Phyllis. Nay, nay—I may not speak of it. My aunt will be sore displeased.
[Enter Lady Katherine.
Lady Katherine [in doorway]. Phyllis, why art idling here with the children? To thy tasks, girl!
[Exit.
Phyllis [turning hastily to follow]. You see, sweethearts, I must not tarry. But I wish good speed to your garlands. Farewell. [Exit.]
Cicely. Thou dost see, Rafe. Father will not let us speak of brother Rufus, and Mother is so cross to poor cousin Phyllis.
Allison [shocked]. Nay, Cicely; Mother isn't cross. It's naughty to say that.
Rafe. I think I know what it is all about. [Very confidentially. Girls draw their chairs close.] I think brother Rufus ran away to the wars to fight for the King——
Cicely. But, Rafe, that can't be what displeaseth Father, for Father is a soldier, too, and he himself will fight for our lord the King, if so be the King needeth him.
Allison [nodding her head with conviction]. Father is the most gallantest soldier in all the country.