tints 'imself and 'is children to save, there can't be neither
surplus nor security. That's why he wouldn't have no children [she
sinks back], not though I wanted them.

ENID. Yes, yes, I know!

MRS. ROBERTS. No you don't, M'm. You've got your children, and
you'll never need to trouble for them.

ENID. [Gently.] You oughtn't to be talking so much, Annie. [Then,
in spite of herself.] But Roberts was paid a lot of money, was n't
he, for discovering that process?

MRS. ROBERTS. [On the defensive.] All Roberts's savin's have gone.
He 's always looked forward to this strike. He says he's no right to
a farthing when the others are suffering. 'T is n't so with all o'
them! Some don't seem to care no more than that--so long as they get
their own.

ENID. I don't see how they can be expected to when they 're
suffering like this. [In a changed voice.] But Roberts ought to
think of you! It's all terrible----! The kettle's boiling. Shall I
make the tea? [She takes the teapot and, seeing tea there, pours
water into it.] Won't you have a cup?

MRS. ROBERTS. No, thank you, M'm. [She is listening, as though for
footsteps.] I'd--sooner you did n't see Roberts, M'm, he gets so
wild.

ENID. Oh! but I must, Annie; I'll be quite calm, I promise.

MRS. ROBERTS. It's life an' death to him, M'm.

ENID. [Very gently.] I'll get him to talk to me outside, we won't
excite you.

MRS. ROBERTS. [Faintly.] No, M'm.

[She gives a violent start. ROBERTS has come in, unseen.]

ROBERTS. [Removing his hat--with subtle mockery.] Beg pardon for
coming in; you're engaged with a lady, I see.

ENID. Can I speak to you, Mr. Roberts?

ROBERTS. Whom have I the pleasure of addressing, Ma'am?

ENID. But surely you know me! I 'm Mrs. Underwood.

ROBERTS. [With a bow of malice.] The daughter of our Chairman.

ENID. [Earnestly.] I've come on purpose to speak to you; will you
come outside a minute?

[She looks at MRS. ROBERTS.]

ROBERTS. [Hanging up his hat.] I have nothing to say, Ma'am.

ENID. But I must speak to you, please.

[She moves towards the door.]

ROBERTS. [With sudden venom.] I have not the time to listen!

MRS. ROBERTS. David!

ENID. Mr. Roberts, please!

ROBERTS. [Taking off his overcoat.] I am sorry to disoblige a lady
--Mr. Anthony's daughter.

ENID. [Wavering, then with sudden decision.] Mr. Roberts, I know
you've another meeting of the men.

[R