Kate. Without an instant's hesitation, and I would never be a dependent burden on him! Oh! mother, can you not see how much of the misery in the world is caused by the way girls are educated, in helpless dependence, often obliged to sell themselves to the first man who offers, because they cannot support themselves? Do not condemn me to such a fate. Give me a chance to be independent of all such considerations in my choice of a husband. Mrs. G. (with impatient gesture). Nonsense. You are crazy. Alice. The best thing you can do, Kate, is to set your cap for Dr. Endicott. Kate. I am very much mistaken in Dr. Endicott if he would deign to notice a woman who had stooped to set her cap. (Sits L. C.) Mrs. G. (sighing). I am sure I do not know what will become of you with such ideas. Mr. G. (outside). Where is Eugene? I want him. Mrs. G. Hush! here comes your father. Alice (starting up from reclining position). Oh, mother! _do_ try to get some money of him for a new ball dress. Mine are shameful! Mrs. G. I will do my best, but it is hard work. I hope you may never know how hard when you have a husband of your own. (Enter Mr. Grovenor, C., his hands full of papers, bills, etc.) Mr. G. (very crossly). Where is that boy? What do these bills mean? The expenses of this house _must_ be cut down. Do you think I am made of money, Mrs. Grovenor? Mrs. G. (timidly). I am very sorry. I am sure I do the best I can. Mr. G. (sitting R. of table and looking over bills). I think you would find a way to be more economical if you had to earn the money you spent. It's a pity you women did not have to do it once in a while, and then you would know how good it was. Kate (leaning on table, earnestly). That is just what I wish to do, father. Give me the chance and I will relieve you of the burden of my support. Mr. G. (staring at his own papers). You would do fine things, I dare say. I do not believe you know exactly what you are talking about, but then a woman never does. Now, for instance, how long do you suppose it would take you to earn that dress you have on, at women's average wages? Kate. I could wear a cheaper dress, if need be. I am aware that men, in whose hands now rests the power, show their boasted "chivalry" to the so-called "weaker sex" by paying her half they pay a man for the same work. Mr. G. (dropping papers angrily). What confounded folly you talk! If a woman did her work as well as a man she would get the same wages; but she does not. She isn't thinking of her work. When she is young she is thinking of getting married, when she is old she is mad because she can't. Kate (with dignity). Pardon me, father, but I think it is you who are talking folly. Mr. G. Humph! I suppose you would like to vote? Kate. I see no reason why I should not. Mr. G. (rises and looks her over, then looks at Mrs. G.) What kind of sentiments have you instilled into your eldest daughter, Mrs. Grovenor?