that I have devoted my energies to - to endeavours - humble they may

be, humble I know they are - to instil those principles of - which - are

Here the editor of the Eatanswill GAZETTE, appearing to ramble, Mr

Pickwick came to his relief, and said -

Certainly.'

And what, Sir,' said Pott - 'what, Sir, let me ask you as an impartial

man, is the state of the public mind in London, with reference to my

contest with the INDEPENDENT?'

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. 'You are, sir, I perceive, a man of sense and

talent,' said Mr Pott, almost breathless with the vehemence of his

patriotic declaration. 'I am most happy, sir, to make the acquaintance

of such a man.'

And I,' said Mr Pickwick, 'feel deeply honoured by this expression of

your opinion. Allow me, sir, to introduce you to my fellow-travellers,

the other corresponding members of the club I am proud to have

founded.'

I shall be delighted,' said Mr Pott.

Mr Pickwick withdrew, and returning with his friends, presented them

in due form to the editor of the Eatanswill GAZETTE.

Now, my dear Pott,' said little Mr Perker, 'the question is, what are we

to do with our friends here?'

We can stop in this house, I suppose,' said Mr Pickwick.

Not a spare bed in the house, my dear sir - not a single bed.'

The Pickwick Papers