Law. (Hardening, short pause, then with effort.) Daughter, why do you wring my heart like this? That name is forbidden in this house.
Flo. But Herbert is your son and my brother.
Law. No, I have no son and you have no brother. He disgraced us and then robbed us. He sent your mother to her grave. (With feeling.) He is dead.
Flo. But if he were not dead?
Law. I know what you mean. But he is dead to us. I had some months ago a letter from him which I burned unopened. I’ve heard enough of his pretended repentance.
Flo. Oh papa—
Law. Has he written to you?
Flo. He only begs forgiveness. He does not ask for money.
Law. Florence, I forbid you to communicate with him or speak his name. If he comes back here the prison is ready for him. Flossie, no disobedience, remember.
Flo. Where are you going, papa?