appeared to him that that might be an opening for a young gentleman of spirit combined with property, which would be worthy of his attention.

But what did I think? He had great confidence in my opinion, and what did I think? I gave it as my opinion. “Wait a bit!” The united vastness and distinctness of this view so struck him, that he no longer asked if he might shake hands with me, but said he really must, — and did.

We drank all the wine, and Mr. Pumblechook pledged himself over and over again to keep Joseph up to the mark (I don't know what mark), and to render me efficient and constant service (I don't know what service).

He also made known to me for the first time in my life, and certainly after having kept his secret wonderfully well, that he had always said of me,