the vignette was so unprecedented , so beyond stephen 's wildest imaginings , that for several minutes he remained where he stood , watching and listening as grooms , ushers , and footmen in full livery sang in democratic harmony with chambermaids , laundresses , and plump scullery maids in soiled white aprons , all of whom were taking direction from a stooped , ancient under-butler who was waving his hands as if he were conducting a symphonic chorus .