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Colum, Padraic, 1881-1972

"Three Plays"


ANNA
Besides, James has no money of his own.
SCOLLARD
I never had the chance of putting money by--Family calls,
Mrs. Crilly.
ANNA
And we don't want to begin life in a poor way.
MRS. CRILLY
You won't want the whole of the money. I'll give you
forty pounds now.
CRILLY
And forty when the first child is born.
ANNA
Oh, father, how can you say such a thing?
SCOLLARD
I need only say this. Anna and myself were talking over
affairs, and we came to the conclusion it would be best not to start
with less than eighty pounds. _(He rises)_ I have to go down to the
Board Room now, for there is a meeting of the Guardians. _(He goes
towards door)_
CRILLY
Won't you take a glass?
SCOLLARD
No, thanks, Mr. Crilly. I never touch stimulants. Good day
to you all.
_He goes out. Crofton Crilly goes after him_.
MRS. CRILLY
Anna, you won't be deprived of your money.
ANNA
Then what's the difficulty, mother?
MRS. CRILLY
Let half of the money remain with us for a while.
ANNA
But, mother, if I don't get all my money, what security have I
that what's left will be good in six months or a year?
MRS. CRILLY
I'll watch the money for you, Anna.
ANNA
It's hard to keep a hold on money in a town where business is
going down.
MRS. CRILLY
Forty pounds will be given to you and forty pounds will
be kept safe for you.
ANNA
Forty pounds! There's not a small farmer comes into the shop
but his daughter has more of a dowry than forty pounds.


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