Lady K. Oh, my poor lad.
Sir G. Thou and Phyllis need not grieve so foolishly——
Lady K. [stiffens angrily]. Phyllis! She is the one reason why I am reconciled to his being away.
Sir G. [more gently]. Come, good wife, be not so hard upon poor Phyllis. She's a good maid and a fair. What if the lad have turned her head a bit? I would fain have thee remember the lass is an orphan and we her only kinsfolk.
Lady K. [moving away]. I care not to talk of Phyllis. [Turns back.] Will nothing move you, my lord?
Sir G. [hardening]. I've told you my mind—let's hear no more of this. [Exeunt (L.). Rufus comes from hiding-place and stands sadly by fire. Enter Phyllis.]
Rufus [turning toward her]. Why, Phyllis, I little guessed my father could be so hard and stern. I knew I had displeased him, but this passeth belief.
Phyllis. He is very unforgiving. When you called this house a safe harbor, you little knew.
Rufus [turning as if to go]. So be it, then. If my father cannot forgive me,—I'll e'en forth to the tender mercies of mine enemies.
Phyllis [alarmed]. Oh, no, no, Rufus! At least do not venture forth until the dark hath come! No one must see you here. Come into the blue guest chamber. 'Tis not a secure hiding-place should the house be searched, but 'twill serve for the time, and by midnight you may steal away safely. Do come, Rufus! [He lets her half lead, half push him out as she talks. Exeunt (R.). Pause—— Children's laughter heard. Enter (L.) Cicely with a bunch of raisins. Rafe in pursuit. They run all about the stage. Cicely jumps upon a chair and holds the raisins over Rafe's head. He tries to jump for them.]