She starts to door L._].

JERRY

Oh ... you _got_ the furs!

CLARE

Yes ... thank you.

JERRY

Don't mention it!

CLARE

I'm very grateful ... but ...

JERRY

But what?

CLARE

Never mind. We'll talk about it some other time.

JERRY

We'll talk about it _now_!

DANIEL

I'll go. [_Starts R._].

JERRY

No, you won't! You made a crack about my leaving twenty-four hours before you did! How do you know when I left? [_To_ CLARE] If that's what you're sore about, for heaven's sake, drop it! I'm sorry you've been alone, and I've sent you a handsome gift as an apology!

CLARE

I don't want it. [_She lays down the scarf._] I don't want to be paid for shutting my eyes to any insulting thing you choose to do!

JERRY

And I don't propose to be made a blackguard before strangers!

CLARE

Dan isn't a stranger. And I don't want to make you a blackguard. Only ... since you've insisted on the truth.... Dan, when _did_ my husband leave Black River?

DANIEL

I haven't seen him since Thursday.

JERRY

_There_ you have it! He hasn't _seen_ me since Thursday! Does it occur to you that may have been because _he_ wasn't in Black River?

CLARE

No.

DANIEL

As a matter of fact, I wasn't.

JERRY

Oh!... Where were you?

DANIEL

At the mines.

CLARE

Is that the truth?

JERRY

Of course it's the truth! And, if it wasn't, I don't see that you've any right to ask questions! I haven't done anything that wasn't in the bargain! I haven't done anything every man doesn't do!

CLARE

Every man ... perhaps ... but one!

JERRY

Gilchrist! My God! Now we've got it! If you'd only married him! He's good, because he says so! You ought to've been here a minute ago ... when the company detective warned us not to mention Gilchrist to Joe Hennig!

DANIEL

You mean----

JERRY

I mean Pearl Hennig!

DANIEL

Pearl Hennig? Why, _you_--you _know_ that's not true!

CLARE

_I_ know it's not true!

JERRY

Do you?

STEDTMAN

[_Off R._]: Say ... now ... listen ... you behave yourself!

JOE

[_Off R._]: Behave ... hell!

JERRY

[_Continuing above these voices_]: Ask Stedtman! Ask Hennig! And before you make up your mind where _I_ was yesterday, ask where _he_ was----

[_Enter_ STEDTMAN _and_ HENNIG, _followed by the_ SERVANT.
_There is no dead cue for this entrance. They come
on_--STEDTMAN _trying to hold back_ HENNIG--_flinging open
the door as_ HENNIG _says_ "Hell!" HENNIG _confronts_
GILCHRIST.]

JOE

You--Gilchrist! Where've you got my wife?

DANIEL

I haven't got your wife, Hennig.

JOE

The hell you haven't!

DANIEL

You'd better go, Clare.

JERRY

I want her to stay. [_To the_ SERVANT] All right! [_The_ SERVANT _exits_] What's it all about, Stedtman?

STEDTMAN

You can search me! Umanski stuck to us all the way home. When he left, I went in to have a little talk with Joe ... alone.... See? There was a telegram, and he read it, and----

JOE

And came here to ask Gilchrist: Where's my wife?

DANIEL

She told me she was going to her sister's.

JOE

She ain't never been _near_ her sister, and you know it! I just got this from her sister! [_Holds out wire._ JERRY _snatches it_.] Read it!

JERRY

[_Reading_]: Pearl ain't here. We ain't seen her. Ain't she home?

DANIEL

Maybe she is.

JOE

You know she ain't! And what if she is ... now? I don't want your leavings!

DANIEL

Why do you say that, Hennig?

JOE

Why do I say it? Ain't I seen you down town with her? Ain't I found you with her when I came home unexpected? I knew you was stuck on her, and I warned you to stay away ... didn't I?

DANIEL

You were mistaken.

JOE

Didn't I warn you?

DANIEL

Yes.

JOE

And you came again ... didn't you?

DANIEL

Yes.

JERRY

Every man but one!

DANIEL

I went first on your account ... because they told me you were in debt ... and why. I "came again" because she asked me to. This disappearance looks queer, I admit, but people _do_ get lost, or hurt, and taken to hospitals, and aren't identified.

JOE

[_Half convinced_]: You think----

DANIEL

I think your wife's all right, Joe. I don't think you ought to accuse her publicly until you're sure she's not.

JOE

[_Cries_]: How'm I gonna be sure?

DANIEL

Suppose we ask the police to look for her?

JERRY

[_Turning quickly_]: What's the use of starting a hulla-ba-loo? You don't want the woman accused publicly, but you're willing to spread the news so this man'll be ashamed to go back home. We all know the facts in the case, and the least said about it now the better. [_To_ JOE] You've found her out. Let her go ... and forget it!

CLARE

I don't think he ought to forget it.

JERRY

No?

CLARE

No. I don't think he ought to drop it now ... until we all know the truth.

DANIEL

Right!

JOE

I want to know the truth! I got to! I been crazy about her! Maybe that's a good idea ... the police. I _got_ to know the truth!

JERRY

[_At bay_]: All right! Stedtman! Where were you yesterday?

STEDTMAN

At the mines.

JERRY

What part of the mines?

STEDTMAN

All over.

JERRY

Did you see Gilchrist?

STEDTMAN

No.

[DANIEL _never takes his eyes off_ CLARE. _He watches
her, as the net tightens around him, observing, with
ever-increasing agony, that he is convicted in her eyes._]

JERRY

When _did_ you see him last?

STEDTMAN

Thursday----Yes, it was Thursday.

JERRY

Where?

STEDTMAN

In Black River.

JERRY

Alone?

STEDTMAN

No.

JERRY

With whom?

STEDTMAN

With Mrs. Hennig.

JOE

I knew it! I'm gonna kill you!

JERRY

No, you're not. You're going to keep quiet. But you wanted the truth, and you've got it. I've known it all along. [_To_ CLARE] Now do you think I was lying?

CLARE

I don't know. I don't understand.

JERRY

Oh, yes, you do ... only you won't admit it!

CLARE

I suppose that's it.

[_She takes her scarf and starts wearily to exit L._]

DANIEL

Clare! [_She stops_] I don't care what anyone believes but you!

CLARE

[_Turns_]: I'll believe you, Dan, if you'll only explain.

DANIEL

I----

JERRY

I forbid you to speak to my wife!

CLARE

Go on, Dan.

JERRY

I forbid you to speak to my wife!

DANIEL

[_Exploding ... to_ JERRY]: If I hadn't anybody to think about but _you_!

[_They stare at each other ... close together. Suddenly_,
JERRY _lifts his open hand, and strikes_ DAN _across the
mouth_. DAN _starts to retaliate, but controls himself,
opens his clinched hands, and lowers his head_.]

CLARE

[_In almost speechless amazement_]: Dan; you're not going to take that?

DANIEL

I have nothing to say.

CLARE

I didn't think you were a coward. You see, I was wrong about everything.

[_The scarf in her hand, she exits L. A short pause.
Suddenly_, JOE, _emboldened by what he has witnessed,
certain of_ DAN'S _cowardice, breaks from_ STEDTMAN _and
rushes at_ GILCHRIST.]

JOE

You'll play around _my_ wife, will you? [DANIEL _merely looks at him_.] You will ... will you?... Take that! [_He strikes out._ DANIEL _seizes his wrist, and, with one powerful, dexterous movement, hurls him to the floor_].

DANIEL

[_As_ HENNIG _struggles to his feet_]: I hope I didn't hurt you, Joe.

STEDTMAN

[_Looks from_ DANIEL _to_ JERRY]: My God!

JOE

[_Retreating_]: Don't worry! I'll get _you_! It may be a long time, but I'll get _you_! [_He exits._]

DANIEL

[_With great kindness_]: Take him home, Stedtman. [STEDTMAN _looks to_ JERRY, _who jerks his head toward the door_.]

STEDTMAN

Good-night, Mr. Jerry. Tell your father we'll be around ... [DANIEL _turns and looks at him. He backs toward the door._] ... in ... the ... morning!

[_Quick exit. He closes the door, which has been left open
by_ HENNIG. _The two men look at each other._ JERRY _goes
to upper left of table, and pours himself a drink_.]

JERRY

Well, you've made a nice mess of it! Why can't you keep your nose out of other people's business? Why did you have to date my leaving Black River?

DANIEL

Why did you have to get mixed up with Pearl Hennig?

JERRY

I can take what I want out of life!

DANIEL

You can. God says: "Here is the world. Take what you want ... AND PAY FOR IT!"

JERRY

Rubbish! [_Drinks_] Save your preaching for those that like it! [_Comes down_] And keep away from my wife!

DANIEL

Why?

JERRY

Because you're in love with her! Aren't you?

DANIEL

Yes.

JERRY

Well, you've a hell of a nerve to preach to me about Hennig's wife while you're making a play for mine.

DANIEL

I'm not making a play for yours.

JERRY

No? You expect me to believe that when you admit---- Why did you pull that hero stuff? Why did you keep your mouth shut when I lost my temper? Why did you turn the other cheek?

DANIEL

You wouldn't understand, Jerry.

JERRY

Wouldn't I? Well, _you_ understand that I've forbidden you to speak to her and that goes. If you come here again, I'll have the servants throw you out, and I'll tell my father why. [GOODKIND _enters L._]

DANIEL

Here's your father now.

JERRY

And that's not all I'll do!

[_Lowering his voice_]: Not by a damned sight! [_He wheels about and exits._]

GOODKIND

[_Taking cigars from humidor_]: Smoke?

DANIEL

Thanks.

GOODKIND

[_Looking off after his son_]: Jerry don't like you much, does he?

DANIEL

Not much.

GOODKIND

[_Lights his cigar_]: Well ... how are things in Black River?

DANIEL

I think we've got everything settled.

GOODKIND

Fine! Benfield'll be up in a minute, and we'll hear the conditions! [_He sits in an easy chair L._] Somehow, I knew you'd do it! Jerry says you're a philanthropist, but I knew he was wrong!

DANIEL

Thanks.

GOODKIND

If you've really settled this strike ... our way ... your salary from today is thirty thousand a year!

DANIEL

Thanks ... again.

GOODKIND

I'm dog-sick of rowing with labor! It's such utter damned waste!... _Excuse_ me!

DANIEL

I agree with you!

GOODKIND

I'd hate to figure what walk-outs have cost this country!

DANIEL

Yes. I often wonder why it wouldn't be cheaper to keep the men contented.

GOODKIND

How're you going to do it? Don't forget there are as many people paid for stirring up strikes as for crushing 'em! Paid well, too! What the laboring man _needs_ is a real interest in his job!

DANIEL

Why don't you give it to him?

GOODKIND How? By doubling his wages? The more most of 'em get the less they want to do for it! You know that!

DANIEL

Yes.

GOODKIND

They've got a notion that you get rich by riding around in a limousine!

DANIEL

Don't you?

GOODKIND

Not often! Not unless you think while you ride ... or your father thought for you! Even then, money doesn't stay long in bad company! To hear those fellows you'd think there _wasn't_ any work, except what's done with a pick! The man that really produces is the man with the idea!

DANIEL

The man that produces most.

GOODKIND

Yes, and he ought to _get_ most!

DANIEL

He does!

GOODKIND

He always will! Show me a big man and I'll show you somebody who's done a big job! It's the little man with no capacity and no chin that cries about a conspiracy to keep him from being President!

DANIEL

There've got to be little men, too, Mr. Goodkind.

GOODKIND

And they've got to be satisfied with little rewards! We can't all have the same bank-roll any more than we can all have the same health! That's where unions go wrong! When you tell a man he's going to have the same reward, whatever he does--not because he's got ability, but because he's got a union card--down goes the standard, out goes incentive, and to hell goes the whole social structure!

DANIEL

Right!

GOODKIND

That's why I'm fighting the unions! Not because I want to starve the man who works, but because I want to fire the man who doesn't ... _and_ reward the man who does! I want to give every man a good reason for doing his best! You can talk equality and democracy all you like, Dan, but the minute the average man isn't afraid of being fired he isn't afraid of being worthless! The minute you take away incentive--the chance to get _this_--that minute you reduce the world to a common level of common indifference and common futility!

DANIEL

Right!

GOODKIND

[_Rising_]. Have another cigar! [DANIEL _shows the one he has just lighted, and shakes his head_.] Where the hell's----[_He turns, and sees_ BENFIELD _standing in the door L._] Oh, Benfield! Come in! Gilchrist has settled the strike!

BENFIELD

Good!

DANIEL

[_Giving a folded document to_ GOODKIND]: There are the terms. [GOODKIND _sits L._] They may seem a little radical, but I think I can show you they'll save money in the end!

GOODKIND

That's the idea!

[_With the paper in his hands, being opened, he feels confident and cocky. To_ BENFIELD]: I told you I knew my man! The Lord knows he's full of theories, but sometimes they--[_His eye falls upon a disturbing line_] Wait a minute! What's this?

BENFIELD

What's what?

GOODKIND

[_Reading_]: "Hereby agreed ... the men are to be represented ... on the board of directors...."

BENFIELD

[_Stunned_]: No!!

GOODKIND

Yes! And ... look here! [_Reading_] "All disputes ... referred ... to a committee of arbitration...."

BENFIELD

The man's gone crazy!

DANIEL

When you're through....

GOODKIND

[_Reading_]: "One-half of all profits, over and above a fair dividend, to be divided pro rata, according to wage and length of service." [_He rises_] Why.... [_Words fail_] What is this?

BENFIELD

Jerry told you; it's surrender!

DANIEL

No! No! It's justice!

GOODKIND

It's nothing! It's a scrap of paper until I sign it, and I wouldn't sign it if I had to shut up every mine in West Virginia! Why should I? We've got 'em licked!

DANIEL

If you'll only let me explain....

GOODKIND

Explain _what_? They're licked! They sent a delegation up here, and we've won over the delegation!

DANIEL

You mean you've _bought_ the delegation!

GOODKIND

Who said so?

DANIEL

Jerry.... Not ten minutes ago he referred to Stedtman as the company detective. We both know Hennig's for sale. Buy him, and I'll go back and tell them he's bought, and prove it!

BENFIELD

You're working for us!

DANIEL

I'm working for----

GOODKIND

Wait a minute, Benfield! We've all lost our heads! Daniel and I have just been over all this, and he admitted I was right!

DANIEL

Right as far as you went, but you only went part way! You have a right to a profit on your idea, and your investment, and the labor you put back of it! The public has a right to coal, and transportation, and all it needs and pays for! But, above everything else, the workman who works honestly has a right to something more than the barest kind of a bare living ... and it can all be done if you don't sink everybody's rights to accumulate a fortune you don't need and can't use!... All the argument on earth can't make you _all_ right so long as there's a Umanski in the World!

GOODKIND

If these people succeed there's no limit to what they'll do!

DANIEL

If they fail there's no limit to what you'll do!

GOODKIND

There's no good transferring control from the intelligent few to the ignorant mob!

DANIEL

There's no good in anything so long as we fight each other like beasts, instead of helping each other like brothers! There's no hope anywhere except in The Great Teacher, and the understanding that what He taught was not only good morals, but good sense and good business!

BENFIELD

Highfalutin nonsense!

GOODKIND

Daniel doesn't realize what he's costing us!

DANIEL

What?

GOODKIND

Millions!

DANIEL

Oh, is that all?

BENFIELD

All?

DANIEL

Am I costing you one cigar? Am I costing you one blanket from your warm beds, or one stick of furniture from your comfortable homes, or anything else you'll ever miss? I'm taking nothing from you, and I'm giving thousands of men like you a chance to live!

GOODKIND

You're costing yourself your last chance of success!

DANIEL

I don't want your kind of success! I'm through! I give you back your job, as I gave you back your church, and I give you twenty-four hours to sign that paper!

GOODKIND

If I do, you're finished!

DANIEL

I am when you've signed! [_He goes R._]

GOODKIND

If you walk out of that door you're throwing away the chance of your life!

DANIEL

I'm keeping my soul! [_He opens the door._]

BENFIELD

You Judas!

GOODKIND

You damned fool!

DANIEL

Good-night!

[DANIEL _closes the door behind him_.]

THE CURTAIN FALLS.

_ACT III._

SCENE: "Overcoat Hall." New York.

_This room--not too large--was the "front parlor" of a
comfortable residence in down-town New York. Business,
of the least attractive sort, and the slums long since
have occupied the district. The building is a red-brick,
low-stoop, English-basement house. The rear wall, which is
the front of the dwelling, is pierced by two lofty windows,
through which are seen the top of an iron railing, and a
row of similar structures, fallen into decay, across the
street. Between these windows, upon a low marble shelf, now
holding a tray of cups and saucers, originally was a tall,
gold-framed mirror. Over this hangs a blackboard, upon
which has been chalked: "And so, to the end of history,
hate shall breed hate, murder shall breed murder, until
the gods create a race that can understand." Beneath the
right window is a big radiator. Down stage R. are folding
doors, partly open, or a large single door--whichever
shall prove advisable. These--or this--lead to the main
hall, and so to the basement, or upstairs, or to the front
door, which slams solidly whenever it is closed. Left is
a decrepit, white-marble mantel, with a "fake" fireplace.
In front of this--in a jog, perhaps--a small platform, of
the kind used in public schools. Upon this, a small table
and a chair. Down stage of it, a geographical globe,
suspended over which a wall-pad informing us that today
is Wednesday. Above the mantel-shelf, another blackboard,
upon which are some simple calculations, and the axiom,
"Luck is work." In the center of the room is a long library
table, with a brown cover, and with numerous kitchen chairs
about it. On the table a reading lamp, a bowl of yellow,
purple and brown chrysanthemums; and numerous books and
magazines. Gilchrist has succeeded in making the old place
comfortable and inviting. It is a combination of club,
settlement house, school, reading room and lecture hall.
Brown linoleum covers the floor, and there are brown
denim curtains over the windows. A history chart hangs on
the wall. There are book-shelves, and two or three big,
comfortable chairs; a phonograph and, perhaps, even a
motion picture machine._

AT RISE: _It is just after seven o'clock on a brisk evening
in late October, 1920._

_Grubby, seated down stage of the center table, is
concealed behind a copy of "The Woman's Home Companion,"
which he has opened wide, and, holds in front of him._

_Mack, a shabby ne'er-do-well, between thirty and forty
years old, opens the doors R., and peers in uncertainly.
Reassured by the character of the room, he enters, and
looks about him curiously. Even from the rear, it is
evident that Grubby is a person of no authority, so Mack
dismisses him, temporarily, and warms his hands over the
radiator. Next he inspects the quotation between the
windows, pauses at the phonograph, and arrives in front of
the platform L. The three words on this blackboard interest
him. He reads them, turns away, turns back, and reads them
again. At last, he sniffs contemptuously, and, completing
his circuit, stops on the left of Grubby._

MACK

Hello ... you!

[GRUBBY _lowers his paper, and reveals a
sixty-year-old face, round, very red, and framed in a
scraggly gray beard_.]

Is this Overcoat Hall?

GRUBBY

Yes.

MACK

I'm looking for Mr. Gilchrist.

GRUBBY

He ain't in, but he will be.

MACK

Are you working here?

GRUBBY

No.

MACK

Is _anybody_ working here?

GRUBBY

Mary Margaret.

MACK

Who's she?

GRUBBY

A girl.

MACK

What girl?

GRUBBY

The girl that cleans. A lame girl. Her mother's the janitor. Have a seat. Somebody'll be along in a minute.

[_And he resumes his magazine ... never completely
abandoned. Mack, thrown upon his own resources, picks up
one periodical after another, but Fortune does not smile.
They prove to be "The Atlantic Monthly" ... "The Review of
Reviews" ... "The Scientific American."_]

MACK

What are you reading?

GRUBBY

A piece about "Better Babies."

MACK

[_Laughs_]: Are you going into the baby business?

GRUBBY

No. I was a hansom driver.

MACK

Handsome! [_The laugh becomes uproarious._]

GRUBBY

Ah ... hacks! I drove hacks ... man and boy ... forty years. Then taxis come in, and I went out!

MACK

What'd you do then?

GRUBBY

Took to drink.

MACK

Yeh; then drink went out.

GRUBBY

What's _your_ job?

MACK

Well, I was in the movies. That is, I was going to be, but the fellow that was going to put up the money, his mother didn't die, after all.... Before that, I sold bricks ... a few weeks. I sold books, too. And life insurance. I never had any luck. Who wrote that, "Luck is Work"?

GRUBBY

Mr. Gilchrist.

MACK

Well, it isn't! I've worked at _fifty_ things, and look at me! I figure the world owes _me_ a living, and here I am, waiting for a bite of grub and an overcoat! Is it true the boss'll give you an overcoat?

GRUBBY

He will if he's got one.

MACK

That's what a fellow told me. He said that's why they call this Overcoat Hall.

GRUBBY

Yes.

MACK

I suppose a hard-luck story's the proper spiel.

GRUBBY

You don't get no chance for a spiel. He don't ask you nothing. You just come, and help yourself, and talk things over ... if you want to. Coffee and sandwiches every night--and suppers and sermons on Wednesdays.

MACK

Preaching! [_Looks at the wall pad, and reaches for his hat._] Wednesday. I'll be back Thursday.

GRUBBY

Not regular preaching! Just talks! Sometimes they's a picture show ... but the pictures is rotten! No shooting, or nothing! But you can always sneak a little snooze 'til you get to the hand-out!

[MARY MARGARET _enters through the open door R.
Her two crutches are rubber-tipped, so her invasion is
noiseless. She occupies herself with the cups and saucers
C._ MARY MARGARET _is fifteen, and pathetically
pretty. The conspicuous feature of her costume is a pair of
soiled gold slippers that once set off a ball gown._]

MACK

Don't he try to reform you?

GRUBBY

Naw! The way he talks, you'd think you was as good as him. He says to me, the other night, he says, "You're a good man yet, Grubby," he says. "You're strong and healthy," he says, "and, if you learned to drive a taxi, all the best people in New York would be telephoning for your cab. I'll lend you the money," he says. Gee; he almost had me started!

MACK

What's the catch?

GRUBBY

I don't know.

MACK

There must be graft in it somewhere.

GRUBBY

If you ask me, I think the poor gent's got a few nuts in his nose-bag. A little bit batty. That's what _I_ say!

MARY MARGARET

[_Turning down_]: And that's what you got no right to say, Grubby!

GRUBBY

[_To_ MACK]: Mary Margaret.

MARY MARGARET

He's been good to you, ain't he?

GRUBBY

That's why we think he's nutty. What's he do it for?

MARY MARGARET

'Cause he loves you.

GRUBBY

What for?

MARY MARGARET

God knows! [_She has brought down a cup and saucer, with other utensils, and is clearing and setting a place at one end of the table. With this exclamation, she locates the cup somewhat forcibly._] After seven o'clock now, and the meeting in half an hour, and he ain't had a bite since morning!

MACK

Where _is_ he?

MARY MARGARET

He went to see a man that killed himself. [MACK _laughs_] I mean ... tried to. It was in the papers this afternoon, and Mr. Gilchrist says: "I want to talk to that man." [MACK'S _interposition has brought his words to her mind, and reflecting on them, she explodes_.] Graft!! Why he didn't have the rent money yesterday, and he was desprit! He ain't had money to get himself a pair of shoes, and nobody helps him, or comes near him, but you bums that roast him behind his back! [GOODKIND _appears in the doorway R._]

GRUBBY

I didn't roast him. I just said he was crazy.

GOODKIND

[_Crisply_]: Mr. Gilchrist?

MARY MARGARET

He'll be here any minute. Won't you come in?

GOODKIND

Thanks.

[_He comes forward a few steps, and looks at_
GRUBBY, _who, after an instant, takes refuge
behind his Home Companion_. GOODKIND _crosses
to_ MACK, _who turns up stage. He surveys the
blackboard._ MARY MARGARET _finishes her task_.]

MARY MARGARET

[_Offering a periodical to_ GOODKIND]: Take a magazine, and sit down. [_With a nod, he accepts._] I got to go make the coffee. [_To_ GRUBBY] You can come and carry it up in about fifteen minutes. [_She turns and catches_ MACK _filching a loaf of sugar_.] Graft!! ... Well, you ought to know! [_She exits R., singing "I'm a Pilgrim." By now_, GOODKIND _is reading in a big chair L._ MACK _glances at him, and comes down to_ GRUBBY.]

MACK

Think she'll tell _him_?

GRUBBY

Naw! Anyway, he don't care! He says we're all brothers in God.

MACK

Gee!

GRUBBY

That's what he told Jimmie Curran--brothers in God--and Jimmie just up for pinchin' a guy's pants. Jimmie lives across from his room upstairs, and Jimmie says he's clean loco. [GOODKIND _notes name and address on the margin of his magazine_.] Guess what he's got in the back yard!

MACK

What?

GRUBBY

Tennis. And handball games for children. And, in the other two houses, he's got flats ... with bathtubs ... and the rents ain't what they ask now for stalling a horse. Why wouldn't I say he was crazy? Everybody says so but Mary Margaret!

[DANIEL _enters R. He is shabby, but beaming. He
carries two books, which he lays on some piece of furniture
up R.; after which he removes his overcoat, and hangs it
over an old umbrella already suspended from a wall-rack
down stage of the door._]

DANIEL

Hello, Grubby! You're early! And you've brought a friend! That's fine! [_He shakes hands with_ MACK.] You're very welcome! [_Sees and crosses to_ GOODKIND] And Mr. Goodkind! Well! You're welcome, too! [_Shakes hands_] Have you come down to look us over?

GOODKIND

[_His eyes indicating the others_]: I've come down on personal business.

DANIEL

Oh, yes! [_Turns_] Grubby, there's a box of books in the hall. How would you and your friend like to----

GRUBBY

I promised to help with the coffee.

DANIEL

I see. [GRUBBY _exits. To_ MACK, _who has been stealing surreptitious glances at the overcoat_] And you?

MACK

I just wanted to speak to you a minute.

DANIEL

All right. After the meeting.

MACK

I wanted to ask you----

DANIEL

_After the meeting!_ [_Turns back to_ GOODKIND] Sit down.

GOODKIND

[_Sitting_]: Thanks.

[MACK--_resentful, unobserved, uncertain of
getting the coat honestly--is sorely tempted. One pull,
one step, and he is safe from work and denial. During the
following, standing almost in the doorway, he is drawing
the garment toward him._]

DANIEL

[_To_ GOODKIND]: I'm glad you dropped in tonight, because I've been intending to call on you, but there's so much to do here--[_The coat comes off the rack, and with it, the umbrella, which falls with a crash. Both men rise, discovering_ MACK, _coat in hand_.] Hello! I thought you'd gone.

MACK

No; I--I--wanted----

DANIEL

You wanted my coat.

MACK

[_Advancing with a glad smile of pretended relief that_ DANIEL _has found the simple explanation_]: Yes ... that's what I wanted to ask you.

DANIEL

I'm so glad you said so. [MACK _shows surprise_.] Because, if you hadn't and I hadn't understood, you might have been tempted to take it without asking--and then you'd've been so sorry and ashamed. A man couldn't come into another man's house, and be welcomed, and then take the other man's coat, without losing his self-respect ... could he? And, of course, if we're going to pull ourselves together, and get out of a hole, we _must_ keep our self-respect.

MACK

I wouldn't steal----

DANIEL

You couldn't.... It's your coat.... You asked for it, and I gave it to you.... When you've worn it ... into a good job ... come back and help me give another to someone who needs it as you do.

MACK

I will.

DANIEL

Of course you will. [_Helps him into the coat, and then shakes his hand._] Good-night.

MACK

[_Hesitates, amazed_]: Good-night. [DANIEL _turns L., and with a gesture expressive of the conviction that this man is mad_, MACK _exits_.]

GOODKIND

Well, I'll be damned! [DANIEL _laughs_] He won't come back! Not one in ten would come back!

DANIEL

All right!... That coat cost twenty dollars. If one in ten _does_ come back, we've made a man for two hundred dollars. Isn't it worth the price?

GOODKIND

Maybe ... if a man's _got_ the price! Have you?

DANIEL

Like our friend ... that's what I wanted to ask you.

GOODKIND

It's not what I wanted to ask _you_.

DANIEL

I'm rather badly in need of money, and my father----

GOODKIND

Your father understood you well enough to leave you only an income. I foolishly turned over some of the principal, and, in three months, you threw away twenty thousand dollars. You could have had a big salary, and you threw _that_ away. You're an utter damned waster--if you're no worse!

DANIEL

What do you mean ... worse?

GOODKIND

You'll soon find out what I mean! You've had my son's wife down here, haven't you?

DANIEL

Once or twice.

GOODKIND

Or three times ... or a dozen! _He_ knows!

DANIEL

I've asked her not to come again.

GOODKIND

And _he's_ asked her ... but she's coming when she likes. She says so. Because she's in love with you.... God knows what women see in your kind of man! There was Pearl Hennig----

DANIEL

Please!

GOODKIND

Oh, my son told me! And I hear ... in the neighborhood ... that you've worse women than that running here! Women of the streets!

DANIEL

Not many. They're welcome, but they don't come.

GOODKIND

Well, that's _your_ business! And if your neighbors get sick of having a resort of this kind in their midst, and drive you out, _that's_ your business! But my son's wife----

DANIEL

Is _her_ business!

GOODKIND

And _his_! Only Jerry's in no condition to settle the matter! He's broken down from worry and overwork, and you're partly responsible, and that puts it up to me! You can take this as a final warning! If you see Clare again, I'll act, and I'll act quick! That's all! Good-night! [_He gathers up his coat and hat, and crosses to the door._]

DANIEL

[_Waking from a reverie, and turning R._] Oh! Mr. Goodkind!

GOODKIND

[_Expecting capitulation. Comes down R._]: Yes?

DANIEL

How about the money?

GOODKIND

You've had what's coming to you!

DANIEL

But that's _nothing_! I pay half that for these crazy houses! And I've gone terribly in debt fitting them up!

GOODKIND

With bath tubs and tennis courts!

DANIEL

People must have baths.

GOODKIND

These dirty immigrants!

DANIEL

The dirtier they are, the worse they need 'em. I want to show them how to live, and I want to show other people that you don't have to make a pigpen to make a profit!

GOODKIND

Are you making a profit?

DANIEL

Enormous! And, to go on, I've got to have twenty-two thousand dollars.

GOODKIND

Oh, is that all? Twenty-two thousand dollars to go on making a fool of yourself! Well, you won't get it!

DANIEL

Not even as an advance?

GOODKIND

Not a penny!

DANIEL

Don't drive me to----

GOODKIND

To what?

DANIEL

[_Rather at a loss_]: To ask for an accounting!

GOODKIND

[_Hardly believing his own ears_]: To ask for ... WHAT? [_This is the last straw._] Now listen to me! I've stood all I'm going to stand! You've run amuck! You've become dangerous to yourself ... and me ... and the neighborhood! You're going to stop it, and you're going to stop now!

DANIEL

That's your mistake.

GOODKIND

Is it? A year ago you gave me twenty-four hours to sign a paper, and I did it, and it cost me two million dollars! Tonight I give you thirty minutes to shut up this place, and quit seeing my daughter, and if you don't do it----

DANIEL

As I won't!

GOODKIND

I'll be here inside of half an hour with a doctor!

DANIEL

And then?

GOODKIND

Then we'll file a petition to have you declared incompetent! [_He starts R._]

DANIEL

Mr. Goodkind, you don't, mean that! You don't mean that because I'm trying to help----

GOODKIND

Help ... whom? Strikers, and street women, and general riff-raff! And you don't even help _them_ ... because nobody _can_! And, if you _could_, and _did_, how in the name of God would that help the Community? If I find you're still crazy in half an hour, I'll _say_ you're crazy, and _I'll prove it_! [_He goes to the door._] Think it over! [_As he is about to exit, he narrowly escapes collision with a neatly-dressed, capable-looking man, who apologizes, in nearly correct English, and, with a contemptuous glance, crosses to up C._]

THE MAN

Excuse me!

GOODKIND

All right! [_He follows the man back into the room._] Haven't I seen you somewhere before?

THE MAN

Yes, sir. My name's Umanski.

GOODKIND

Umanski? [_He remembers_] _You're_ not the Pole who came to my house last year with a delegation?

UMANSKI

Yes.

GOODKIND

Well, I'll be----[DANIEL _fills his pipe from a jar on the mantelpiece L._]

UMANSKI

Mr. Gilchrist tell me stay in New York. He's teach me English, and find me good job. I'm work now eight hours on the docks, and six on myself. [GOODKIND _again starts to go_.]

DANIEL

Mr. Goodkind! [GOODKIND _turns_] Umanski's got an invention. If you'll see it----

GOODKIND

I'll see _you_ in ... half an hour! [_He exits._]

UMANSKI

What's _he_ doing down here, Mr. Gilchrist?

DANIEL

He says I'm crazy, and he's going to shut up this place. Of course, he won't. [_He opens a book._]

UMANSKI

Don't be too sure.

DANIEL

Nonsense! [_He sits_] I made him angry. [_He marks a passage._] And somebody's told him a lot of lies!

UMANSKI

Somebody's told a good many people lies! Yesterday I heard a man say you run this house to ... to ... [_He hesitates._ DAN _looks up_.] ... to get women!

DANIEL

Who said that?

UMANSKI

A wop named Malduca.

DANIEL

Oh, yes! I took his daughter in here once ... for a week ... until he got sober.

UMANSKI

They's a good many like that.

DANIEL

Oh, not a good many!

UMANSKI

Enough to make trouble. Why not you carry a pistol?

DANIEL

It's generally men with pistols that get shot.

UMANSKI

One of them fellows get you----[_Enter_ MARY MARGARET.]

DANIEL

[_Warning him_]: Sh!

MARY MARGARET

I s'pose you ain't had any supper.

DANIEL

Not yet. [GRUBBY _enters with a tray, from which_ MARY MARGARET _transfers dishes to the table_.]

UMANSKI

I brought you some money.

DANIEL

Money?

UMANSKI

My boss he give me another raise. He gonna make _me_ boss after while. So I like to begin pay back what you lend me. [_Takes out bills._]

DANIEL

Wait 'til you've sent for your family.

UMANSKI

I'm gonna send now. My big boy I'm gonna send school ... college, maybe. That pump I make she goes fine. I show my boss ... like you say ... because he know about coal mines ... and he say if she work she save whole lots of lives and money. She work, all right! [_He has put down the bills, and brought forth an English grammar._] How about I go upstairs and study?

DANIEL