If ever there was a careless little wench, 'tis she. I never did
hold with the bringing up of other folks children and if I'd had my
way, 'tis to the poor-house they'd have went, instead of coming here
where I've enough to do with my own.

[The FARMER comes in followed by ANNET and MAY carrying large
parcels.

DANIEL. Well Mother, I count I'm back a smartish bit sooner nor what
you did expect.

ELIZABETH. I'm not one that can be taken by surprise, Dan. May, lay
that parcel on the table at once, and put away your uncle's hat and
overcoat.

DAN. Nay, the overcoat's too heavy for the little maid--I'll hang it
up myself.

[He takes off his coat and goes out into the passage to hang it up.
May runs after him with his hat.

ANNET. I do want to know what's in all those great packets, Aunt.

ELIZABETH. I daresay you'll be told all in good season. Here, take
up and get on with that sewing, I dislike to see young people idling
away their time.

[The FARMER and MAY come back.

MAY. And now, untie the packets quickly, uncle.