ions of my own, had 'em for
years. If I hadn't, no money of yours would buy me. I believe the people
want this war to settle once and for all whether that wishy-washy King
or us is going to direct the universe, and if the people want it, it's
my business to see that they get it. If that means any money in your
pocket, it's none of my business. But I'm not your slave, Grosvenor. And
don't you forget it.

GROSVENOR

You'll keep me posted? If anything goes wrong, I've got to have time to
get from under. You'll surely keep me posted?

TANEY

Get your man Maynard on the string. I'm hanged if I'll be your office
boy.

GROSVENOR

[_Beseechingly._

Taney--

[TANEY _goes out._ GROSVENOR _takes a step toward the
door, stops, and drawing a cigar from his pocket, begins chewing the end
nervously. Then he turns quickly, and crossing to the right, picks up
the telephone instrument again._

Office of the "Morning Bulletin," please.

[_Pause._

Mr. Pollen, please. Out? This is Mr. Grosvenor. On his way to the Club?
Thanks.

[MR. CONROY _enters, right. He is a short, stockily-built man
with a belligerent chin covered by a close-cropped, grizzled beard._

CONROY

Hello, Grosvenor.

[_With a sharp glance and not entirely pleasant smile._

I might have known that I'd find you on the job. What is it this
time--canned goods, uniforms, hospital supplies--or just general
enthusiasm?

GROSVENOR

A little business, but mainly enthusiasm. A great time to be alive,
Conroy! Any news?

CONROY

Maynard's making a rousing speech. Spread eagle. Our honor as a nation.
The dearest, sweetest flag that ever waved over a noble, invincible
people. Damned rot. But the brethren from the rural districts lap it up
like cider in October. He's gaining votes. Protege of yours, ain't he?

GROSVENOR

Yes. Used to be my office boy. Clever chap. Has a sensible view of
things. Realizes that our national honor and our property must be
defended at all hazards.

CONROY

[_Sitting down at the desk and beginning to write. With a cynical
laugh._

You mean _property_. You don't give a damn about national _honor_. You
know you don't. What's the use of trying to fool me?

GROSVENOR

Conroy, do you mean to impugn my patriotic motives?

CONROY

[_Without looking up, good-naturedly._

Grosvenor, we've known each other thirty years. I don't try to bluff you
because I know that you know too much about me. You made the