Now general benevolence was one of the leading features of the Pickwickian theory, and no one was more remarkable for the zealous manner in which he observed so noble a principle than Mr. Tracy Tupman. The number of instances recorded on the Transactions of the Society , in which that excellent man referred objects of charity to the houses of other members for left-off garments or pecuniary relief is almost incredible.

“I should be very happy to lend you a change of apparel for the purpose,” said Mr. Tracy Tupman, “but you are rather slim, and I am⁠—”

“Rather fat⁠—grown-up Bacchus⁠—cut the leaves⁠—dismounted from the tub, and adopted kersey, eh?⁠—not double distilled, but double milled⁠—ha! ha! pass the wine.”