“That accounts for my not having received the ‘page from the romance of real life,’ which he promised me one morning when he appeared to be contemplating suicide on Rochester Bridge, I suppose,” said Mr. Pickwick, smiling. “I need not inquire whether his dismal behaviour was natural or assumed.”

“He could assume anything, Sir,” said Job. “You may consider yourself very fortunate in having escaped him so easily. On intimate terms he would have been even a more dangerous acquaintance than⁠—” Job looked at Jingle, hesitated, and finally added, “than⁠—than-myself even.”

“A hopeful family yours, Mr. Trotter,” said Perker, sealing a letter which he had just finished writing.

“Yes, Sir,” replied Job. “Very much so.”