Scratching is harmonious with the female nature." The statement afforded Mrs.Gibson grounds for the beginning of their polite conversation.
Pollyooly and the Lump worked steadily away at the building of the castle.

Pollyooly did the digging; now and again the Lump would pat a wall placidly.

They had been at work for rather more than half an hour; and the castle was already beginning to wear the rotund air so dear to the eye of the builder when the progressive prince came in sight.
Pollyooly's joyful heart began to beat quickly.

He was slouching along to his doom nearly fifty yards in front of the fragrant baron; and since there were children to annoy all the way, he came but slowly.

It gave Pollyooly time to lead the Lump half-way to Mrs.Gibson, and send him toddling the rest.