tempting display. They sat down to the meal; and broiled ham, eggs,

tea, coffee and sundries, began to disappear with a rapidity which at

once bore testimony to the excellence of the fare, and the appetites of

its consumers.

Now, about Manor Farm,' said Mr Pickwick. 'How shall we go ?'

We had better consult the waiter, perhaps,' said Mr Tupman; and the

waiter was summoned accordingly.

'Dingley Dell, gentlemen - fifteen miles, gentlemen - cross road - post-

chaise, sir?'

Post-chaise won't hold more than two,' said Mr Pickwick.

True, sir - beg your pardon, sir. - Very nice four-wheel chaise, sir -

seat for two behind - one in front for the gentleman that drives - oh!

beg your pardon, sir - that'll only hold three.'

'What's to be done?' said Mr Snodgrass.

'Perhaps one of the gentlemen would like to ride, sir?' suggested the

waiter, looking towards Mr Winkle; 'very good saddle-horses, sir - any

of Mr Wardle's men coming to Rochester, bring 'em back, Sir.'

The very thing,' said Mr Pickwick. 'Winkle, will you go on horseback ?'

Now Mr Winkle did entertain considerable misgivings in the very

lowest recesses of his own heart, relative to his equestrian skill; but,

as he would not have them even suspected, on any account, he at

once replied with great hardihood, 'Certainly. I should enjoy it of all

things.' Mr Winkle had rushed upon his fate; there was no resource.

'Let them be at the door by eleven,' said Mr Pickwick.

Very well, sir,' replied the waiter.

The waiter retired; the breakfast concluded; and the travellers

ascended to their respective bedrooms, to prepare a change of

clothing, to take with them on their approaching expedition.

Mr Pickwick had made his preliminary arrangements, and was looking

over the coffee-room blinds at the passengers in the street, when the

waiter entered, and announced that the chaise was ready - an

announcement which the vehicle itself confirmed, by forthwith

appearing before the coffee-room blinds aforesaid.

It was a curious little green box on four wheels, with a low place like a

wine-bin for two behind, and an elevated perch for one in front, drawn

The Pickwick Papers