Lady H. I'm not under your orders, sir. It is my pleasure to stay. I'll do exactly as I choose!
Tris. Well, I wash my hands of all responsibility. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Nan (sees that Plunket and Lionel are watching her). Those lads have an eye for a good thing, though. (To Tristan.) We'll take all the blame. No one shall say that you led us into mischief, poor dear!
Lady H. Yes, cousin, you are exonerated. Whatever happens, be it upon my own rash head. But I will not go! (Emphatically.)
Plun. (overhears last words). You hear, sir? She will not go with you. Don't annoy the girls any further. (To girls.) Call on us if he bothers you. (To Tris., who looks daggers.) But cheer up! There are plenty more maids yonder. Hi, girls (turns to the servants). Here's a chap wants a good maid, and he looks as if he could pay well, too.
Tris. Oh! what a beastly joke! He's taking liberties with me! (He looks scared and affronted.)
(Lady H. and Nancy laugh together over Tristan's plight as the girls come forward and surround him.)
All (chattering). I can mow, I can sew, I can reap, I can sweep, I can bake and make, I can boil and stew, I can churn and brew! (All speak different lines from the part just sung and make a great clatter and confusion. Tristan dodges among them and runs off, the girls following him.)
Lady H. He has taken refuge in flight!
Nan. Let's hope he won't forget us.