Merton. Oh, thank you so much. [Tries to put strap round bag]. I'm afraid it's about time for me to be off.

Kirstin. Yes, I suppose it is. I've saddled your mare for you; she's ready.

Merton. Have you done that besides everything else? I'm not going to try to thank you for it all—

Thwaite. No, I wouldn't. If the mare is saddled, you'd best be mounting, you've got a long way to go.

Kirstin [looking at him struggling with the strap]. You want another hole there. Here, let me. [Taking the strap and pulling out a knife].

Thwaite [looking impatiently at Kirstin]. Well, I'll be stepping, Mr Merton. I'm rather busy to-day.

Merton [smiling]. I'm so sorry, Mr Thwaite—this is the last time I shall interrupt the farm work.

Kirstin [repeats half to herself]. The last time—yes.

Thwaite. I'll be going on. Kirstin, you follow me down there away—when you're ready [rather sarcastically].

Kirstin. Yes, father. [Still doing strap].