"But I can nearly hear what they are saying," urged the fair petitioner.
"I cannot help it."
"And all but see them," and once again she peered through the grille.
"I am forced to obey my orders," returned the official. "You applauded. You clapped your hands—and you must retire."
"And for that little burst of enthusiasm," almost wept the person, "I am to lose all this happiness! To be stopped from hearing an indistinct murmur, seeing a blurred picture, resting on rickety seats, and breathing a vitiated atmosphere! Am I to lose all these comforts and pleasures and advantages?"
"I am afraid so," was the answer. And then the official opened the door of the Ladies' Gallery of the House of Commons, and the person passed out.
