Mr. Posket. I am afraid, Colonel Lukyn, it will be necessary even here to preserve strictly our unfortunate relative positions. [Lukyn bows.] Sit down. [Lukyn sits again. Posket takes up the charge sheet.] Colonel Lukyn! In addressing you now, I am speaking, not as a man, but, as an instrument of the law. As a man I may, or may not, be a weak, vicious, despicable creature.

Lukyn. Certainly—of course.

Mr. Posket. But, as a magistrate I am bound to say you fill me with pain and astonishment.

Lukyn. Quite right—every man to his trade, go on, Posket.

Mr. Posket. [Turning his chair to face Lukyn.] Alexander Lukyn—when I look at you—when I look at you—— [He attempts to put on his spectacles.] Ah—my nose. [To Lukyn.] I say, when I look at you, Alexander Lukyn, I confront a most mournful