GER. I can't imagine, I'm sure.

EST. I should like to know more about him. He was never raised in the
slums, I feel certain.

GER. Steve O'Hagen. The name sounds Irish.

EST. I don't think he's Irish. He's dark and strange- looking . . .
almost uncanny.

GER. I shall go down there and hear him the first chance I get. And
now, I guess I'd best get out, if I want to dodge old Plimpton.

EST. Yes . . . and Rutherford, too. Isn't it a bore! I think they are
perfectly odious people.

GER. Why do you suppose mother invited them?

EST. Oh, it's a business affair . . . they have forced their way into
some deal of father's, and so we have to cultivate them.

GER. Plimpton, the coal baron! And Rutherford, the steel king! I
wonder how many hundred millions of dollars we shall have to have
before we can choose our guests for something more interesting than
their Wall Street connections!

EST. I think I hear them. [Listens.] Yes . . . the voice. [Mocking
PLIMPTON'S manner and tone.] Good evening, Miss Isman. I guess I'll
skip it!