Just. What, contradict me again, after I gave you time to recollect yourself! I’ve done with you; I have done. Contradict me as often as you please, but you cannot impose upon me; I defy you to impose upon me!
Old M. Impose!
Just. I know the law!—I know the law!—and I’ll make you know it, too. One hour I’ll give you to recollect yourself, and if you don’t give up this idle story, I’ll—I’ll commit you as a vagrant—that’s poz! Go, go, for the present. William, take him into the servants’ hall, do you hear?—What, take the money and leave the box? I’ll never do it—that’s poz!
(Lucy speaks to the Old Man as he is going off.)
Lucy. Don’t be frightened! don’t be frightened!—I mean, you tell the truth, never be frightened.
Old M. If I tell the truth—(turning up his eyes).
(Old Man is still held back by the young lady.)
Lucy. One moment—answer me one question—because of something that just came into my head. Was the box shut fast when you left it?
Old M. No, miss, no!—open—it was open; for I could not find the lid in the dark—my candle went out. If I tell the truth—oh!
(Exit.)