"So am I, Kenwigs," rejoined Mr. Lillyvick.
"A very happy life I have led with your niece, Sir," said Kenwigs.
"It would have been your own fault if you had not, Sir," remarked Mr. Lillyvick.
"Morleena Kenwigs," cried her mother, at this crisis, much affected, "kiss your dear uncle."
The young lady did as she was requested, and the three other little girls were successively hoisted up to the collector’s countenance, and subjected to the same process, which was afterwards repeated by the majority of those present.
"Oh dear, Mrs. Kenwigs," said Miss Petowker, "while Mr. Noggs is making that punch to drink happy returns in, do let Morleena go through that figure dance before Mr. Lillyvick."
"No, no, my dear," replied Mrs. Kenwigs, "it will only worry my uncle."
"It can't worry him, I am sure," said Miss Petowker. "You will be very much pleased, won't you, Sir?"
"That I am sure I shall," replied the collector, glancing at the punch mixer.
"Well then, I'll tell you what," said Mrs. Kenwigs, "Morleena shall do the steps, if uncle can persuade Miss Petowker to recite us the Blood-Drinker's Burial afterwards."
There was a great clapping of hands and stamping of feet at this proposition, the subject whereof gently inclined her head several times, in acknowledgment of the reception.
"You know," said Miss Petowker, reproachfully, "that I dislike doing anything professional in private parties."
"Oh, but not here?" said Mrs. Kenwigs. "We are all so very friendly and pleasant, that you might as well be going through it in your own room; besides, the occasion——"
"I can't resist that," interrupted Miss Petowker, "anything in my humble power I shall be delighted to do."
Mrs. Kenwigs and Miss Petowker had arranged a small programme of the entertainments between them, of which this was the prescribed order, but they had settled to have a little pressing on both sides, because it looked more natural. The company being all ready, Miss Petowker hummed a tune, and Morleena danced a dance, having previously had the soles of her shoes chalked with as much care as if she were going on the tight-rope. It was a very beautiful figure, comprising a great deal of work for the arms, and was received with unbounded applause.
"If I was blessed with a—a child—" said Miss Petowker, blushing, "of such genius as that, I would have her out at the Opera instantly."
Mrs. Kenwigs sighed and looked at Mr. Kenwigs, who shook his head, and observed that he was doubtful about it.
"Kenwigs is afraid," said Mrs. K.
"What of?" enquired Miss Petowker, "not of her failing?"
"Oh no," replied Mrs. Kenwigs, "but if she grew up what she is now,—only think of the young dukes and marquises."
"Very right," said the collector.
