(She takes the teapot from the cupboard and is about to shatter it on the hearth when Mandy springs forward.)
Mandy. Oh, missy, don’ smash de little teapot! Give it to old Mandy.
(She holds out her hands for it. Miss B. puts the pot into them. Mandy clasps it to her breast.)
Miss B. Well, take it and get you to the kitchen. You can brew naught but “Liberty Tea” in it now.
(Mandy starts to go but is loath to lose any of the conversation, so lingers by the door at L.)
Judge. Lavinia, it rejoices me that you so heartily embrace the glorious cause of independence. ’Tis noble——
Miss B. Say not so, Stephen. You must, in your heart, despise me for my weakness.
Judge. Despise you! I could not. Come, tell me. Were you about to journey to Boston in my behalf?
Miss B. Yes, I had so purposed. I would have wrested you from prison and execution, if need be!
Judge. What a friend you are, Lavinia!