Not by no means,' acquiesced Mr Weller, affably but magisterially.

So far from thinking there is anything wrong in conduct so natural,'

resumed Mr Pickwick, 'it is my wish to assist and promote your

wishes in this respect. With this view, I have had a little conversation

with your father; and finding that he is of my opinion - '

The lady not bein' a widder,' interposed Mr Weller in explanation.

The lady not being a widow,' said Mr Pickwick, smiling. 'I wish to free

you from the restraint which your present position imposes upon you,

and to mark my sense of your fidelity and many excellent qualities, by

enabling you to marry this girl at once, and to earn an independent

livelihood for yourself and family. I shall be proud, Sam,' said Mr

Pickwick, whose voice had faltered a little hitherto, but now resumed

its customary tone, 'proud and happy to make your future prospects

in life my grateful and peculiar care.'

There was a profound silence for a short time, and then Sam said, in a

low, husky sort of voice, but firmly withal -

I'm very much obliged to you for your goodness, Sir, as is only like

yourself; but it can't be done.'

Can't be done!' ejaculated Mr Pickwick in astonishment.

Samivel!' said Mr Weller, with dignity.

I say it can't be done,' repeated Sam in a louder key. 'Wot's to become

of you, Sir?'

'My good fellow,' replied Mr Pickwick, 'the recent changes among my

friends will alter my mode of life in future, entirely; besides, I am

growing older, and want repose and quiet. My rambles, Sam, are over.'

How do I know that 'ere, sir?' argued Sam. 'You think so now! S'pose

you wos to change your mind, vich is not unlikely, for you've the spirit

o' five-and-twenty in you still, what 'ud become on you vithout me? It

can't be done, Sir, it can't be done.'

Wery good, Samivel, there's a good deal in that,' said Mr Weller

encouragingly.

I speak after long deliberation, Sam, and with the certainty that I

shall keep my word,' said Mr Pickwick, shaking his head. 'New scenes

have closed upon me; my rambles are at an end.'

The Pickwick Papers