Having vented his grievances he sits down to recover. Blackborough takes advantage of the ensuing pause.
Blackborough. It isn't so easy for me to speak against Trebell, since he evidently dislikes me personally as much as I dislike him ... but I'm sure I'm doing my duty. Horsham ... here you have Cantelupe who won't stand in with the man, and Percival who won't stand in with his measure, while I would sooner stand in with neither. Isn't it better to face the situation now than take trouble to form the most makeshift of Cabinets, and if that doesn't go to pieces, be voted down in the House by your own party?
There is an oppressive silence, Horsham is sulky. The matter is beyond Farrant. Cantelupe whose agonies have expressed themselves in slight writhings, at last, with an effort, writhes himself to his feet.
Cantelupe. I think I am prepared to reconsider my decision.
Farrant. That's all right then!
He looks round wonderingly for the rest of the chorus to find that neither Blackborough nor Horsham have stirred.
Blackborough. [Stealthily.] Is it, Horsham?
Horsham. [Sotto voce.] Why did you ever make it?
Blackborough leaves him for Cantelupe.
Blackborough. You're afraid for the integrity of the bill.