Prologue:
Inebriated with thoughts of past indiscretions, a pedestrian, his given name ‘Durwood’, bumbles into a place of worship … on the eve of the winter solstice. Upon entering, he is met by a tall gent wearing a frock holding a just lit candle. The wax drips. The scents of bourbon, musk and Cornish hen float in the air.
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Durwood: My but it’s awfully quiet in here.
Scratch: ‘Tis true. So, did you come here to get blessed or what?
Durwood: (hands in pocket) Well, uh, I was thinking more along the lines of absolution.
Scratch: I see. Seeking salvation, eh? (jokingly) Do they even do that here any more?
Durwood: (laughs) Yeah, I, uh, don’t know. You see, it’s been awhile and um…
Scratch: Say no more. I understand perfectly. You know, they say it’s better to give than receive.
Durwood: Pardon?
Scratch: Well, you’re here for the “go forth and sin no more” part, right?
Durwood: (sheepishly) Look, um, this is a bit awkward …
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