[Looks at her husband in consternation, shakes her head at his abrupt departure and then turns questioningly to ROSE.] What has happened? What's the matter with him?
ROSE
[Overwhelmed by her profound wretchedness.] Oh, dear Mrs. Flamm, I'm that unhappy!
[She sinks down before MRS. FLAMM and buries her head in the latter's lap.
MRS. FLAMM
Now do tell me!… For pity's sake, lass … what's come over you! What is it? You're like a different creature. I can't never understand that! [To the maid who has wheeled her in.] I don't need you now; you can come back later! Get everything ready in the kitchen. [The maid leaves the room.] Now then! What is the trouble? What has happened? Tell me everything! It'll ease you! What? What is't you say? Don't you want to marry that pasty August? Or maybe you're carryin' some other fellow around in your thoughts? Dear me! one o' them is about as good as another, an' no man is worth a great deal.
ROSE
[Controlling herself and rising.] I know what I wants and that's the end o't!
MRS. FLAMM
Is that true? You see, I was afraid you didn't know! Sometimes a woman don't know, especially a young one like you. An' then, maybe, an older woman can help a bit. But if you know what you want,'tis well! You'll be findin' your own way out o' your trouble. [Putting on her spectacles, with a keen glance.] Rosie, are you ill maybe?