2
[Act I
[Brigid and Beatrice Justice come in by the door on the left. Brigid is an elderly woman, lowsized, with irongrey hair. Beatrice Justice is a slender dark young woman of 27 years. She wears a wellmade navyblue costume and an elegant simply trimmed black straw hat, and carries a small portfolioshaped handbag.]
Brigid
The mistress and Master Archie is at the bath. They never expected you. Did you send word you were back, Miss Justice?
Beatrice
No. I arrived just now.
Brigid
[Points to the easychair.] Sit down and I'll tell the master you are here. Were you long in the train?
Beatrice
[Sitting down.] Since morning.
Brigid
Master Archie got your postcard with the views of Youghal. You're tired out, I'm sure.
Beatrice
O no. [She coughs rather nervously.] Did he practise the piano while I was away?
Brigid
[Laughs heartily.] Practise, how are you! Is it Master Archie? He is mad after the milkman's horse now. Had you nice weather down there, Miss Justice?
Beatrice
Rather wet, I think.