Her patience was waning fast.

Still, in spite of her glances and gestures, Mr.Kneebone made no effort to check the unreasonable merriment of his companions, but rather seemed to encourage it.

So Mrs.
Wood went on fuming, and the trio went on laughing for some minutes, nobody knew why or wherefore, until the party was increased by Mr.Wood, in his Sunday habiliments and Sunday buckle.

Without stopping to inquire into the cause of their mirth, or even to ask the names of his guests, the worthy carpenter shook hands with the one-eyed chapmen, slapped Mr.
Kneebone cordially on the shoulder, and began to laugh as heartily as any of them.
Mrs.Wood could stand it no longer.
"I think you're all bewitched," she cried.
"So we are, Ma'am, by your charms," returned Mr.Jackson, gallantly.
"Quite captivated, Ma'am," added Mr.Smith, placing his hand on his breast.
Mr.Kneebone and Mr.Wood laughed louder than ever.
"Mr.Wood," said the lady bridling up, "my request may, perhaps, have some weight with _you_.

I desire, Sir, you'll recollect yourself.