RAT. Why, unfortunately Mrs. Somerton is unable to give me the slightest clue.
MRS. S. But I do possess a clue—a certain infallible one.
POS. Ah!—then where is your clue—produce your clue—what is your clue?
MRS. S. (looking intently at RATCLIFFE) A paper in the handwriting of this bold and impudent villain, (RATCLIFFE slightly starts) treating the matter as a commercial transaction, and affecting to acknowledge as a voluntary loan from me the amount of which he plundered me.
RAT. (quickly) A most important document indeed, and of the utmost consequence that I should obtain immediate possession of it.
MRS. S. (sarcastically) I believe you, sir; shall I fetch it?
RAT. Certainly.
MRS. S. And you will remain here till I return? (significantly)
RAT. Assuredly.
MRS. S. (hastily—aside to POSTLETHWAITE) See that he does.