Page:Ivan Cankar - Hlapci.pdf/13

 Principal. Do not fear! Our nation is conscious, healthy on the inside. Let's trust this nation, let's as well trust the overwhelming progress, which is a natural necessity and slows no-when and no-where.

Mayor. Our village does not conclude the election. It has been noted black since ever and it will remain black; as though it was cursed!

Komar. It will not remain! What do you mean, "will remain black," you moron? That is half way to giving in to the clerical will! If we were to do as such clerics call for. ..

Hvastja. Will you do your praying I assigned, will you follow what I ordered you, sinner?

Minka. Truthfully, our village could be of another color. Our greatest sin is our apathy—

Geni. Such carelessness—

Doctor. I myself am so calm I did not cast my ballot. I know our people as not many others do. They visit churches and pilgrimages all lives long, preaches and prays. . . But all this is all out of habit! It is all a century-old and expired national tradition! Clerics are just the defenders of those traditions and habits. . . Let the politicians shatter some old facts and install some new benefits. . . Only then, will the people show their views. I was once honored by getting to know a priest who discussed canceling a single holiday. . . They nearly killed him. Ask a peasant on whether we shall cancel religion or the yearly fair. They will not be slow to respond. To them, the priest is no apostle's ancestors; to them, the priest is a defender of national holidays, traditions and parties. Thus, the peasant does respect the cleric, though for quite a different reasoning than one may think.