[It is soon seen that Bess speaks truly. Mistress Endicott makes her entrance seated on a pine board that is carried between Robin Wakeless and Kit Carmel. She is closely guarded by Jock, who marches behind. Scarlett and Will Lackleather carry her spinning-wheel. Faunch brings up the rear, with the Merrymount maidens following. Joan carries a spinning-stool.
SCARLETT
(as he and Lackleather set down spinning-wheel, left).
Look to your steps, Robin! Steady there, Kit Carmel! (As Resolute stands, center, he approaches her with elaborate mocking courtesy.) Mistress, we bid you welcome to Merrymount!
ROBIN.
What will you have, Mistress Endicott? A merry stave, a cup of cherry wine, or a maypole dance? Speak, and we do' your pleasure!
SCARLETT
(to Sarah).
Rouse our gran'am, sister. Sure, such a sight as this will warm her bones! (To Resolute, indicating Bess.) See! There is one of our number who hath been royally entertained by your townsfolk. We are minded to do the same by you! (To the others.) Come, we'll spread a feast for Mistress Endicott. Empty your traps, Robin! Bring on your game, Will Lackleather! We'll show how Merrymount can sup when it has a mind!
JOAN
(aside: outraged).
What! Waste our substance on a Puritan?
KIT CARMEL.