Beatrice
[A little confused.] That I forgot. But we have the old piece.
Robert
[Pinching Archie's ear.] You little scamp. You want to get off the lesson.
Bertha
O, never mind the lesson. You must sit down and have a cup of tea now. [Going towards the door on the right.] I'll tell Brigid.
Archie
I will, mamma. [He makes a movement to go.]
Beatrice
No, please Mrs Rowan. Archie! I would really prefer . . .
Robert
[Quietly.] I suggest a compromise. Let it be a half-lesson.
Bertha
But she must be exhausted.
Beatrice
[Quickly.] Not in the least. I was thinking of the lesson in the train.
Robert
[To Bertha.] You see what it is to have a conscience, Mrs Rowan?
Archie
Of my lesson. Miss Justice?
Beatrice
[Simply.] It is ten days since I heard the sound of a piano.
