Mr.Gammon did so with perfect good humour.

As soon as his voice had ceased that of Miss Sparkes sounded from the neighbouring bedroom.
"Is that the water ?" For the pleasure of the thing Moggie stood to listen, an angry grin on her flushed face.
"Moggie!--I'll give that little beast what for! Are you there ?" The girl made a quick motion with both her hands as if clawing an enemy's face, then coughed loudly, and went away with a sound of stamping on the thinly-carpeted stairs.

One minute later Miss Sparkes' door opened and Miss Sparkes herself rushed forth--a startling vision of wild auburn hair about a warm complexion, and a small, brisk figure girded in a flowery dressing-gown.

She called at the full pitch of her voice for Mrs.Bubb.
"Do you hear me?
Mrs.Bubb, have the kindness to send me up my hot water immejately! This moment, if you please!" There came an answer, but not from the landlady.

It sounded so near to Miss Sparkes that she sprang back into her room.
"Patience, Polly! All in good time, my dear.