How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
"They are packing to go this minute. The labels for first class are on the trunks. They're away across the you-know-what to marry Olive off." (5.39)
Helena avoids talking about water like the plague, and she even avoids saying the words "Atlantic Ocean" when she's telling Aunt Fannie Fenimore that the Upstairs Cranstons are sailing to England soon. Why do you think Helena is so worried about saying the words "Atlantic Ocean" out loud?
Quote #5
Beatrice, who had clung to me all day long, turned me loose. She gaped at this white mouse, who said, "'Ello, 'ello, what 'ave we 'ere?"
He had a funny way of talking. I found my tongue. Who else would? Louise's hand was clapped over her mouth. Beatrice was agape. Lamont was completely useless. I straightened an ear and spoke. "We are the —"
"Cranstons?" the white mouse said. (6.34-36)
Nigel has a different way of talking than Helena and her siblings. Check out the contrast between Nigel and the Cranston mice here—not only is Nigel speaking with an accent, but he also has tons of confidence. Now take a look at Beatrice, Louise, and Lamont. They don't seem to be able to speak at all. Perhaps the cat has their tongue?
Quote #6
"But how did you get here?" Camilla was thunderstruck. "How on earth?"
Louise thought. Then she sprang off the bed and scrabbled around the carpet, out of sight. But you could hear her if you listened. Then she soared back up on the foot of the bed. She had Camilla's handkerchief in her teeth. It trailed behind her. The one with the violets. She nosed it forward for Camilla to see.
"My handkerchief?" Camilla's eyes widened. "You mean to tell me you came aboard in the handkerchief drawer of my steamer trunk?"
That was exactly what Louise meant to tell her. How well they seemed to understand each other. (7.69-72)
When it comes to language barriers, Louise knows how to knock them down. She might not be able to talk to Camilla, but that doesn't stop this persistent mouse—she finds a way to communicate without words. In fact, Louise has us thinking that maybe actions are a super important form of communication in this story.