MIN (voice off). Hilda, it’s me. Can I come in?

HILDA Come in Min (Min enters, stops in the doorway)

MIN What’s the matter? Oh dear, it’s not bad news is it? Have you had a letter? Come on gal, tell me.

HILDA It just says he’s wounded and will write. If only I could find out what’s wrong with him.

MIN Yes, I know, but you can’t sit there crying ,making yourself ill. I’m worried about you, Hilda. If you don’t soon buck up I’ll have to get the doctor to come and take a look at you.

HILDA (ALARMED) Don’t do that! I can’t afford to have the doctor in. I’ll be as right as ninepence as soon as I know Jim is safe.

MIN Well let’s hope you soon get word, but you’ll be better if you’re doing something. (goes over to work table) Have you done any work this week?

HILDA No I couldn’t. Don’t nag me Mm, I just don’t want to do it any more.

MIN I don’t mean to nag you, but I don’t like seeing you like this, and if I can’t look out for you, who can? I mean, after all we’ve been through together, all the years we’ve been friends. Now, what’s it all about?

HILDA If you must know, I feel I’m making uniforms for soldiers to wear and go out to be . . .killed or maimed.

MIN You mustn’t think like that Hilda. You’re making clothes to keep them dry and comfortable.

HILDA Comfortable? In the trenches Mm? Don’t talk daft.

MIN Look dear, I’ll give you a hand with your work, after we’ve had a nice cup of tea. I’ll put the kettle on. (gets up.)

HILDA I haven’t got any tea left. Anyway how will you do your own work if you’re helping me? You need the money too.

MIN I know I do, bull can do it, I’ll just get up a bit earlier for a few days. I’ve done it before when I needed extra cash. Look you get started while I go and get a pinch of tea from my caddy. I shan’t be long. (goes to door). Come on mate, try to make an effort.(exits. voices off) Oh hello, come on in. (Hilda goes to door)

HILDA Who is it? (enter Matilda)

MATILDA It’s me Hilda.

HILDA Matilda! What’re you doing here?