Act 2, Scene 1 Summary

This scene takes place in the pub. Musgrave sits quietly. Mrs. Hitchcock watches, and Annie does the serving as the Bargee, the soldiers and the colliers drink, dance and shout. Sparky sings a song about army life as the Slow Collier tells Musgrave that his signing up is only provisional, and the Pugnacious Collier tells Attercliffe that he's a married man. The Slow Collier makes a pass at Annie, who pushes him away. He drunkenly grabs the Pugnacious Collier and starts to dance.

Musgrave stands and calls for everyone's attention, reminding them all that even though the Queen is paying for the drinks, none of the men are under any obligation to join up. He says that at the end of the evening, those that are truly willing will be welcome. The Bargee gets out a harmonica and sings a song...