Laura. Well, now—to think of such a thing. Indeed!
John. I’ve seen a horse right up to the neck of him in that old quag ahind of our place—a-snorting and a-clapping with his teeth and a-plunging so as ’twould terrify anyone to harken to it. And that’s how ’tis to-day with Master William up at home, so ’tis.
Laura. And only saw me once—at Church last Sunday, John?
John. Ah—and they old maid flies do sting but once, but ’tis a terrible big bump as they do raise on the flesh of anyone, that ’tis.
Laura. O John—’tis a fine thing to be loved like that.
John. So I should say—ah, ’tisn’t every day that a man like Master William goes a-courting.
Laura. But he hasn’t set out yet, John.
John. You take and hold the nosegay, mistress, and I’ll go straight off and fetch him, so being as you’re agreeable.
Laura. O yes, and that I am, John—You go and fetch him quick. I’ll bide here gladly, waiting till he comes.
John. That’s it. I knowed you for a sensible lady the moment I pitched my eyes on to you. And when master do come up, you take and talk to him nicely and meek-like and lead him on from one thing to t’other: and you’ll find as he’ll go quiet as a sheep after the first set off, spite of the great spirit what’s at the heart of he.