Mrs. B.—“I ask to be allowed to say a few words.”
Miss E.—“We have drawn up a petition to this effect, which we shall ask you to sign, and which is worded as follows: ‘Considering that the British nation is the most virtuous on earth, and that she alone sets an example to the world by her piety, her religious researches, her religious associations, her respect for petty nations, her chivalry towards oppressed peoples, her contempt for filthy lucre, her sobriety, and other no less virtuous qualities; the undersigned members of the great and glorious British family humbly ask that such virtue may receive the reward it deserves.’” (Hear, hear.)
The Rev. B. Goodman.—“I should like to propose an amendment, or rather to suggest a change in the wording of the petition that we have just heard read.”
The President.—“The Reverend Mr. Goodman will propose an amendment.”
Mrs. B.—“I asked leave to speak before the reverend gentleman.”
The President.—“We will hear you after.”
Mrs. B.—“I want to speak at once....”
The President.—“I tell you that....”
Mrs. B.—“I protest. It’s a shame!”
The President.—“But I tell you, you shall....”