bore a very excellent character with your late employer in India;
but there was one matter he didn't mention-- No doubt you will
recognise its importance in a clergyman's family-- He never
mentioned your religion.

MANSON. I can soon remedy that, sir. My religion is very simple.
I love God and all my brothers.

VICAR [after a pause]. God and your brothers . . .

MANSON. Yes, sir: _all_ of them.

[The VICAR stands thoughtful for a moment. He places the paten on
the table, beside him.]

VICAR [slowly]. That is not always so easy, Manson; but it is my
creed, too.

MANSON. Then-- Brother!

[Rapt in thought, the VICAR takes his profferred hand mechanically.]

[MARY enters. She is a slim young girl in her teens, the picture
of rosy sweetness and health.]

MARY. Good-morning, Uncle William! Oh! . . . I suppose you're
Manson? I must say you look simply ripping! How do you do? My
name's Mary. [She offers her hand.]

MANSON [kissing it]. A very dear name, too!