With these words Mr. Weller left the room, and immediately afterwards was heard to shut the street door. In two hours’ time he returned with so much coolness as if he had been despatched on the most ordinary message possible, and brought the information that an individual, in every respect answering Mr. Winkle’s description, had gone over to Bristol that morning, by the branch coach from the Royal Hotel.

“Sam,” said Mr. Pickwick, grasping his hand, “you’re a capital fellow; an invaluable fellow. You must follow him, Sam.”

“Cert’nly, Sir,” replied Mr. Weller.