“Sir,” said Mr. Micawber, “you are exceedingly obliging. I am in statu quo .”
“And Mrs. Micawber?” I pursued.
“Sir,” said Mr. Micawber, “she is also, thank God, in statu quo .”
“And the children, Mr. Micawber?”
“Sir,” said Mr. Micawber, “I rejoice to reply that they are, likewise, in the enjoyment of salubrity.”
All this time, Mr. Micawber had not known me in the least, though he had stood face to face with me. But now, seeing me smile, he examined my features with more attention, fell back, cried, “Is it possible! Have I the pleasure of again beholding Copperfield!” and shook me by both hands with the utmost fervour.
“Good Heaven, Mr. Traddles!” said Mr. Micawber, “to think that I should find you acquainted with the friend of my youth, the companion of earlier days!