POS. (pulling him back) You can’t till your successor is appointed.
RAT. (aside) There’s no escape, I must brazen it out: lucky I have got rid of my disguise, at any rate I shall see her once more! (aloud, and in an assumed tone of authority) ahem! (seats himself) now I am ready to listen to you.
POS. (L.) That’s right—you must know then. (seats himself)
RAT. (R.) One moment, are you about to address me in my official capacity?
POS. Of course, I am.
RAT. Then don’t sit down.
POS. But really my back aches to that degree—
RAT. Then I’ll receive your deposition to-morrow. (gets up and going)
POS. No, no! (pushing RATCLIFFE in his chair again) I’ll stand up there! and now, my dear fellow—