Page:Hamilton play 1917.pdf/60

48 it'd been all right, because they are paying their men, but Rhode Island says they can't.

Rh

What do you wish me to do?

I heard General Washington spoke at a meeting of the soldiers last night and he gave his word that every one would be paid. I know he will keep his word, sir, but we can't wait.

[Kindly.] Why did you come to me?

They told me that you were Secretary of the Treasury, where all the money is.

[Giving another hopeless look at , who grunts.] I wish I could make you understand. The Treasury at present is only a name—an empty name. [Takes paper from ] This is Rhode Island's promise to pay. Mrs. Whalen, I am trying to make the country keep this promise; I'm trying to make them pay.

How long shall we have to wait, sir?

I don't know. Here [trying two waistcoat pockets before finding it] take this.