RAT. More than you imagine, my dear madam, for I propose that you shall become my partner in this speculation; in other words, I will find the industry and energy requisite in carrying it into effect, while you _simply have to provide the money._ (_with marked emphasis_) MRS. S. (_indignantly_) Sir! RAT. That's all! I'll therefore make out a receipt for the amount at once. (_taking a piece of paper, and beginning to write_) MRS. S. (_aside, and looking towards the back of the stage_) That bell communicates with David's room; it is my only hope. (_cautiously rises from her chair, and goes on tiptoe towards the chimney-piece_) POS. (_appearing at little window above door at R. C._) I should very much like to know who has taken the liberty of locking me in! I repeat, who has taken the liberty of locking me in? I pause for a reply. MRS. S. (_looking at RATCLIFFE, who pretends to be writing, but is watching her movements--then making a sudden grasp at the bell rope_) Ah! the bell rope cut! RAT. (_quietly looking up_) Yes, true! I quite forgot to mention that I had taken that _little precaution_ against interruption. (_resumes his writing_) POS. (_listening_) Holloa! Either cousin Somerton has got a very bad cold, or she's not alone! RAT. Here, madam, is the receipt. (_rising_) POS. That's a man's voice! RAT. And now, madam, the necessary forms being completed on my part, all that remains is for you to find the funds; amounting, as I believe I mentioned before, to the sum of fifteen thousand pounds. MRS. S. (_forcing a laugh_) And do you imagine I could be imprudent enough to keep so large a sum of money----? RAT. On your person? Oh, dear no; that would be an indiscretion for which, as your partner, I should certainly take the liberty of scolding you. POS. What's that? he says he's my wife's partner! I never even knew she was in business. RAT. Until you could deposit it with your banker's, you have, doubtless, placed it somewhere under lock and key; but as you seem to have forgotten the exact locality, I shall be most happy to assist you in your search. Suppose we begin with the writing desk. (_placing his hand on the desk_) Will you oblige me with the key? POS. The fellow's a housebreaker! MRS. S. I--I have mislaid or lost it, sir: at least, I think I have. RAT. Pray _think_ again, my dear madam, as it would be really a pity to damage so elegant a piece of furniture. POS. No--he's a smasher! It's lucky for him I can't get at him. MRS. S. (_suddenly, and with resolution_) Sir, although alone, and in the power of a desperate man like you, I will not be plundered except by violence. POS. That's right, cousin--stick to that! She's a trump! RAT. (_approaching her as she leans against table in C., and in a tone of reproach_) Violence to a woman, and _such a woman!_ (_bowing_) POS. Humbug!