“Not the least doubt of it,” replied Mr. Winkle, in the fullness of his heart. “That is⁠—yes⁠—oh, yes⁠—certainly.”

“You have never known anything in his behaviour towards Mrs. Bardell, or any other female, in the least degree suspicious?” said Mr. Phunky, preparing to sit down; for Serjeant Snubbin was winking at him.

“N-n-no,” replied Mr. Winkle, “except on one trifling occasion, which, I have no doubt, might be easily explained.”