martha. Unless a shark has eaten it.
laura. When I ask a reasonable question, Martha, I expect a reasonable answer.
martha. I've given you a reasonable answer! And I wish the Judgment Day would come, and the sea give up its dead, and then—— (At the end of her resources, the poor lady begins to gather herself up, so as once for all to have done with it.) Now, I am going downstairs to talk to Hannah.
laura. You will do nothing of the kind, Martha.
martha. I'm not going to be bullied—not by you or anyone.
laura. I must request you to wait and hear what I've got to say.
martha. I don't want to hear it.
laura. Julia, are we not to discuss this matter, pray?
(Julia, who has her eye on Martha, and is quite enjoying this tussle of the two says nothing.)
martha. You and Julia can discuss it. I am going downstairs.