HILDA (touching the torn pages of his speech and smiling). Here is your answer to your own question.
WHITE. Oh, that was all theory. We're in now. You say yourself we can't oppose it. Isn't it better if we try to direct the current to our own ends rather than sink by trying to swim against it?
HILDA. Oh, yes; it would be easier for one who could compromise.
WHITE. But haven't we radicals been too intolerant of compromise?
HILDA. That has been your strength. And it is your strength I'm relying on now that Wallace—Shall I call him?
WHITE (significantly). No; wait.
HILDA (apprehensive at his turn). Oh, yes. Before he came you said there was something—(The phone rings. They both look at it.) That's for you.
WHITE (not moving). Yes.
HILDA hardly believing his attititde). Is—is it private?
WHITE. No. Perhaps it will be easier this way. (He hesitates, then goes to phone as she stands expectant.) Yes. Yes. Long Distance? Washington? (Her lips repeat the word.) Yes. This is William White. Hello. Yes. Is this the Secretary speaking? Oh, I appreciate the honor of having you confirm it personally. Senator Bough is chairman? At his request? Ah, yes; war makes strange bedfellows. Yes. The passport and credentials? Oh, I'll be ready. Yes. Good-bye.