“Then the others went exploring, In the cellar went exploring; Found there—onions! Many onions! Onions strong of mighty flavor! Quickly then they grasped the basket, Grasped that basket full of onions, Hurried with them to the kitchen, Chopped them, cooked them with precaution; Then the house from roof to cellar Told a mighty tale of onions! On their groaning board they placed them, And with greediness devoured them. When the Matron and the Poet, Weary and belated travelers, Turned the corner near the cottage, They were greeted by the odor, And their hungry hearts were gladdened. Then they all sat down to supper.
“Oh, who could describe all the laughter and chatter, As quickly they cleared every dish and each platter?— Each feeling they’d now reached the height of their wishes, Excepting that some one must wash up the dishes.
“Give it to me,” said Millicent; “I’m no poet, but I’ll write the kitchen chronicles.”
She scribbled away, reading aloud as she wrote—
“The dish-washing was exciting in the extreme. The Duchess, being overcome at the sight of so much work, was laid upon the buttery shelf. The Duchess’s apron fell on the Peeler, who, with the valuable assistance of the Stoker, smashed three plates and a cup. The Poet, not seeing the Matron, fell over her while crossing the kitchen, which made the Matron cross (the threshold). The Duchess (very naturally) slipped off the buttery shelf, and the Wandering Minstrel and Scullery-maid, sneaking away from the glorious company of dish-washers, made night hideous with their wild howlings in the Grotto (banjo accompaniment).”
“Now, Lamplighter, give it to me. As Matron I am the one to write up the account of our social functions”; and Marguerite threw down her account-book and took the Journal, writing and reading:
“Hilarity Hall was the scene of unparalleled gaiety this evening, the occasion being a reception which was tendered to distinguished and honored guests, Sir Edward and Lady Mary. The reception was held in the Grotto, after which the Duchess led the way to the Refectory, where a limited collation was enjoyed. The honored guests then inspected the Cinderella Section, and, expressing themselves much pleased with their visit, they reluctantly departed.”