How would you describe the city in the book fever 1793 in chapter 16

Why does the host answer the guest with brief responses during the party?

Which character in this excerpt is in conflict with society, and why? joe summers is in conflict with society because he is joking with the villagers. old man warner is in conflict with society because he believes that young folks have crazy ideas. mrs. adams is in conflict with society because she says some villages have stopped holding lotteries. mr. adams is in conflict with society because he is standing with the villager who represents society's old ways.

Boss: oh no! that’s the phone again! secretary: blank boss: . a. shall i take it? b. will you answer it? c. can you do me a favor? d. may i hang it up?