[Matthew bends down to Joe's ear and whispers.]
Mathew. We must go and buy the cane.
Joe. Sakes!
Mathew. Bear up! It'll all be over by this time to-morrow night, and that's a great stand by, isn't it?
Joe. I suppose it is. [Gloomily.] Who'll be spokesman over the buyin'?
Matthew. Me, my son. How far will 'e go i' price?
[Joe shakes his head and looks wearily at Matthew.]
Joe. It's no odds to me, Matthey; I don't know and don't care!
Matthew. Will sixpence ruin 'e?
Joe. It's all ruin. I'm sweatin' like a bull with fear and shame, and wish I was dead and buried.