MICAH The minister and his wife have turned into the gate, madam.

MISTRESS MERTON The guests! Is it so late?

MICAH Four o’clock, madam. [Going to the table.] Shall I remove these?

MISTRESS MERTON Flails! Flails in the parlour? Of course, remove them.

MICAH [At the door.] Madam, in all my past years of service at Merton House, I never waited upon a lord till to-day. Madam, in all my future years of service at Merton House, I trust I may never wait upon a lord again.

MISTRESS MERTON Micah, mind the knocker.

MICAH Yes, madam. [Exit at left back. Sounds of a brass knocker outside.]

MISTRESS MERTON Rachel! Rachel! [Exit, right. Enter, left, Justice Merton and Dickon.]

JUSTICE MERTON So you are contented with nothing less than the sacrifice of my niece?

DICKON Such a delightful room!