Three Plays: The Fiddler's House, The Land, Thomas Muskerry

by Padraic Colum

ANNE
You're becoming a stranger to us, Maire.

MAIRE (as an apology) I'm out often, I know, but I think as much as ever of the house, and about you and father. You know we couldn't let him go to the Feis at Ardagh. We couldn't let him go off like a rambling fiddler.

ANNE
We couldn't let him go off by himself.

MAIRE
You're going to Moynihan's.

ANNE
Maybe I'll go.

MAIRE
Anne, honey, do something for me.

ANNE
What will I do?

MAIRE
You'll meet father coming up with Brian, and take him away.

ANNE
And will you tell me everything to-night?

MAIRE Who else would I talk to but yourself, Nancy? (Anne goes out) I wish Anne hadn't spoken to me like that. I feel the like of that. (Desperately) Well, I'll pray for nothing now but to look my best. (She goes to the fire. Brian MacConnell comes in) You're welcome, Brian.