LAURA. [With intensity.] Father, you must understand me! I will not be
trifled with . . . I am in desperate earnest! I am determined to get
to the bottom of this thing! I am no longer a child, and you must not
try to deceive me! Mr. Grimes must get some of that money!

HEGAN. I think it possible, my dear.

LAURA. And do you get any?

HEGAN. Good God, Laura!

LAURA. Then what is the nature of your relationship with Grimes?

HEGAN. Really, my child, this is not fair of you. I have business
connections which you cannot possibly understand . . .

LAURA. I can understand everything that you are willing for me to
understand! I want to know why you must have business connections with
a man like Boss Grimes.

HEGAN. My dear, I think you might take your father's word in such a
case. It has nothing to do with vice, I can assure you. Grimes is a
business ally of mine. He is a rich man, a great power in New
York . . .

LAURA. Do you help to keep him a power in New York?

HEGAN. Why, I don't know . . .

LAURA. Do you contribute to his campaign funds?