There is a flash and a peal of
thunder.
AUGUSTA. Oh! Asher, did you know that the elm at the end of the Common
was struck just now?--that splendid old landmark!
ASHER. All the old landmarks are being struck down, one after another.
AUGUSTA (going up to him and putting her hand on his arm). I've been so
nervous all day. Do be careful how you go about during this strike.
Those sullen and angry groups of men on the street this morning--
ASHER. Oh, they wouldn't dare touch me. If we only had a state
constabulary we'd soon break that sort of thing up. But the Legislature
trembles whenever a labour leader opens his mouth.
AUGUSTA (sitting down and taking up her knitting). If only I could be
of some help to you! But it's always been so.
ASHER. You've been a good wife, Augusta!
AUGUSTA. I don't know. I've kept your house, I've seen that you were
well fed, but I've been thinking lately how little that is for a woman
--for a human being.
ASHER (surprised). Why, Augusta! I can't remember the time when you
haven't been busy. You've taken an active part in church work and looked
out for the people of the village.
AUGUSTA. Yes, and what has it all amounted to? The poor are ungrateful,
they won't go near the church, and today they're buying pianos.
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