...READING...

SCENE 3

 

Inside of his home, DR ROME is preparing for the church burning.  His wife and son are trying to convince him to allow WES to go along.

 

WES

Come on dad, I’m ready for this.  I’ll be fine.

 

ROME

I don’t know Wes.  It’s not a game we’re playing here.  It can be dangerous.

 

MELANIE

Oh Dan, he’s gonna be a man soon, and it’s good for him to be exposed to these things.

 

ROME

What are you saying, Melanie?

 

MELANIE

Well, he’s already a member and he’s gonna have to grow up sometime.  Besides, it’s really no big deal.

 

WES

Yeah dad.

 

ROME

No big deal?  We’re going to burn a church, a place that people hold sacred.

 

MELANIE

It’s just a nigger church.

 

WES

Yeah dad, it’s not like God will mind.

 

ROME

Wes!

 

WES

It has to be done dad.  Besides, they’ve gotten too far out of hand.

 

MELANIE

My baby boy is growing up.  I’m so proud of you.

 

ROME

Wes, go wash up for supper.

 

WES

Will you let me,…

 

ROME

Wes!

 

WES

Yes sir.

 

Exit WES.