THE FIRST ray of light which brightens the darkness of the obscurity which hides the earlier history of the career of the immortal Mr Pickwick, comes from reading the following entry in the Transactions of the Pickwick Club. The editor of these papers is extremely pleased to present these to his readers, because they prove the careful attention, indefatigable energy, and fine judgement with which he has conducted his search through the many documents he has been given.
'May 12, 1827. Joseph Smiggers, Esq., P.V.P.M.P.C. [Perpetual Vice-President--Member Pickwick Club], presiding. Everyone has agreed that-'
'This Association has heard read, with feelings of complete satisfaction, and total approval, the paper by Samuel Pickwick, Esq., G.C.M.P.C. [General Chairman - Member Pickwick Club], called "Speculations on the Source of the Hampstead Ponds, with some Observations on the Theory of Tittlebats". This Association warmly thanks Samuel Pickwick, Esq., G.C.M.P.C., for this paper.
Ray: A line of light (e.g. from a flashlight) Obscurity: Something hidden or unknown Immortal: Someone who does not die, or who is always remembered Transactions: Exchange of words or actions Indefatigable: Never getting tired
Conducted: Done, performed Judgement: Choosing the right thing to do Esq: A title like 'Mr' (not much used today) Presiding: In charge of a meeting
Association: A club of people interested in the same thing Speculations: Unproven ideas Hampstead: Part of London with a large park Tittlebats: A made-up word by Dickens