[She sits down at one end of the table and signs to Robert to place himself next to her. The sisters and Kitty seat themselves. John comes hurriedly in.
John. That’s right. Everyone in their places? But no cover laid for Mary?
Rose. [Carelessly.] We can soon have one put, should she take it into her head to drop in.
John. That’s it. Now ladies, now Robert—’tis thirsty work a-driving upon the Bristol road at midsummer. We’ll lead off with a drink of home-made cider. The eating’ll come sweeter afterwards.
Robert. That’s it, Miller.
[Lubin and Isabel come forward and take the cider mugs from each place to the side table, where Lubin fills them from a large jug. In the mugs of Rose-Anna and Robert, Isabel shakes the contents of the little packets. Whilst they are doing this the following talk is carried on at the table.
Liz [Taking up a spoon.] Real plated, sister.
Jane. Upon my word, so ’tis.
Rose. And not so bright as I should wish to see it neither. I’ve had a sad trouble with my maids of late.
Liz. Sister and I don’t keep none of them, thank goodness.