MRS. S. Why not? So bold and impudent a villain, as you very properly designate him. How fortunate it was that I remembered the existence of that “important paper.”
RAT. Yes, it was a very brilliant idea of yours, indeed.
MRS. S. And how still more fortunate that Colonel Boldwig at once recognised the handwriting, for of course it will infallibly lead to the capture of the unconscionable scoundrel, as you very properly called him.
RAT. (rather nettled) You seem remarkably anxious to punish this unhappy misguided being, ma’am.
MRS. S. Heyday! did you not say to me, just now, “Madam, as the representative of the law, I tell you that it matters not what his social position may be; we must not mince matters.” (imitating RATCLIFFE’S manner.)
RAT. (aside) She’s laughing at me, that’s quite clear. (aloud) Of course not; but—but—(drawing his chair closer to MRS. SOMERTON)—but—(aside) Pon my life it requires more courage than I imagined. (aloud) I was about to observe that the circumstances attending this robbery are so—so whimsical.
MRS. S. Whimsical?
RAT. No, not whimsical, eccentric! that one is almost inclined to ascribe it to some other motive.
MRS. S. (aside) We are coming to it by degrees; (aloud) and pray, sir, what other motive can your lively imagination suggest?
RAT. (drawing still nearer, and after a short hesitation, then in a low and impassioned tone) Love!