ACT IV.
[SCENE I.]—O’Dedimus’s office—Enter Charles pulling in Ponder by the collar.
Char. This way, sirrah, this way, and now out with your confession, if you expect mercy at my hands.
Pon. I will, sir, I will: but I expect no mercy at your hands, for you’ve already handled me most unmercifully—(Charles shakes him) what would you please to have me confess, sir?
Char. I have seen old Abel Grouse—he has told me the story of his daughter’s marriage with this amiable cousin of mine: now, sirrah, confess the truth—were you present, or were you not? out with it (shakes him).
Pon. Now pray recollect yourself—do, sir—think a little.
Char. Recollect myself?
Pon. Ay, sir, if you will but take time to reflect, you’ll give me time to collect my scattered thoughts, which you have completely shaken out of my pericranium.
Char. No equivocation, answer directly, or though you’re no longer my servant, by heavens I’ll—