nt abroad, darned,
aired, and prepared it for wear, when it came home, and, in short,
enjoyed his fullest trust and confidence. I shall show you that, on many
occasions, he gave halfpence, and on some occasions even sixpences, to
her little boy; and I shall prove to you, by a witness whose testimony
it will be impossible for my learned friend to weaken or controvert,
that on one occasion he patted the boy on the head, and, after inquiring
whether he had won any "ALLEY TORS" or "COMMONEYS" lately (both of which
I understand to be a particular species of marbles much prized by the
youth of this town), made use of this remarkable expression, "How should
you like to have another father?" I shall prove to you, gentlemen, that
about a year ago, Pickwick suddenly began to absent himself from home,
during long intervals, as if with the intention of gradually breaking
off from my client; but I shall show you also, that his resolution
was not at that time sufficiently strong, or that his better
feelings conquered, if better feelings he has, or that the charms and
accomplishments of my client prevailed against his unmanly intentions,
by proving to you, that on one occasion, when he returned from the
country, he distinctly and in terms, offered her marriage: previously,
however, taking special care that there would be no witness to their
solemn contract; and I am in a situation to prove to you, on the
testimony of three of his own friends--most unwilling witnesses,
gentlemen--most unwilling witnesses--that on that morning he was
discovered by them holding the plaintiff in his arms, and soothing her
agitation by his caresses and endearments.'

A visible impression was produced upon the auditors by this part of
the learned Serjeant's address. Drawing forth two very small scraps of
paper, he proceeded--'And now, gentlemen, but one word more. Two letters
have passed between these parties, letters which are admitted to be in
the handwriting of the defendant, and which speak volumes, indeed.
The letters, too, bespeak the character of the man. They are not open,
fervent, eloquent epistles, breathing nothing but the language
of affectionate attachment. They are covert, sly, underhanded
communications, but, fortunately, far more conclusive than if couched in
the most glowing language and the most poetic imagery--letters that
must be viewed with a cautious and suspicious eye--letters that were
evidently intended at the time, by Pickwick, to