There was a short, pregnant silence.
“Good afternoon,” said William at last.
“Er—good afternoon,” said the young man.
There was another silence.
“Hadn’t you better go and speak to the others?” said Ethel.
“I’ve spoke to them,” said William.
There was another silence.
“Don’t you want to go and play with your friends?” asked the young man.
“No, thank you,” said William.
Silence again.