Somehow or other a buzz of conversation was kept up until the solemn announcement of dinner.

And when she was finally seated in her place, and saw a couple of nimble waiters, with the greengrocer in the back, looking cool and capable, she felt that the worst was over.
The solemn process of sampling doubtful-looking entries and eating saddle of mutton to the tune of a forced conversation was got through without disaster.

Mrs.Bullsom felt her fat face break out into smiles.

Mr.Bullsom, though he would like to have seen everybody go twice for everything, began to expand.

He had already recited the story of Kingston Brooks' greatness to both of his immediate neighbours, and in a casual way mentioned his early patronage of that remarkable young man.