management of peas, wrinkles neatly applied and difficulties wisely

overcome, and all that he did for the comfort and propitiation of that

fitful but rewarding vegetable. Presently a sound of nervous laughter

and raised voices from the house proclaimed the arrival of the earlier

guests, and the worst of that anticipatory tension was over.

When Mr. Polly re-entered the house he found three entirely strange

young women with pink faces, demonstrative manners and emphatic

mourning, engaged in an incoherent conversation with Mrs. Johnson. All

three kissed him with great gusto after the ancient English fashion.

These are your cousins Larkins," said Mrs. Johnson; "that's Annie

unexpected hug and smack), that's Miriam (resolute hug and smack),

and that's Minnie (prolonged hug and smack)."

(

Right-O," said Mr. Polly, emerging a little crumpled and breathless

from this hearty introduction. "I see."

Here's Aunt Larkins," said Mrs. Johnson, as an elderly and stouter

edition of the three young women appeared in the doorway.

Mr. Polly backed rather faint-heartedly, but Aunt Larkins was not to

be denied. Having hugged and kissed her nephew resoundingly she

gripped him by the wrists and scanned his features. She had a round,

sentimental, freckled face. "I should 'ave known 'im anywhere," she

said with fervour.

The History of Mr Polly