She's schooling me.
FREDDY. And don't you want to learn, then?
WILLIE (_moves_ C.). 'Tisn't that. I--just don't want to be
rude to you--turning you out so early. I don't see you need to go
away so soon. (_Crosses below table_.)
ALBERT. Why not?
WILLIE. I'm fond of a bit of company.
ALBERT. Do you want company on your wedding night?
WILLIE. I don't favour your going so soon. (_Crosses_ C.
_again_.)
FREDDY. He's afraid to be alone with her. That's what it is. He's
shy of his wife.
(_They laugh_.)
WILLIE. That's a fact. I've not been married before, you see.
I've not been left alone with her, either. Up to now she's been
coming round to where I lodged at Tubby Wadlow's to give me my
lessons. It's different now, and I freely own I'm feeling
awkward-like. I'd be deeply obliged if you would stay on a bit to
help to--to thaw the ice for me.
FREDDY. You've been engaged to her, haven't you?
WILLIE. Aye, but it weren't for long. And you see, Maggie's not
the sort you get familiar with.
FREDDY. You had quite long enough to thaw the ice. It's not our
job to do your melting for you. (_Moves away_ R.)
ALBERT. No. Fred, these pots need washing. We will wash them.
(ALBERT _carries tray behind screen.
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