By this time the fire-engine was tearing down the street ; every window was thrown up as it dashed past ; the maids were all in hysterics ; and the lady manageress, admirable woman !
A general stampede ensued, much to the satisfaction of George Mason, who now found the upper floors deserted by his affrighted guests, and therefore the more easily examined for the source of the mischief.  By this time the fire-engine was tearing down the street ; every window was thrown up as it dashed past ; the maids were all in hysterics ; and the lady manageress, admirable woman !  moved calm and collected amongst the excited throng.