SC9. INT. CATHEDRAL - DAY

Father Proust, aging, weathered, is arranging pamphlets in the foyer. When he sees Ramsey, he motions for him to head into the side row of pews. Michael. It’s good to see you. You haven’t been at mass lately. Do you need to confess? Spare me the rhetoric father, I’m here on business. Some might say that rhetoric is my business son, well, at least my main business. I have extra stock coming in. I will need twice as much storage space. The NDG church isn’t enough, I need an additional location. What kind of stock? Do you really want to know that father? I told you, it’s maple syrup. Father Proust knows it’s not maple syrup. He has wrestled with the moral dilemma, but his deep desire to keep the vacant properties in the possession of the church is stronger than his objections to Michael’s business. In his heart he believes that if he can just find a way to hang on to these old churches, somehow, the lord will provide a miracle, and the people will come back. Besides, he has seen the maple syrup tins, and it is easier on his conscience if he chooses to play along. Sadly, I can accommodate you. We have had another church close on the west island. It’s perfect. You won’t be disturbed there, but Michael, it is expensive to keep these old buildings afloat, you will need to pay extra. That’s fine as long as you can wait a couple weeks. When can I have the keys? Come back the day after tomorrow, I will have everything ready for you, and Michael, if you won’t come to mass, will you at least confess? I am worried about you. We have had this conversation too many times father. I will come to mass if you give me a break on the storage. Michael. Michael. Always about business. It is not about money. If it’s not about money then take the deal? You know I can’t. That money is for the church Michael. That’s what I figured. Ramsey leaves Proust in the pew and walks out. Getting back into his car, he reaches into the glove box, takes out his other cell phone and places a call.