Rowland's refusal to testify

Mr. Meyer, realizing that Rowland's testimony is crucial to voiding the insurance, tries to secure his cooperation. However, Rowland refuses to testify, stating that he will not break the child. He argues that the cause of the wreck was full speed in a fog, and the underwriters knew the risk. He and Captain Barry leave the office, with Mr. Meyer locked in a futile rage. This decision spares the child from financial ruin but puts Rowland at odds with the powerful underwriters.