(Starkweather grunts.) A position of prominence in my state. You forget, sir, that in our state organization I occupy no mean place.
Starkweather
(Cutting him off so sharply that Dowsett drops cup and saucer.) Don't you show your teeth to me. I can make you or break you. That state organization of yours belongs to me.
(Dowsett starts—he is learning something new. To hide his feelings, he stoops to pick up cup and saucer.) Let it alone! I am talking to you.
(Dowsett straightens up to attention with alacrity.) (Connie, who has witnessed, rings for Servant.) I bought that state organization, and paid for it. You are one of the chattels that came along with the machine. You were made senator to obey my orders. Understand? Do you understand?
Dowsett
(Beaten.) I—I understand.
Starkweather
That bill is to be killed.
Dowsett