I’ll endow him—to please you. But I demand interest on my investment. I’ll build the finest workshop a scientist ever had: give him ten, twenty, a hundred assistants; the most renowned scientists in the world, no matter what they cost.—He can spend any amount on whatever he needs in his work. But I’ll have no young society-man business—

[Fanny starts and her expression grows sullen.

MAGNUS

He’ll stay here, on Long Island. And he’ll spend no more on himself than he needs to live decently. If I sacrifice millions, he must sacrifice something

FANNY

What do you mean by living decently. (Biting her lips) The way you live?

MAGNUS

No, that’s living extravagantly. (Smiling)

FANNY

Mother, Mr. Magnus has just been joking at your expense.