Quite so. But at least, it's better than nothing

Amanda Minchin:

Please be seated, Mr. Barrow. Mr. Barrows:
How much did you advance for this party? Quite a sum, I suspect? Amanda Minchin:
What does it matter? Captain Crewe is a very wealthy man. His check will be here shortly. Mr. Barrows:
No, Miss Minchin. There'll be no check. Amanda Minchin:
What? What do you mean by that? Mr. Barrows:
The late Captain Crewe. Amanda Minchin:
The late Captain Crewe? Mr. Barrows:
Captain Crewe is dead. He was so reported in the list this morning. Moreover, he died a bankrupt. Amanda Minchin:
Bankrupt? But, his property and his mines! Mr. Barrows:
His property and his mines were confiscated by the enemy. Amanda Minchin:
You mean to tell me that the child is penniless, and she's left on my hands with nothing? Mr. Barrows:
She's certainly left penniless, and She's certainly left on your hands. She hasn't a relative in the world that we know of. Amanda Minchin:
But her father's account is overdrawn. I was expecting a check in advance, the money for this party. Mr. Barrows:
So, I understand. Amanda Minchin:
But, this is monstrous. [20 seconds later] Amanda Minchin:
I'll turn her out in the streets. Mr. Barrows:
Do you think that wise, Miss Minchin? The reputation of your school, you know? Amanda Minchin:
My school? Mr. Barrows:
Well, the report might get about. And it might not sound well to the parents of some your other pupils. Amanda Minchin:
Yes, that is so. Mr. Barrows:
Of course. The child could be made to serve in your employ until her indebtedness is worked out. Amanda Minchin:
But, that would take years. Mr. Barrows:
Quite so. But at least, it's better than nothing