[Emily goes out. Clara sits down by the table and takes up a potato and the knife and slowly and awkwardly sets to work. Jessie stands by her watching.
Jessie. You mustn’t take no account of Mother when she speaks so sharp. ’Tis only her way.
Robin. Could you come and be our serving maid when Maggie’s sent off?
Clara. O I should be too slow and awkward at the work, I think.
Jessie. Yes, you don’t do them taters very nice.
Robin. That don’t matter, I like you, and you can tell me fine things about other parts.
Jessie. Georgie can tell of fine things too. See, there he comes with the vegetables from the garden.
[George comes in with a large basket of vegetables, which he sets down in the back kitchen. Then he stands at the door, silently watching the group near the table.
Jessie. Come here, Georgie, and let Joan hear some of the tales out of what you do sing.
George. What would mistress say if she was to catch me at my songs this time of day?