peacey. Then . . perhaps you won't be so particular.
At this gentle insinuation edward looks up exasperated.
edward. So you don't believe what I told you?
peacey. Yes, I do.
edward. Then you think that the fascination of swindling one's clients will ultimately prove irresistible?
peacey. It's what happened to your father, I suppose you know.
This gives edward such pause that he drops his masterful tone.
edward. I didn't.
peacey. He got things as right as rain once.
edward. Did he?