Scene: Kitchen in Mistress Goodspeede's cottage, a simple and bare little room. Open fireplace[22] [R.], with exit beside it supposed to lead to loft. Back R., door; L., window, opening upon a desolate winter scene. L., door, leading to another chamber. Down L., a spinning-wheel. Furniture, a few plain chairs and stools, and a settle. By the window a table where little Prudence and Patience are washing the supper dishes. Patience stands upon a stool in order to reach the dishpan more easily, Prudence wipes the dishes and lays them on the table.
Patience [severely]. Prudence, if thee's not very careful, I know thee'll drop the platter!
Prudence. Oh, no! Patience, I'm being very careful. I wouldn't let it drop for anything. It's Mother's very best platter, too.
Patience. And if thee broke it, who knows if dear Mother could ever get a new one? She hath told me many a time she brought it with her from Old England, and she saith the like cannot be found here—even in Boston town.
Prudence [gives it an admiring look, then lays it cautiously on the table]. I'm sure it's the most beautiful platter that ever was seen. Are there many more dishes, Patience, dear?
Patience [in a motherly tone]. No. Poor little maid, I fear me thou'rt very weary. Here—just these cups, and I'll help thee. [Gets down from stool and helps to wipe one or two cups.] Where are the boys, I wonder? You and I, Prudence, can never, never reach to put the dishes away on the shelf.
Prudence. No, but brother Roger or Myles can do it. Mother says they grow like tall weeds.
Patience. And the parson says they are brave striplings. [Sighs.] I would I were tall and strong. Then I should never be afraid of——
Prudence [looks fearfully over her shoulder]. Afraid of what, Patience?
Patience [putting her arm around Prudence]. Oh, never mind, Prudence, dear, not afraid of, of—anything.