edward. [as he relaxes and turns, almost shuddering, from the possibility of dreadful knowledge.] No . . no . . he never guessed. [Then, with a sudden fresh impulse.] I hope you won't do this, Mr. Booth.
mr. booth. I have quite made up my mind.
edward. You must let me persuade you—
mr. booth. [conciliatory.] I shall make a point of informing your family that you are in no way to blame in the matter. And in the event of any personal legal difficulties I shall always be delighted to come to you. My idea is for the future to employ merely a financial agent—
edward. [still quite unstrung really, and his nerves betraying him.] If you had made up your mind before my father died to do this, you ought to have told him.
mr. booth. Please allow me to know my own business best. I did not choose to distress him by—
edward. [pulling himself together: speaking half to himself.] Well . . well . . this is one way out. And it's not my fault.
mr. booth. You're making a fearful fuss about a very simple matter, Edward. The loss of one client, however important he may be . . Why, this is one of the best family practices in London. I am surprised at your lack of dignity.
edward yields smilingly to this assertiveness.
edward. True . . I have no dignity. Will you walk off with your papers now?