Smith. If it was a new club or some tomfoolery, in a minute—but to put money into your business—it’d be just throwing it away. Why don’t you get your father to back you?

Rodney. Father and I don’t agree on the value of advertising.

Smith. Oh, that’s it, and you expect me to do what your father won’t?

Rodney. Well, I thought as a friend of the family——

Smith. You were wrong. Where is your father?

Rodney. In there, I guess. (Indicating door lower L.)

Smith. I’ll bet he’ll think this as funny as I do. (He exits L. Rodney sinks down dejectedly into a chair. Peale enters with contracts)

Peale. Well?

Rodney. (Rises) He wouldn’t give me a cent.

Peale. He wouldn’t? Well, he sounds like your father’s oldest friend.