Act III Summary
Act Three
Bert and Drummond discuss the potential results of the trial. Drummond shares a story from his childhood about a toy rocking horse he received for his birthday from his parents. The horse, which he named Golden Dancer, appeared beautiful, but when he attempted to ride it, it broke in two. Drummond uses this story to demonstrate that appearances can be deceiving; a toy horse that looks strong and beautiful might actually be fragile and cheap, much like how long-held beliefs can be false. In the courtroom, the jury delivers a guilty verdict, and the judge imposes a $100 fine on Bert. Brady argues that the punishment is too mild. Drummond surprises everyone by announcing his intention to appeal to the state Supreme Court, stating he would do so even if the fine were just a dollar. Frustrated by not securing a more significant triumph, Brady attempts to have his opinions recorded, but the judge dismisses him, the courtroom ignores him, and a radio broadcaster cuts him off. Suddenly, Brady collapses and is carried out of the courtroom, leaving Bert, Drummond, and Rachel to discuss the outcome of the trial. When the judge returns to announce Brady's death, Hornbeck cynically criticizes Brady and his beliefs. Drummond angrily confronts Hornbeck, condemning his attitude as self-serving and lacking compassion. Hornbeck leaves, bewildered, while Bert and Rachel plan to leave together on the afternoon train. Drummond notices Rachel's copy of Darwin's The Origin of Species—a kind of bible for evolutionists—which she has left behind, but Bert and Rachel are already out of hearing range. Drummond sees the court's Bible on the judge's bench, weighs it against Darwin's book, claps them together, and places them both in his briefcase. He exits the courtroom and crosses the town square.
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