(HOBSON _enters from the street_.)

HOBSON. Well, what about that dinner? (_Comes_ C.)

(_The positions are_ MAGGIE R., VICKEY _up_ R. C., HOBSON
_up_ C., ALICE L. C.) MAGGIE. It'll be ready in ten minutes.

HOBSON. You said one o'clock.

MAGGIE. Yes, father. One for half-past. If you'll wash your
hands, it'll be ready as soon as you are.

HOBSON. I won't wash my hands. I don't hold with such finicking
ways, and well you know it. (_Sits in front of counter_.)

VICKEY. Father, have you heard the news about our Maggie?
(_Down_ R. C.)

HOBSON. News? There is no news. It's the same old tale.
Uppishness. You'd keep a starving man from the meat he earns in
the sweat of his brow, would you? I'll put you in your places.
I'll--(_Rises_.)

MAGGIE. Don't lose your temper, father. You'll maybe need it soon
when Vickey speaks. (_Moves down_ R.)

HOBSON. What's Vickey been doing?

VICKEY. Nothing. It's about Will Mossop, father.