[Lord Lovel suddenly turns round and perceives Clara seated by Maggie at the table. He quickly goes towards her, holding out his hand.
Lord Lovel. Miss Clara. Tell me what is going on. [Looking at her cap and apron.] Why have you dressed yourself like this?
Thomas. Come, come. There seems to be some sort of a hitch here. The young gentleman has very likely stopped a bit too long at the Spotted Cow on his way up.
Joan. [Very faintly, looking at Clara.] O do you stand by me now.
Clara. [Lays her hand on Lord Lovel’s arm.] Come with me, my lord. I think I can explain everything if you will only step outside with me. Come—[She leads him swiftly through the door which George shuts behind them.]
[Joan leans back in her chair as though she were going to faint.
Thomas. Well, now—but that’s a smartish wench, getting him out so quiet, like. George, you’d best step after them to see as the young man don’t annoy her in any way.
Emily. That young person can take good care of herself. Sit you down, Thomas and George, and get on with your eating, if you can.
Jessie. Why did he think Joan was our aunt, mother?
Emily. ’Cause he was in that state when a man don’t know his right leg from his left arm.