Instantly all were chumping almonds, and the icy atmosphere thawed into summer.
Everybody began to talk at once.
"There's a spare cup here if you'd like some coffee.

Yes, Rachel, I _shall_ offer it!" "I suppose you're over fourteen ?" "We may make coffee after lunch if we're seniors, but the kids aren't allowed any." "You've just one minute to drink it in before the bell rings." "Hustle up if you want to finish it." "I'll bet a cookie you're a real sport." "There's the bell! Don't choke or you'll blight your young career." "We've got to scoot quick!" "Come along with me and I'll show you where." Irene, taken in tow by a girl with a freckled nose, was hurried along the corridor and up the stairs to the classrooms.

Although she had scarcely spoken a word she had undoubtedly gained a victory, and had established her welcome among at least a section of her schoolfellows.
She did not yet know their names, but names are a detail compared with personalities, and with some members of the coffee-party she felt that she might ultimately become chums.
"Don't I bless Dad for those chocs!" she thought as she took her seat at a desk.

"They worked the trick.

If I'd had nothing to offer that crew I might have sat out in the cold forevermore.