COCK. Of course, it is a risk, sir; but there! you've got to take 'em to get maids nowadays. If it isn't in the past, it's in the future. I daresay I could learn 'er.
MRS MARCH. It's not her work, Cook, it's her instincts. A girl who smothered a baby that she oughtn't to have had—
MR MARCH. [Remonstrant] If she hadn't had it how could she have smothered it?
COOK. [Soothingly] Perhaps she's repented, ma'am.
MRS MARCH. Of course she's repented. But did you ever know repentance change anybody, Cook?
COOK. [Smiling] Well, generally it's a way of gettin' ready for the next.
MRS MARCH. Exactly.
MR MARCH. If we never get another chance because we repent—
COOK. I always think of Master Johnny, ma'am, and my jam; he used to repent so beautiful, dear little feller—such a conscience! I never could bear to lock it away.
MRS MARCH. Cook, you're wandering. I'm surprised at your encouraging the idea; I really am.