Peale. But nowadays it isn’t only people who have stoves to sell or tooth-brushes, that are spending money on publicity. Banks are advertising for money, nations for immigrants, colleges for students, cities for citizens, and churches for congregations, and you sit there thinking it doesn’t pay to advertise.
Mary. Six hundred and sixteen million dollars were spent last year in magazines and newspapers, billboards and electric signs.
Rodney. Bringing education and comfort and fun and luxury to the people of the United States. It’s romance, father, the romance of printing-presses, of steel rails, of the wireless, of trains and competition, the romance of modern business, and it’s all built on advertising. Advertising is the biggest thing in this country, and it’s only just begun.
Martin. (After a pause) Why didn’t you boys go into the advertising business? You seem to know something about that?
Peale. (Fairly tearing his hair) Oh, what’s the use! He’s the old school—we’re new blood. (Coming to L. of C.)
Rodney. (With enthusiasm) Youth has got it on old age.
Mary. (Coming down between Peale and Rodney) You bet it has!
Martin. When you boys get through talking and you’re flat broke and down and out, come around and see me: I’ll show you an old business that has a lot of money that isn’t radical and manages to keep going without wasting a fortune in fool advertising.
Rodney. Then you won’t let us get any soap.