Clara. We had better own to everything at once. It will save trouble in the end.
Joan. Own to everything now, and lose all just as my hand was closing upon it, like!
Clara. Poor Joan, it will not make any difference in the end, if the man loves you truly.
Joan. Be kind and patient just to the evening, mistress. Hooper is coming up to see me now. I’d bring him to offer his self, if I was but left quiet along of him for a ten minutes or so.
Clara. And then, Joan?
Joan. And then, when was all fixed up comfortable between us, mistress, maybe as you could break it gently to him so as he wouldn’t think no worse of me.
[Clara gets up and goes to the window, where she looks out for a few minutes in silence. Joan cries softly meanwhile.
Clara. [Turning towards Joan.] As you will, Joan. Very likely ’twill be to-morrow morning before my lord reaches this place.
Joan. O bless you for your goodness, mistress. And I do pray as all may go as well with you as ’tis with me.
Clara. [Sadly.] That is not likely, Joan.