Jack. Oh, there’s Simple Simon! Come in, Sim, my boy! We’re all talking about what we want. What do you want?

Simple Simon. [Entering slowly and speaking with a drawl, or perhaps a stammer.] I’ve always wanted lots of things—especially pie. But I never had any pennies.

Boy Blue. [Briskly.] Then what you want is pies,—or else pennies,—which would you rather?

Simple Simon. Pies.

Jack Horner. [Entering in time to hear the last two speeches.] Here! Take mine! I picked out all the plums years ago. [Simple Simon takes the pie, and retires to back of stage to eat it.]

Boy Blue. Hello, Jack Horner! What do you need?

Jack Horner. [Turning to the others.] What I need is a new pie.

Mistress Mary Quite Contrary. [Entering.] And what I need is a new watering-pot. [Pettishly.] Look at this old thing!

Bo-Peep. [Entering.] There’s Mistress Mary, quite as contrary as usual! But, now really, children, no joking, I do need a fresh ribbon. You all heard what Harry and Nell said. They noticed it. I suppose everybody has.