RAT. Nay, 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.
POS. Certainly not. I'd rather mince him. Fifteen thousand pounds is a
lump of money.
RAT. (_with pretended astonishment_) Fifteen thousand pounds--the
unconscionable scoundrel!--one moment (_writing in the pocket
book_)--amount stolen--fifteen thousand pounds; number of robbers----
POS. (_aside to him_) Uncertain! as there seems to be a little
difference of opinion between cousin and me upon that point. You'd
better say "uncertain."
RAT. (_to MRS. S._) Bank notes, I presume?
MRS. S. Yes, sir--bank notes.
RAT. And contained in that writing desk.
MRS. S. (_aside_) 'Tis he, I'm sure of it (_hastily and aside to
POSTLETHWAITE, while RATCLIFFE is examining the writing desk_)--tell
me, do you say you know him?
POS. Who, the housebreaker?