Suddenly , a sharp , dry cough was heard , and they all looked round . It came from a tall , supercilious-looking Rocket , who was tied to the end of a long stick . He always coughed before he made any observation , so as to attract attention . `` Ahem ! ahem ! '' he said , and everybody listened except the poor Catherine Wheel , who was still shaking her head , and murmuring , `` Romance is dead . '' `` Order ! order ! '' cried out a Cracker . He was something of a politician , and had always taken a prominent part in the local elections , so he knew the proper Parliamentary expressions to use . `` Quite dead , '' whispered the Catherine Wheel , and she went off to sleep . As soon as there was perfect silence , the Rocket coughed a third time and began . He spoke with a very slow , distinct voice , as if he was dictating his memoirs , and always looked over the shoulder of the person to whom he was talking . In fact , he had a most distinguished manner . `` How fortunate it is for the King 's son , '' he remarked , `` that he is to be married on the very day on which I am to be let off . Really , if it had been arranged beforehand , it could not have turned out better for him ; but , Princes are always lucky . '' `` Dear me ! '' said the little Squib , `` I thought it was quite the other way , and that we were to be let off in the Prince 's honour . '' `` It may be so with you , '' he answered ; `` indeed , I have no doubt that it is , but with me it is different . I am a very remarkable Rocket , and come of remarkable parents .
My mother was the most celebrated Catherine XXXXX of her day , and was renowned for her graceful dancing .
Cracker King Prince Rocket Squib Wheel expressions memoirs murmuring third