BERTHA.
But sit down, won’t you? You must be very tired.
BEATRICE.
[Quickly.] No, not at all. I just came for Archie’s lesson.
BERTHA.
I wouldn’t hear of such a thing, Miss Justice, after your long journey.
ARCHIE.
[Suddenly to Beatrice.] And, besides, you didn’t bring the music.
BEATRICE.
[A little confused.] That I forgot. But we have the old piece.
ROBERT.
[Pinching Archie’s ear.] You little scamp. You want to get off the lesson.
BERTHA.
O, never mind the lesson. You must sit down and have a cup of tea now. [Going towards the door on the right.] I’ll tell Brigid.
ARCHIE.
I will, mamma. [He makes a movement to go.]
BEATRICE.
No, please Mrs Rowan. Archie! I would really prefer...
ROBERT.
[Quietly.] I suggest a compromise. Let it be a half-lesson.