I had my own way, but she looked sulky and spiteful.

I got Tom Smith's magpie; but I had to have him, too.

However, my costume as Showman was gorgeous, and Edward kept our Happy Family well together.
We arranged that Tom should put Mag on at the left wing, and then run round behind, and call Mag softly from the right.

Then she would hop across the stage to him, and show off well.

Lettice was to let mother know when the spectators might take their places, and to tell the gardener when to raise the curtain.
I really think one magpie must be "a sign of sorrow," as nurse says; but what made Bernard take it into his beautiful foolish head to give trouble I cannot imagine.