“My dear,” said the terrified Pott, “I didn’t say I believed it;⁠—I⁠—” but the unfortunate man’s voice was drowned in the screaming of his partner.

“ Mrs. Pott, let me entreat you, my dear ma’am, to compose yourself,” said Mr. Winkle; but the shrieks and tappings were louder, and more frequent than ever.

“My dear,” said Mr. Pott, “I’m very sorry. If you won’t consider your own health, consider me, my dear. We shall have a crowd round the house.” But the more strenuously Mr. Pott entreated, the more vehemently the screams poured forth.