'Here - no I'm not. But you'd better. This is a good house - nice beds - Wright's, the next hotel, is dear - very dear. It costs half-a-crown extra if you look at the waiter. They charge you more if you eat at a friend's than if you dine in the coffee-room. Rum place - very.'

Mr Winkle turned to Mr Pickwick, and murmured a few words; a whisper passed from Mr Pickwick to Mr Snodgrass, from Mr Snodgrass to Mr Tupman, and there were nods of agreement from everybody.

Mr Pickwick addressed the stranger.

'You did us a very important service this morning, sir,' said he, 'will you allow us to offer our gratitude by asking for the favour of your company at dinner?'

'It would be a great pleasure. I'm not telling you what to eat, but broiled fowl and mushrooms - wonderful! What time?'

'Let me see,' replied Mr Pickwick, looking at his watch, 'it is now nearly three o'clock. Shall we say five?'