“Well, Mr. Weller,” said the buxom female, “I’m sure I only spoke to you out of kindness.”

“Wery likely, mum,” replied Mr. Weller. “Samivel, show the lady out, and shut the door after her.”

This hint was not lost upon the buxom female; for she at once left the room, and slammed the door behind her, upon which Mr. Weller, senior, falling back in his chair in a violent perspiration, said⁠—

“Sammy, if I wos to stop here alone vun week⁠—only vun week, my boy⁠—that ’ere ’ooman ’ud marry me by force and wiolence afore it was over.”

“Wot! is she so wery fond on you?” inquired Sam.