MRS. S. (_aside_) That voice again--I must be mistaken--yet, every
word he utters--(_looking again fixedly at RATCLIFFE_)
RAT. (_C., to MRS. S._) You have not answered my question, madam.
MRS. S. I can only say, sir, that on being left alone, I was disturbed
by a slight noise, and on turning round, he stood before me--as you
do.
RAT. A bold and impudent villain, evidently. I can easily conceive
your alarm, madam, but luckily your cousin here on hearing your
piercing shrieks, (_POSTLETHWAITE pulls his coat tail_) rushes to your
assistance, and with one blow of his masculine fist--
POS. (_stopping him, and aside_) That'll do--don't remind her of that
terrific scene, it distresses her.
RAT. (_smiling again_) True. (_to MRS. S._) Then, madam, you would
probably be able to identify this audacious criminal?
MRS. S. (_with intention_) Not with absolute certainty, sir.
POS. No, more should I.
RAT. That's strange too, considering the length of time you were
struggling with him.
POS. Yes, yes. (_aside to him_) That'll do--she can't bear it.
MRS. S. (_still with intention_) And were I to act upon my present
_suspicions,_ however well grounded they may appear, I might be the
means of compromising--
RAT. Who, madam?