How we cite our quotes: (Act, Scene, Line)
Quote #1
HORNBECK. […] The Baltimore Herald, therefore, is happy to announce
That it is sending two representatives to "Heavenly Hillsboro":
The most brilliant reporter in America today,
Myself.
And the most agile legal mind of the Twentieth Century,
Henry Drummond.
(This name is like a whip-crack.)
At this point in the text, Brady has already arrived on the scene, but Bert's lawyer's identity hasn't been announced yet. And then: ta-da. This moment tells us that the fight at the center of Inherit the Wind is going to be a feisty one. The stage directions, especially—with their simile of the whip-crack—really reveal to the hubbub that Drummond's name causes in the town.
Quote #2
BRADY. If the enemy sends its Goliath into battle, it magnifies our cause. Henry Drummond has stalked the courtrooms of this land for forty years. When he fights, headlines follow. (With growing fervor) The whole world will be watching our victory over Drummond. (Dramatically) If St. George had slain a dragonfly, who would remember him. (I, I, 628-33)
This is Brady's "bring it on" moment; he looks forward to a good competition, because it will bring him even more press. And he's not even shy about his fame addiction. He seems to think he's justified because any press for him is press for Good. Right, Brady. Right.
Quote #3
HORNBECK. I'm inspecting the battlefield
The night before the battle. Before it's cluttered
With the debris of journalistic camp-followers.
(Hiking himself up on a window ledge)
I'm scouting myself an observation post
To watch the fray. (I, I, 693-98)
Hornbeck's metaphor for the courtroom is a battlefield, and it's an apt one, given how bloodthirsty both sides end up being. Good thing we have the poetic Mr. Hornbeck around to set the scene for us. Thanks, bro.