julia. I had a little idea that was it.
martha. For years she was determined to have it: and I was determined she shouldn't have it. And she didn't have it!
julia. Who did have it?
martha. Henrietta was to. I sent it her as a wedding-present, and told her Laura was never to know. And, as she was in Australia, that seemed safe. Well, the ship it went out in was wrecked—all because of that tea-pot, I believe! So now it's at the bottom of the sea!
julia. Destiny!
martha. She searched my boxes to try and find it: stole my keys! I missed them, but I didn't dare say anything. I used to wrap it in my night-gown and hide it in the bed during the day, and sleep with it under my pillow at night. And I was so thankful when Henrietta got married; so as to be rid of it!
julia. Hush!
(Re-enter Mrs. James, her bonnet still on, with the strings dangling, and her cloak on her arm.)
laura. Julia I've been looking at your room in there.
julia (coldly). Have you, Laura?