“And this is the faithful creature,” exclaimed Mr. Ben Allen, “whom I had nearly suffocated!⁠— Mr. Pickwick, how dare you allow your fellow to be employed in the abduction of my sister? I demand that you explain this matter, sir.”

“Explain it, sir!” cried Bob Sawyer fiercely.

“It’s a conspiracy,” said Ben Allen.

“A regular plant,” added Mr. Bob Sawyer.

“A disgraceful imposition,” observed the old lady.

“Nothing but a do,” remarked Martin.