then she sinks, checkmated, into her chair. Richard goes boldly
up past Anderson to the window, where he takes the railed chair
in his hand.) Ladies and gentlemen: as the eldest son of my late
father, and the unworthy head of this household, I bid you
welcome. By your leave, Minister Anderson: by your leave, Lawyer
Hawkins. The head of the table for the head of the family. (He
places the chair at the table between the minister and the
attorney; sits down between them; and addresses the assembly with
a presidential air.) We meet on a melancholy occasion: a father
dead! an uncle actually hanged, and probably damned. (He shakes
his head deploringly. The relatives freeze with horror.) That's
right: pull your longest faces (his voice suddenly sweetens
gravely as his glance lights on Essie) provided only there is
hope in the eyes of the child. (Briskly.) Now then, Lawyer
Hawkins: business, business. Get on with the will, man.

TITUS. Do not let yourself be ordered or hurried, Mr. Hawkins.

HAWKINS (very politely and willingly). Mr. Dudgeon means no
offence, I feel sure. I will not keep you one second, Mr.
Dudgeon. Just while I get my glasses--(he fumbles for them. The
Dudgeons look at one another with misgiving).

RICHARD. Aha! They notice your civility, Mr. Hawkins. They are
prepared for the worst. A glass of wine to clear your voice
before you begin. (He pours out one for him and hands it; then
pours one for himself.)

HAWKINS. Thank you, Mr. Dudgeon. Your good health, sir.