“Greatly excited, no doubt,” interposed Mr. Perker, with a look of slyness which was very likely accidental.

“The contest,” said Pott, “shall be prolonged so long as I have health and strength, and that portion of talent with which I am gifted. From that contest, Sir, although it may unsettle men’s minds and excite their feelings, and render them incapable for the discharge of the everyday duties of ordinary life; from that contest, sir, I will never shrink, till I have set my heel upon the Eatanswill Independent . I wish the people of London, and the people of this country to know, sir, that they may rely upon me⁠—that I will not desert them, that I am resolved to stand by them, Sir, to the last.”

“Your conduct is most noble, Sir,” said Mr. Pickwick; and he grasped the hand of the magnanimous Pott.