He and his wife were still dressing when they heard a knock at the door. It was Gray, who lived nearby.
Years later, Schlager recalled, “My friend appeared to try to speak but words did not come. Only a profusion of tears.
“I had never seen tears flow in a rushing stream like that before. Certainly not in a grown man….
“His heart was truly broken. His tears spoke so much more than mere words could have. I will never forget that expression of authentic love of a Christian for his Jewish neighbors.”
He, his wife, and Gray silently embraced until the police arrived. Then Gray accompanied them to the ruins of the synagogue.