Nellie (interrupting her). Then the mice will play! Let us dance. Dancing is one of the greatest pleasures. Since I take dancing lessons, I think there is nothing so delightful. Let us have a dance, Edith!
Flora. Oh, yes; do let us dance!
Sadie (taking Edna aside). I know something better still. Upstairs in the attic room, there are some old theatrical costumes; we could amuse ourselves with them. What do you say—shall we ask Mamie to fetch them down for us?
Edna. What a splendid idea!
Nellie (still pleading with Edith). I will provide the music; we only want a street organ brought in, and then the dancing can begin.
Katie. And Mamie can go to the library and fetch the third volume of my book. I am just at that part where the Count falls at Imogene's feet and whispers
Flora. How about the crullers? Can't I have some, Edith; I'm so fond of them?
Edith. But, girls, do be reasonable. You know what mamma expects of me.
Edna. Yes, she said you were not to be too strict with us; and then there's plenty of time, we can study later on.
Sadie. In the meantime, we'll manage to enjoy ourselves.
Nellie. May I call Mamie and make arrangements?
(All the girls crowding round Edith). Please, please don't spoil our fun!
Edith (undecided). What shall I do with you all? I might give you a half hour, if you promise not to be too noisy.
Nellie. Grand! splendid! (Hurries to the middle door and calls.) Mamie! Mamie!
Katie. You will see. We will put everything in order again. Mamma shall not notice anything.
Edith. All right; if it only ends well.
Mamie (her hands covered with flour, spreading all her fingers out). What is it? I've just put my hands in the flour; I'm going to make a cake for tea.
Flora (pulling her by the dress). Mamie, go to the bakery and fetch some crullers for us all.
Nellie (pulling her on the other side). And if you see an organ grinder, get him to come here with his organ.
