She started up; her companions did the same.

By opening the door of the parlour an inch or two it was ascertained that a person had entered the house and gone quickly upstairs.

This could only be Polly, for Mr.and Mrs.Cheeseman were together in their sitting-room above, their voices audible from time to time.
"Now then, Mrs.Clover," said Gammon, "up you go.

Don't be nervous; it's only Polly Sparkes, and she's more call to be afraid of you than you of her." "I should think so, indeed," assented Mrs.Bubb.

"Don't give way, my dear.