STRAWMAN. Yes, in my path you’ve cast the stone of doubt, And nobody but you can cast it out. Between my kin and me you’ve set a bar,— Remove the bar, the strangling noose undo— FALK. You possibly believe I keep the glue Of lies for Happiness’s broken jar? STRAWMAN. I do believe, the faith your reasons tore To shreds, your reasons may again restore; The limb that you have shatter’d, you can set; Reverse your judgment,—the whole truth unfold, Restate the case—I’ll fly my banner yet— FALK [_haughtily_]. I stamp no copper Happiness as gold. STRAWMAN [_looking fixedly at him_]. Remember then that, lately, one whose scent For truth is of the keenest told us this: [_With uplifted finger._ “There runs through all our life a Nemesis, Which may delay, but never will relent.” [_He goes towards the house._ STIVER. [_Coming out with glasses on, and an open book in his hand._ Pastor, you must come flying like the blast! Your girls are sobbing— THE CHILDREN [_in the doorway_]. Pa! STIVER. And Madam waiting! [_STRAWMAN goes in._ This lady has no talent for debating. [_Puts the book and glasses in his pocket, and approaches_ FALK. Falk! FALK. Yes! STIVER. I hope you’ve changed your mind at last? FALK. Why so? STIVER. For obvious reasons. To betray Communications made in confidence, Is conduct utterly without defence. They must not pass the lips. FALK. No, I’ve heard say It is at times a risky game to play. STIVER. The very devil! FALK. Only for the great. STIVER [_zealously_].