Lawrence almost audibly gulped at the sudden and somewhat awkward silence that fell over the group. Yet, he was determined to press this matter until he had the lord's blessing. He cleared his throat lightly and put down the drink he had been offered.<br/><br/>"That question could be taken two different ways, and for my part I'd like to answer both. Firstly, I make the request because your daughter is remarkable. She is a jewel the outshines any treasure in the world. And as quickly as this conversation became the center of attention, I'd venture to guess that everyone in ear shot knows how precious she is. Secondly, I bring the request to you, out of respect. Respect to her virtue, I would never be so bold as to assume she would honor my request to see her socially, without coming to you first. Respect to you, I would be ashamed to do anything behind your back sir. She is your daughter, you have a right to know my intentions. And respect to your family. I would be speaking to you about your daughter no matter who you might be, but I don't mean any disrespect when I say I do not care that she is a LaVelle. In short, I make the request because I would not be able to forgive myself if I did not. And I bring it to you, because I feel it would be improper not to."