L. 'Vilikens and his——'
Kathleen (stopping his mouth). Oh! please don't. Where were you?
Isabel. I'm sure I wish I had known where he was! We lost him among the rhododendrons, and I don't know where he got to; oh, you naughty—naughty—(climbs on his knee).
Dora. Now, Isabel, we really want to talk.
L. I don't.
Dora. Oh, but you must. You promised, you know.
L. Yes, if all was well; but all's ill. I'm tired, and cross; and I won't.
Dora. You're not a bit tired, and you're not crosser than two sticks; and we'll make you talk, if you were crosser than six. Come here, Egypt; and get on the other side of him.
(Egypt takes up a commanding position near the hearth-brush.)
Dora (reviewing her forces). Now, Lily, come and sit on the rug in front.