Ruth
[Trudy is lacing up the back of Rose's corset, as Ruth enters with a stern look on her face]
Tea, Trudy.
Trudy Bolt
Yes, ma'am.
[Trudy leaves, Ruth takes over with Rose's corset]
Ruth
You are not to see that boy again, do you understand me?
[Rose doesn't respond, Ruth yanks hard on the laces]
Ruth
Rose?
[Rose again doesn't answer]
Ruth
I forbid it.
Rose
Oh, stop it, Mother. You'll give yourself a nose bleed.
Ruth
[spins Rose around to face her]
This is not a game. Our situation is precarious. You know the money's gone.
Rose
Of course I know it's gone. You remind me every day.
Ruth
Your father left us nothing but a legacy of bad debts hidden by a good name. That name is the only card we have to play.
[beat]
Ruth
I don't understand you... it is a fine match with Hockley. It will ensure our survival!
Rose
How can you put this on my shoulders?
Ruth
Why are you being so selfish?
Ruth
Do you want to see me working as a seamstress? Is that what you want? To see our fine things sold at auction? Our memories scattered to the wind?
[turns away with her voice breaking]
Rose
[sighs]
It's so unfair.
Ruth
Of course it's unfair. We're women. Our choices are never easy.
[she kisses Rose on the cheek, Rose turns back around and Ruth continues to lace her corset]