THOMAS. It iss no disgrace whateffer! All that a mortal man coult do he hass tone. It iss against Human Nature he hass gone; fery natural any man may do that; but Chapel has spoken and he must not go against her.
[JAN imitates the cuckoo.]
Ton't make that squeaking! [Going to the door.] Here iss my daughter come to sit with you. A fery goot day, Ma'am—no fretting —rememper!
[MADGE comes in and stands at the open door, watching the street.]
MADGE. You'll be late, Father; they're beginning. [She catches him by the sleeve.] For the love of God, stand up to him, Father—this time!
THOMAS. [Detaching his sleeve with dignity.] Leave me to do what's proper, girl!
[He goes out. MADGE, in the centre of the open doorway,
slowly moves in, as though before the approach of some one.]
ROUS. [Appearing in the doorway.] Madge!
[MADGE stands with her back to MRS. ROBERTS, staring at him with
her head up and her hands behind her.]
ROUS. [Who has a fierce distracted look.] Madge! I'm going to the meeting.