I recognized his ability—I helped him to realize his own powers. [_Tensely._] Oh, please, can’t you understand? I’m trying to do the one thing a woman can do for a man. LEE [_He has come to a decision and now breaks in_]. Mrs. Rabinowitz, let me ask you a question.... When was the last time that Jack attended a synagogue? SARA When he was confirmed. He was thirteen years old. He sang a solo in the choir. It was beautiful. LEE Mary, did he ever attend a synagogue during the time you have known him? MARY No. LEE Mrs. Rabinowitz, he ran away from all this, [_Indicates the room_] didn’t he? SARA [_Slowly_]. Why are you asking me like this questions? LEE [_Crescendo_]. Because I want that boy to be true to himself. Do you suppose the Cantor would want Jack to sing unless he sings with the heart of a Jew? I know that boy. He’s saying to himself, “My career is gone. The girl I love is losing faith in me. I don’t want to sing this stuff that I don’t understand—to a God whose meaning I don’t get.” He’s saying to himself, “My mother will be heartbroken if I don’t do it. My father will die. That’s why I’ll do it.” SARA [_In a faint voice_]. No, no. You are telling me lies! MARY [Moved]. Harry—let’s go—can’t you see you are hurting— LEE [Rising to his climax]. Supposing the Cantor could see into Jack’s heart? Do you know what he would see there? Jazz music, _nigger music_—if you want to call it that. Do you think that would make him happy? [_The door opens and_ JACK _enters. The evening light has deepened._ JACK’s _face is white, his eyes burning black. There is a new quality in him; he has become fanatic_]. JACK Mama, you better get ready. [_He sees no one, apparently, except his mother._] The services will begin soon. [_Now he sees_ MARY. _Carefully laying down the praying shawl and skull cap he brought with him, he turns to her. He speaks quietly._] You came! MARY Yes, Jack. JACK [_Simply_]. I’m glad. SARA Jakie. JACK Yes. SARA I want to ask you something.... JACK Yes, Mama. SARA I want you should tell me the truth. JACK Yes, Mama. SARA