After considerable shuffling about, places were taken.
Unwilling to waste further time, Lispeth mounted the platform, and rang the bell for silence.
"Are we all here?
Well, I can't wait for anybody else.

Those who come in late will have to hear what they can, and you must tell them the rest afterwards.

Oh, here they are! Quietly, please! There's plenty of room over there.

Violet, will you shut the door?
Now that we're all together, I want to have a talk with you.

You know I'm what may be called 'Prime Minister' of our School Parliament, and, though your wardens will report all we say in council, I think it is well to have a public meeting sometimes.