WHITE. (coming forward, C.) Well, father-in-law, I hope you are satisfied now!
DE W. Mr. Pawkins, I have an apology to make to you—you’ll think it very absurd—but I—I—ha, ha!—I scarcely know how to express it—but I actually took you for a thief!
PAWKINS. (L. C.) You ain’t the first, else I shouldn’t have been tried at the Hold Bailey this morning. Look ye—a fellow chucks a watch into my umbrella——
WHITE. (C.) Yes, yes, we know all about that; besides, you are completely cleared.
DE W. (R.) Perfectly; your character is as cloudless as a fine day in July, and I am about to give you the most convincing proof of my confidence.
PAWKINS. (aside) He’s going to ask me to shave him!
DE W. (crossing to C.) I have long been looking out for a man of indubitable integrity, to act as my cashier; I keep nearly the whole of my fortune locked up in a strong box, so I may as well give you the key now. (about to give key, WHITEWASH hastily comes between them)
WHITE. (C., intercepting) No! no! what are you about? A thief!—a common pickpocket!
DE W. (R.) Ha, ha! victory!—you admit it, do you?
(retires to GUESTS, R.)