“You’d better not,” replied Sam.

Mr. Weller reflected for a short time, and then, buttoning up his coat with great determination, said⁠—

“I’ll keep a pike.”

“Wot!” exclaimed Sam.

“A pike!” rejoined Mr. Weller, through his set teeth; “I’ll keep a pike. Say goodbye to your father, Samivel. I dewote the remainder of my days to a pike.”

This threat was such an awful one, and Mr. Weller, besides appearing fully resolved to carry it into execution, seemed so deeply mortified by Mr. Pickwick’s refusal, that that gentleman, after a short reflection, said⁠—