LAURA. I am here to plead with my father to turn back from this wickedness.
GRIMES. [Stares.] And do what, ma'am?
LAURA. Quit Wall Street, and devote himself to some useful work.
GRIMES. [After a pause.] And if he won't?
LAURA. I have told him he must choose between his present career and his daughter's love.
GRIMES. [Gazes at LAURA, then in front of him; slowly shakes his head.] I can't make out our young people. When I was a boy, young women looked up to their parents. What's your father done to you, that you should turn against him?
LAURA. I have not turned against him, Mr. Grimes.
GRIMES. [Indicating HEGAN, who sits in an attitude of despair.] Look at him!
[A pause.]
LAURA. I am pleading with him for his own good... to give up this cruel struggle...