The Widowing of Mrs. Holroyd: A Drama in Three Acts

by D. H. Lawrence

CLARA

What do you say, Laura—are you having a drop?

LAURA (submissively, and naturally tongue-tied)

Well—I don't mind—I will if you do.

CLARA (recklessly)

I think we'll 'ave a drop, Charlie, an' risk it. It'll 'appen hold the rest down.

[There is a moment of silence, while Holroyd goes into the scullery. Clara surveys the room and the dramatic pose of Mrs. Holroyd curiously.

HOLROYD (suddenly)

Heh! What, come 'ere—!

[There is a smash of pots, and a rat careers out of the scullery. Laura, the first to see it, utters a scream, but is fastened to her chair, unable to move.