Cicely [gathering up wreaths]. Oh, Rafe, 'tis a wonderful fine plan!
Allison. Thou'lt let me come too, Rafe?
Rafe. We'll all go. S-sh-sh, now, not a whisper to anyone. [Exeunt children in great excitement. Short pause. Enter Rufus, secretly (L.), stopping to look about and listen. Crosses furtively to door (R.) and looks out. Enter Phyllis (L.), and as Rufus turns back into room, she sees him, and with a low cry hurries to meet him.]
Phyllis. Oh, Rufus, Rufus—not you!
Rufus. Yes, 'tis I, fair cousin. I prithee speak softly. I would not have it known as yet that I am here.
Phyllis. But whence came you, Rufus? We thought you miles away, with the King's troops——
Rufus. My company made a secret march, across this valley, and I thought to spend Christmas in mine own dear home. My Captain gave me leave to come here to-night, and join him to-morrow eve. But after I set out on my solitary march, a company of Roundhead rebels sprang up from a copse by the way and gave chase to our men.
Phyllis. How knew you this?
Rufus. I had come but a half-hour's walk, up the long hill, and saw it all quite plainly.
Phyllis [much troubled]. But, Rufus, then you are cut off from the King's men, for there be very many rebels and few loyal hearts about us, in these parts.