diff --git a/src/as/com/threerings/flex/ChatControl.as b/src/as/com/threerings/flex/ChatControl.as
index bceba073..3e0f4a9c 100644
--- a/src/as/com/threerings/flex/ChatControl.as
+++ b/src/as/com/threerings/flex/ChatControl.as
@@ -72,6 +72,14 @@ public class ChatControl extends HBox
         addEventListener(Event.REMOVED_FROM_STAGE, handleAddRemove);
     }
 
+    /**
+     * Provides access to the text field we use to accept chat.
+     */
+    public function get chatInput () :ChatInput
+    {
+        return _txt;
+    }
+
     /**
      * Request focus to this chat control.
      */