[DAWKER grins and produces the document.]
It's mighty near conspiracy, this. Have ye got a Testament?
MRS. H. My word will be enough, Mr. Hornblower.
HORNBLOWER. Ye'll pardon me—I can't make it solemn enough for you.
MRS. H. Very well; here is a Bible.
[She takes a small Bible from the bookshelf.]
DAWKER. [Spreading document on bureau] This is a short conveyance of the Centry and Longmeadow—recites sale to you by Miss Mulling, of the first, John Hillcrist of the second, and whereas you have agreed for the sale to said John Hillcrist, for the sum of four thousand five hundred pounds, in consideration of the said sum, receipt whereof, you hereby acknowledge you do convey all that, etc. Sign here. I'll witness.
HORNBLOWER [To MRS. HILLCRIST] Take that Book in your hand, and swear first. I swear by Almighty God never to breathe a word of what I know concerning Chloe Hornblower to any living soul.
MRS. H. No, Mr. Hornblower; you will please sign first. We are not in the habit of breaking our word.
[HORNBLOWER after a furious look at them, seizes a pen, runs
his eye again over the deed, and signs, DAWKER witnessing.]