blackborough. So it isn't favourable to your remaining with us, Mr. Trebell.

farrant. [Indignantly emerging from the trap.] I never said that.

Now trebell gives the matter another turn, very forcefully.

trebell. Horsham . . I don't bow politely and stand aside at this juncture as a gentleman should, because I want to know how the work's to be done if I leave you what I was to do.

blackborough. Are we so incompetent?

trebell. I daresay not. I want to know . . that's all.

cantelupe. Please understand, Mr. Trebell, that I have in no way altered my good opinion of your proposals.

blackborough. Well, I beg to remind you, Horsham, that from the first I've reserved myself liberty to criticise fundamental points in the scheme.

horsham. [Pacifically.] Quite so . . quite so.

blackborough. That nonsensical new standard of teachers' salaries for one thing . . you'd never pass it.