Sarah (looking at the fire). Have you the kettle on?
Mary. Can't you see for yourself it's not on.
Sarah. Here, girl (to Kate), fill the kettle and put it on. (Kate looks at Mary, and with a shrug of her shoulders, obeys the orders.) Where's the tea till I show you how to measure?
Mary (in a mocking voice). Kate, get Miss McMinn the tea cannister till she shows you how to measure. (Kate goes to the dresser and brings the teapot and cannister over to Sarah at the table.)
Sarah. But it's you I want to show. (Mary pays no attention, but sits down idly drumming her fingers on the table.) There now—pay particular attention to this. (She takes the cannister from Kate, opens it and ladles out the tea with a spoon into the teapot.) One spoonful for your father and uncle, one for my brother and Mr. Mackenzie, one for yourself and me, and half-a-one for Kate.
Mary. Do you see that, Kate?
Kate. Yes, Miss.
Mary (mockingly). Now the next thing, I suppose, is to weigh out the sugar.
Sarah. No. You always ask the company first do they take sugar before you pour out the tea.
Mary. No; not in good society. You put it on the saucers.