were standing, disfigured with mud and disordered by hard riding, by

the horses' heads. About a hundred yards in advance was the other

chaise, which had pulled up on hearing the crash. The postillions,

each with a broad grin convulsing his countenance, were viewing the

adverse party from their saddles, and Mr Jingle was contemplating the

wreck from the coach window, with evident satisfaction. The day was

just breaking, and the whole scene was rendered perfectly visible by

the grey light of the morning.

Hollo!' shouted the shameless Jingle, 'anybody damaged? - elderly

gentlemen - no light weights - dangerous work - very.'

You're a rascal,' roared Wardle.

Ha! ha!' replied Jingle; and then he added, with a knowing wink, and

a jerk of the thumb towards the interior of the chaise - 'I say - she's

very well - desires her compliments - begs you won't trouble yourself -

love to TUPPY - won't you get up behind? - drive on, boys.'

The postillions resumed their proper attitudes, and away rattled the

chaise, Mr Jingle fluttering in derision a white handkerchief from the

coach window.

Nothing in the whole adventure, not even the upset, had disturbed the

calm and equable current of Mr Pickwick's temper. The villainy,

however, which could first borrow money of his faithful follower, and

then abbreviate his name to 'Tuppy,' was more than he could patiently

bear. He drew his breath hard, and coloured up to the very tips of his

spectacles, as he said, slowly and emphatically -

If ever I meet that man again, I'll - '

Yes, yes,' interrupted Wardle, 'that's all very well; but while we stand

talking here, they'll get their licence, and be married in London.'

Mr Pickwick paused, bottled up his vengeance, and corked it down.

How far is it to the next stage?' inquired Mr Wardle, of one of the

boys.

Six mile, ain't it, Tom?'

Rayther better.'

Rayther better nor six mile, Sir.'

Can't be helped,' said Wardle, 'we must walk it, Pickwick.'

No help for it,' replied that truly great man.

The Pickwick Papers