Jean: No, you needn’t go. You’re welcome, as I said. There’s plenty else for conversation. Sit down. Do you know Dumfries?

Mrs. Fergus: I’m sure I meant no interfering. (Sitting.) A little. It’s a very fashionable town.

Jean: I fear it will be costly.

Mrs. Fergus: Aye, you can spend money there.

[Andrew M’Pherson, a neighbouring farmer, comes to the door.]

M’Pherson: Is Robert at home, Mrs. Burns?

Jean: He’s near, somewhere. Come in, Mr. M’Pherson.

M’Pherson (coming in): Thank you. Good-evening, Mrs. Fergus.

Mrs. Fergus: Good-evening, Mr. M’Pherson. I’m told Mrs. M’Pherson is not looking well.

M’Pherson: She’s bonny.