Mr. Pickwick had been so absorbed in these reflections, that a knock at the door was three or four times repeated before he heard it. Hastily seating himself, and calling up his accustomed pleasant looks, he gave the required permission, and Sam Weller entered, followed by his father.

“Glad to see you back again, Sam,” said Mr. Pickwick. “How do you do, Mr. Weller?”

“Wery hearty, thank’ee, sir,” replied the widower; “hope I see you well, sir.”

“Quite, I thank you,” replied Mr. Pickwick.