GRIMES. To turn tail and run from his enemies?
LAURA. It is of my duty to the public that I am thinking, Mr. Grimes.
GRIMES. You owe no duty to this world higher than your duty to your father.
LAURA. You think that?
GRIMES. I think it.
LAURA. [Hesitates a moment, then turns.] Father! What do you say? Is that true?
HEGAN. [Crushed.] I don't know, my dear.
GRIMES. God Almighty! And this is Jim Hegan! [To LAURA.] Where'd you get onto these ideas, ma'am?
LAURA. [In a low voice.] I think, Mr. Grimes, it might be best if you did not ask me to discuss this question. Our points of view are too different.
GRIMES. [Shrugs his shoulders.] As you please, ma'am. But you needn't mind me... I ain't easy to offend. And I'm only trying to understand you.