But Vernon is evidently inclined to support Fanny. Bennet
goes out. She crosses and seats herself at the desk. She takes from
a drawer some neatly folded papers. She busies herself with
figures.]
VERNON [he crosses to his Aunts]. Whatever's the matter?
THE ELDER MISS WETHERELL. She is excited. She has had a very trying
time.
THE YOUNGER MISS WETHERELL. Bennet didn't like the idea of her
receiving them.
NEWTE. It was that minx Judy's doing. They'll have the rough side
of my tongue when I get back--all of them.
VERNON. What does she want with Mrs. Bennet?
THE ELDER MISS WETHERELL. I can't think.
The atmosphere is somewhat that of a sheepfold before a thunderstorm.
The Misses Wetherell are still clinging to one another. Vernon and
Dr. Freemantle are both watching Fanny. Jane, Honoria, and Ernest
are still busy about the room.
Suddenly, to Newte--who is standing apart--the whole thing comes with
a rush. But it is too late for him to interfere.
Mrs. Bennet, followed by Bennet, are entering the room. He shrugs
his shoulders and turns away.
MRS. BENNET. Your ladyship sent for me?
FANNY. Yes. [She half turns--holds out a paper.] This wages sheet
is quite correct, I take it? It is your own.
MRS. BENNET [she takes it]. Quite correct.
FANNY [she tears out a cheque she has written--hands it to Mrs.
Bennet]. You will find there two months' wages for the entire
family. I have made it out in a lump sum payable to your husband.
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