Ahab
[Endeavoring to calm her] Mistress, he will be here anon. Early this morning did I send my boys.
The Mother
[In excitement once more] Nay, he will not come. Your lads are slothful, and are idling in the streets. Would they but hasten. The darkness gains on me. If I could but see him ere I sink into it. Run, Ahab, he may be at the door.
Ahab
Have patience, you will do yourself a harm.
The Mother
Why do you not let him in? Can you not hear how he is hammering at the door? I feel it in my temples. Open to him, open.
Ahab
Not yet is he here, but he will come ere long.