HOBSON. I'll show you what I propose, Maggie. (_He lifts trap
and calls_.) Will Mossop! (_He places hat on counter and
unbuckles belt_.) I cannot leather you, my lass. You're
female, and exempt, but I can leather him. Come up, Will Mossop.

(WILL _comes up trap and closes it_.)

You've taken up with my Maggie, I hear. (_He conceals
strap_.)

WILLIE. Nay, I've not. She's done the taking up.

HOBSON. Well, Willie, either way, you've fallen on misfortune.
Love's led you astray, and I feel bound to put you right.
(_Shows strap_.)

WILLIE. Maggie, what's this? (_Moves down_ R. _a
little_.)

MAGGIE. I'm watching you, my lad.

HOBSON. Mind, Willie, you can keep your job. I don't bear malice,
but we must beat the love from your body, and every morning you
come here to work with love still sitting in you, you'll get a
leathering. (_Getting ready to strike_.)

WILLIE. You'll not beat love in me. You're making a great
mistake, Mr. Hobson, and--