Jane (thoughtfully). I'm afraid the dredging-machine is rather a messy toy, Uncle, and the fire-engine wouldn't do at all, either—it would be sure to encourage them to play with fire. Bobby, if you say "blow!" once more, I shall tell Mother. Uncle is the best judge of what's suitable for you!
Uncle. Well, there's something in what you say, Jenny. We must see if we can't find something better, that's all.
Salesw. I've a little Toy-stige, 'ere—with scenes and characters in "Richard Cured o' Lyin'" complete and ready for acting—how would that do?
[Tommy and Bobby cheer up visibly at this suggestion.
Jane. I don't think Mother would like them to have that, Uncle—it might give them a taste for theatres, you know!
Uncle. Ha—so it might—very thoughtful of you, Jane—Mustn't get in your Mother's bad books; never do! What's in these boxes? soldiers? How about these, eh, boys? [The boys are again consoled.
Jane (gently). They're getting rather too big for such babyish things as soldiers, Uncle! I tell you what I think—if you got a nice puzzle-map for Tommy—he's so backward in his Geography—and a drawing slate for Bobby, who's getting on so nicely with his drawing, and a little work-box—not an expensive one, of course—for Winnie, that would be quite——
[These sisterly counsels are rewarded by ungrateful and rebellious roars.
Uncle. Tommy, did I hear you address your sister as a "beast"? Come—come! And what are you all turning on the waterworks for, eh? Strikes me, Jane, you haven't quite hit off their tastes!
Jane (virtuously). I have only told you what I know Mother would wish them to have, Uncle; and, even if I am to have my ankles kicked for it, I'm sure I'm right!