HEGAN. Why, Laura! I am a Democrat. Surely I have a right to support
my party!

LAURA. [Quickly.] Have you ever contributed to the Republican campaign
funds?

HEGAN. [Disconcerted; laughs.] Why . . . really . . .

LAURA. Please answer me.

HEGAN. I am a Gold Democrat, my dear.

LAURA. I see. [She Pauses.] You put Mr. Grimes in the way of making a
great deal of money, do you not?

HEGAN. I do that.

LAURA. He is interested in companies that you give contracts to?

HEGAN. Really! You seem to be informed about my affairs!

LAURA. I have taken some trouble to inform myself. Father, don't you
realize what it means to corrupt the government of the city in this
way?

HEGAN. Corrupt the government, my dear?

LAURA. Does not Grimes have the nominating of judges and legislators?