“Certainly,” said Jingle, rising hastily. “Can’t step far⁠—no danger of overwalking yourself here⁠—spike park⁠—grounds pretty⁠—romantic, but not extensive⁠—open for public inspection⁠—family always in town⁠—housekeeper desperately careful⁠—very.”

“You have forgotten your coat,” said Mr. Pickwick, as they walked out to the staircase, and closed the door after them.

“Eh?” said Jingle. “Spout⁠—dear relation⁠—uncle Tom⁠—couldn’t help it⁠—must eat, you know. Wants of nature⁠—and all that.”

“What do you mean?”

“Gone, my dear sir⁠—last coat⁠—can’t help it. Lived on a pair of boots, whole fortnight. Silk umbrella⁠—ivory handle⁠—week⁠—fact⁠—honour⁠—ask Job⁠—knows it.”