'You know Fort Pitt?'

'Yes; I saw it yesterday.'

'If you will take the trouble to turn into the field which borders the trench, take the foot path to the left when you arrive at an angle of the fortification, and keep straight on, till you see me. I will precede you to a secluded place, where the affair can be conducted without fear of interruption. Nothing more to arrange, I think,' said the officer.

'I am not aware of anything more,' replied Mr Winkle. 'Good morning.'

'Good morning;' and the officer whistled a lively air as he strode away.

That morning's breakfast passed heavily off. Mr Tupman was not in a condition to rise, after the unwonted dissipation of the previous night.

Mr Snodgrass appeared to labour under a poetical depression of spirits; and even Mr Pickwick evinced an unusual attachment to silence and soda - water. Mr Winkle eagerly watched for his opportunity: it was not long wanting. Mr Snodgrass proposed a visit to the castle, and as Mr Winkle was the only other member of the party disposed to walk, they went out together.