The offender had barely time to take Mrs. Leo Hunter’s proffered hand, when his eyes encountered the indignant orbs of Mr. Pickwick.

“Hallo!” said Jingle. “Quite forgot⁠—no directions to postillion⁠—give ’em at once⁠—back in a minute.”

“The servant, or Mr. Hunter will do it in a moment, Mr. Fitz-Marshall,” said Mrs. Leo Hunter.

“No, no⁠—I’ll do it⁠—shan’t be long⁠—back in no time,” replied Jingle. With these words he disappeared among the crowd.