Maggie. Missis be very high in her ways and powerful sharp in the tongue, but I declare as your young lady will be worser nor missis when she do come to that age.

Clara. Why do you think this, Mag?

Maggie. O she do look at any one as though they was lower nor the very worms in the ground. And her speaks as though each word did cost she more nor a shilling to bring it out. And see how destructive she be with her fine clothing. A laced petticoat tore to ribbons last night, and to-day yon handkerchief.

Clara. These things are soon mended.

[Maggie continues to dust for a few moments.

Maggie. The day you comed here, ’twas a bit of ribbon as you did have around of your hair.

Clara. [After a moment’s hesitation.] I put it on to keep my hair neat on the journeying.

Maggie. [Coming nearer.] I count as you’ve not missed it, have you?

Clara. Indeed I have, and I think I must have lost it in the hayfield.

Maggie. ’Tain’t lost.