'Mother-in-law,' said Sam, 'how are you?'

Why, I do believe he is a Weller!' said Mrs. W., raising her eyes to

Sam's face, with no very gratified expression of countenance.

'I rayther think he is,' said the imperturbable Sam; 'and I hope this

here reverend gen'l'm'n 'll excuse me saying that I wish I was THE

Weller as owns you, mother-in-law.'

This was a double-barrelled compliment. It implied that Mrs. Weller

was a most agreeable female, and also that Mr Stiggins had a clerical

appearance. It made a visible impression at once; and Sam followed

up his advantage by kissing his mother-in-law.

'Get along with you!' said Mrs. Weller, pushing him away. 'For shame,

young man!' said the gentleman with the red nose.

'No offence, sir, no offence,' replied Sam; 'you're wery right, though; it

ain't the right sort o' thing, ven mothers-in-law is young and good-

looking, is it, Sir?'

'It's all vanity,' said Mr Stiggins.

'Ah, so it is,' said Mrs. Weller, setting her cap to rights.

Sam thought it was, too, but he held his peace.

The deputy-shepherd seemed by no means best pleased with Sam's

arrival; and when the first effervescence of the compliment had

subsided, even Mrs. Weller looked as if she could have spared him

without the smallest inconvenience. However, there he was; and as he

couldn't be decently turned out, they all three sat down to tea.

'And how's father?' said Sam.

At this inquiry, Mrs. Weller raised her hands, and turned up her eyes,

as if the subject were too painful to be alluded to.

Mr Stiggins groaned.

What's the matter with that 'ere gen'l'm'n?' inquired Sam.

He's shocked at the way your father goes on in,' replied Mrs. Weller.

Oh, he is, is he?' said Sam.

And with too good reason,' added Mrs. Weller gravely.

The Pickwick Papers