That's all right," said Mr. Voules with a sigh of relief at having

brought off a difficult operation. "And now, who's for a bit more

pie?"

For a time conversation was fragmentary again. But presently Mr.

Voules rose from his chair again; he had subsided with a contented

smile after his first oratorical effort, and produced a silence by

renewed hammering. "Ladies and gents," he said, "fill up for the

second toast:--the happy Bridegroom!" He stood for half a minute

searching his mind for the apt phrase that came at last in a rush.

Here's (hic) luck to him," said Mr. Voules.

"Luck to him!" said everyone, and Mr. Polly, standing up behind Mrs.

Voules, bowed amiably, amidst enthusiasm.

He may say what he likes," said Mrs. Larkins, "he's got luck. That

girl's a treasure of treasures, and always has been ever since she

tried to nurse her own little sister, being but three at the time, and

fell the full flight of stairs from top to bottom, no hurt that any

outward eye 'as even seen, but always ready and helpful, always

tidying and busy. A treasure, I must say, and a treasure I will say,

giving no more than her due...."

She was silenced altogether by a rapping sound that would not be

denied. Mr. Voules had been struck by a fresh idea and was standing up

176

The History of Mr Polly