abud. Very weary? It's been a long nine miles.

She does not answer. He goes and considers the flower-pots in the window.

ann. I still have on my cloak.

abud. Hang it behind the door there . . no matter if the wet drips.

ann. . . I can wipe up the puddle.

She hangs up her cloak. He selects a flower-pot and brings it to her.

abud. Hyacinth bulbs for the spring.

ann. [After a glance.] I don't want to hold them.

He puts back the pot, a little disappointed.

abud. Out there's the scullery.