The president puffed at a churchwarden and exchanged genial banter with those who came up to deposit offerings.

Mr.Dick Perkins, the Vice, was encouraging a spirit of conviviality at the other end.

A few minutes after Thyrza and her companions had entered, a youth of the seediest appearance struck introductory chords on the piano, and started off at high pressure with a selection of popular melodies.

The room by degrees grew full.

Then the chairman rose, and with jocular remarks announced the first song.
Totty had several acquaintances present, male and female; her laughter frequently sounded above the hubbub of voices.