The redheaded man raised his body, shaded his eyes with his hand, and stared, long and coolly, at Mr. Pickwick and his companions.

“Hallo there!” repeated Mr. Pickwick.

“Hallo!” was the redheaded man’s reply.

“How far is it to Dingley Dell?”

“Better er seven mile.”

“Is it a good road?”

“No, ’tain’t.” Having uttered this brief reply, and apparently satisfied himself with another scrutiny, the redheaded man resumed his work. “We want to put this horse up here,” said Mr. Pickwick; “I suppose we can, can’t we?”