Joan. What is it stands in the way, mistress?
Clara. Briars, Joan. Thorns of pride, and many another sharp and hurting thing.
Joan. Then take you my counsel, mistress, and have his lordship when he do offer next.
Clara. I’ll think of what you say, Joan. There comes a moment when the heart is tired of being spurned, and it would fain get into shelter. [A slight pause.
Joan. [Looking through the window.] Look up quickly, mistress. There’s Hooper.
Clara. [Getting up.] Then I’ll run away. May all be well with you, dear Joan. [Clara goes out.
[Joan seats herself in a high-backed chair and opens her fan. Miles enters, carrying a small box.
Miles. Already astir, Miss Clara. ’Tis early hours to be sure for one of our London beauties.
[He advances towards her, and she stretches out her hand without rising. He takes it ceremoniously.
Joan. You may sit down, if you like, Mister Hooper.