William. I’d rather you did stand at my side, John.
[John hides himself behind the bushes. Laura comes slowly up. William stands awkwardly before her, saying nothing. Presently he takes off his hat and salutes her clumsily and she bows to him. For some moments they stand embarrassed, looking at one another.
William. [Suddenly bringing out a bunch of carrots from his basket and holding them up.] See these young carrots, mistress.
Laura. Indeed I do, master.
William. ’Tisn’t everywhere that you do see such fine grown ones for the time of year.
Laura. You’re right there, master. We have none of them up at our place.
William. [Holding them towards her.] Then be pleased to accept these, mistress.
Laura. [Taking the carrots.] Thank you kindly, master. [There is another embarrassed silence. William looks distractedly from Laura to his basket. Then he takes out a bunch of turnips.
William. You couldn’t beat these nowhere, not if you were to try.
Laura. I’m sure you could not, master.