How we cite our quotes: Act.Scene.Line
Quote #7
ROMA: It's not me that ripped the joint off, I'm doing business. I'll be with you in a while. (2.1.850-851)
Gotta love this quote. Business trumps the law, folks, and there is no question in Roma's mind about that. We hinted at it earlier, but this is Roma just saying it straight out. Some people put God first, others keep their country on top, and some hold law and order in high esteem, but all of that takes a back seat to business for Roma. Say what you will, but this take on the world has worked out for Roma. After all, he's top man on the board.
Quote #8
ROMA: I'm talking to Mr. Lingk. If you please, I'll be back in. (Checks his watch.) I'll be back in a while. (2.1.917-918)
Wow—this just keeps getting better. Now Roma isn't just snubbing his nose at the rules (of the police, mind you), he's just going to take off for a bit to keep trying to save his sale. The only rules that matter right now are the rules of business.
Quote #9
WILLIAMSON: You've got a big mouth, and now I'm going to show you an even bigger one. (Starts toward the Detective's door). (2.1.1111-1115)
It takes a guy who loves order like Williamson to respect order. It also takes a guy who doesn't spend his time mocking the law to know that the law can bring Levene down. These guys can talk and talk and talk about business, but all the talking in the world won't get Levene out of this one.