(Petsy goes on making a noise with drum, while Mrs. Roberts tries to speak.)
Mrs. R.—(Obliged to shout.) It seems—there has been some difficulty—about the hall.
Mrs. S.—About the hall—yes. (Looking round at Petsy.) She is such a merry child, it makes one quite happy to see her!
Mrs. R.—(Aside.) I am glad it has that effect upon some one!
Mrs. S.—You were saying about the hall—
P.—Ma! Mamma!
Mrs. S.—Yes, darling, yes. About the hall—
P.—Ma! Ma! Ma!
Mrs. S.—I don't know why there should be any difficulty—
P.—Ma! Ma!