Paul (looking at the floor). And I doubt me much if the floor has been swept up this week past, and the hearth is all strewn with ashes. I trow Goodwife Corey would weep could she see her house thus.
Olive. I will get the broom, Paul.
Paul. I know well thou hast not spun this last week, that the cream is too far gone to be churned, and the cheeses have not been turned.
Nancy. 'Tis so, Paul; and there's no sweet-cake in the house, either.
Paul. Thou art no such housewife as thy mother, Olive Corey! One would say she had not taught thee. I trow she was a good housewife, and notable among the neighbors; but this will take from her reputation that she hath so brought thee up. I trow could she see this house 'twould give her a new ache in her heart among all the others.
Olive. I will mind the house, Paul.
Paul. Ay, mind the house, poor lass! Know you, Olive, that there is a rumor abroad in Salem that your father will refuse to plead, and will stand mute at his trial?
Olive. Wherefore will he do that?
Paul. I scarcely know why. Has he made a will, 'twill not be valid were he to plead at a criminal trial; there will be an attainder on it. They say that is one reason, and that he thinks thus to show his scorn of the whole devilish work, and of a trial that is no trial.
Olive. What is the penalty if he stand mute?