DEX. (Puts hat on table r.c.) That’s just where you’re making a mistake then. He’s not a fool. He’ll want an answer, “Yes,” or “No,” soon, and what are you going to say then?
CLARA. (Looking out of window.) No. (Looking into fireplace r.)
DEX. (After a pause—violently.) Luke Cranbourne’s at the bottom of this. What devil’s game is it that’s going on between you and him? (Loudly.)
CLARA. I do wish you wouldn’t drink when you’re coming out anywhere, it always makes you so noisy. (At glass.)
DEX. (Violently.) Take care, Clara—you seem to forget I’m your father.
CLARA. (Coldly.) The relationship was none of my seeking. Whatever responsibility attaches to the unfortunate—(moves near Dex.)—occurrence is not mine.
DEX. (l. making movement as if to strike her.) Clara.
CLARA. (Facing him with quiet contempt—a pause.) Put down your hands, father. That period of my life is over. (Crosses. Dex. steps back, then throws himself into chair, leans his head on his arms, and bursts into tears r.c.)
DEX. (Crying.) My own child hates me.
CLARA. (Crossing and laying a hand on his shoulder gently.) I don’t mean to be hard, father, but you can’t expect much love and duty from me. Curses and blows were all you ever gave me as a child, and ever since I became a woman you have merely hawked me about as your decoy.