BISHOP. Prescott gave me his word when I--when we made the arrangement--that he would make a real place for Kenneth as soon as he could.

LAURA. So far he hasn't.

BISHOP. It's a matter of time. Business is greatly improved. Building must revive by the spring. Therefore, don't you see, if our boy is patient until then ... [LAURA shakes her head.] We must make him go on. If he gives it up now he may lose a real opportunity. That is what you and I must make him see! The opportunity ahead.

LAURA. He couldn't go on.

BISHOP. He must.

LAURA. No. Why must he?

BISHOP. [Tenderly.] A family, my dear, is a very conclusive argument.

LAURA. Family? What do you mean?

BISHOP. [Still with his tender sentimentality.] I take it, since Kenneth spoke of a wife and baby ...

LAURA. [Half-laughing.] Oh!--Thank God, no!