Chapter 18 of the Old Curiosity Shop This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information, auto-volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens Chapter 18 The Jolly Sand Boys was a small roadside inn of pretty ancient date, with a sign, representing three sand boys increasing their jollity with as many jugs of ale and backs of gold, creaking and swinging on its post on the opposite side of the road. As the travellers had observed that day many indications of their drawing nearer and nearer to the race town, such as gypsy camps, carts laden with gambling booths, and their appartenances, it inherent showmen of various kinds and beggars and trampers of every degree, all wending their way in the same direction. Mr. Codling was fearful of finding the accommodations forestalled. This fear increasing as he diminished the distance between himself and the hostelry, he quickened his pace and notwithstanding the burden he had to carry, maintained a round trot until he reached the threshold. Here, he had the gratification of finding that his fears were without foundation, for the landlord was leaning against the doorpost, looking lazily at the rain, which had by this time began to descend heavily, and no tinkling of cracked bell, nor boisterous shout, nor noisy chorus, gave note of company within. All alone, said Mr. Codling, putting down his burden and wiping his forehead. All alone as yet, rejoined the landlord, glancing at the sky, but we shall have more company tonight, I expect. Here, one of you boys carry that show into the barn, make haste in out of the wet tom. When it came on to rain, I told them to make the fire up, and there's a glorious blaze in the kitchen, I can tell you. Mr. Codling followed with a willing mind, and soon found that the landlord had not commanded his preparations without good reason. A mighty fire was blazing on the hearth and roaring up the wide chimney with a cheerful sound, with a large iron cauldron bubbling and simmering in the heat lent its pleasant aid to swell. There was a deep red, ruddy blush upon the room, and when the landlord stirred the fire, sending the flames skipping and leaping up, when he took off the lid of the iron pot and there rushed out a savoury smell, while the bubbling sound grew deeper and more rich, and an anxious steam came floating out, hanging in a delicious mist above their heads. When he did this, Mr. Codling's heart was touched. He sat down in the chimney corner and smiled. Mr. Codling sat smiling in the chimney corner, eyeing the landlord as with a roguish look he held the cover in his hand, and feigning that his doing so was needful to the welfare of the cookery, suffered the delightful steam to tickle the nostrils of his guest.  Mr. Codling drew his sleeve across his lips and said in a marmering voice, What is it? It's a stew of tripe, said the landlord smacking his lips, and cowheel smacking them again, and bacon smacking them once more, and steak smacking them for the fourth time, and peas, cauliflower, new potatoes, and sparrow grass, all working up together in one delicious gravy. Having come to the climax, he smacked his lips a great many times, and taking a long hearty sniff of the fragrance that was hovering about, put on the cover again with the air of one whose toils on earth were over. At what time will it be ready? Asked Mr. Codling faintly.  It'll be down to a turn at twenty-two minutes before eleven. Then, said Mr. Codling, fetch me a pint of warm ale, and don't let nobody bring into the room even so much as a biscuit till the time arrives. Notting his approval of this decisive and manly cause of procedure, the landlord retired to draw the beer, and presently returning with it, applied himself to warm the same in a small tin vessel shaped funnel-wise, for the convenience of sticking it far down in the fire and getting at the bright places. This was soon done, and he handed it over to Mr. Codling with that creamy froth upon the surface, which is one of the happy circumstances attendant on Malt Malt. Greatly softened by this soothing beverage, Mr. Codling now bethought him of his companions, and acquainted mine host of the sand-boys that their arrival might be shortly looked for. The rain was rattling against the windows and pouring down in torrents, and such was Mr. Codling's extreme amiability of mind, that he more than once expressed his earnest hope that they would not be so foolish as to get wet. At length they arrived, drenched with the rain and presenting a most miserable appearance, notwithstanding that Short had sheltered the child as well as he could under the skirts of his own coat, and they were nearly breathless from the haste they had made. But their steps were no sooner hurt upon the road, than the landlord, who had been at the outer door anxiously watching for their coming, rushed into the kitchen and took the cover off. The effect was electrical.  It is not very difficult to forget rain and mud by the side of a cheerful fire, and in a bright room, they were furnished with slippers and such dry garments as the house or their own bundles afforded, and ensconcing themselves, as Mr. Codling had already done, in the warm chimney corner, soon forgot their late troubles, or only remembered them as enhancing the delights of the present time. Overpowered by the warmth and comfort and the fatigue they had undergone, Nelly and the old man had not long taken their seats here, when they fell asleep. Who are they? whispered the landlord. Short shook his head, and wished he knew himself. Don't you know? asked the host, turning to Mr. Codling. Not I, he replied. They're no good, I suppose. They're no harm, said Short. Depend upon that. I tell you what, it's plain that the old man ain't in his right mind. If you haven't got anything newer than that to say, growl, Mr. Codling, glancing at the clock, you'd better let us fix our minds upon the supper and not disturb us. Hear me out, won't you? retorted his friend. It's very plain to me, besides, that they're not used to this way of life. Don't tell me that that handsome child has been in a habit of prowling about as she's done these last two or three days? I know better. Well, who does tell you she has? Growl, Mr. Codling, again glancing at the clock and from into the cauldron. Can't you think of anything more suitable to present circumstances than saying things and then contradicting them? I wish somebody would give you your supper. Return, Short. For there'll be no peace till you've got it. Have you seen how anxious the old man is to get on, always wanting to be further away, further away? Have you seen that? What then? muttered Thomas Codling. This then, said Short, he has given his friends the slip and persuaded this delicate young creature all along of her fondness for him to be his guide and travelling companion, where, too, he knows no more than the man in the moon. Now I'm not going to stand that. You're not going to stand that? cried Mr. Codling, glancing at the clock again and pulling his hair with both hands in a kind of frenzy. But whether occasioned by his companion's observation or the tardy pace of time, it was difficult to determine. Here's a world to live in. I, repeated Short emphatically and slowly, am not are going to stand it. I am not are going to see this fair young child are falling into bad hands and getting among people that she's no more fit for than they are to get among angels as their ordinary chums. Therefore, when they develop an intention of parting company from us, I shall take measures for detaining of them and restoring them to their friends, who I daresay have had their disconsolation pasted up on every wall in London by this time.  It's possible that there may be uncommon good sense in what you've said. If there is, and there should be a reward Short, remember that we are partners in everything. His companion had only time to nod a brief assent to this position for the child awoke at the instant. They had drawn close together during the previous whispering and now hastily separated and were rather awkwardly endeavoring to exchange some casual remarks in their usual tone when strange footsteps were heard without and fresh company entered. These were no other than four very dismal dogs who came pattering in one after the other, hated by an old bandy dog of particularly mournful aspect, who, stopping when the last of his followers had got as far as the door, erected himself upon his hind legs and looked round at his companions, who immediately stood up upon their hind legs in a grave and melancholy row. Nor was this the only remarkable circumstance about these dogs, for each of them wore a kind of little coat of some gaudy collar, trimmed with tarnished spangles, and one of them had a cap upon his head, tied very carefully under his chin, which had fallen down upon his nose and completely obscured one eye. Add to this that the gaudy coats were all wet through and discolored with rain, and that the wearers were splashed and dirty, and some idea may be formed of the unusual appearance of these new visitors to the jolly sand boys. Neither Short nor the Landlord nor Thomas Codling, however, was in the least surprised, merely remarking that these were Jerry's dogs and that Jerry could not be far behind. So there the dog stood, patiently winking and gaping and looking extremely hard at the boiling pot, until Jerry himself appeared, when they all dropped down at once and walked about the room in their natural manner. This posture it must be confessed did not much improve their appearance, as their own personal tails and their coat tails, both capital things in their way, did not agree together. Jerry, the manager of these dancing dogs, was a tall black whiskered man in a velvety and coat, who seemed well known to the Landlord and his guests, and accosted them with great cordiality. Disencumbering himself of a barrel organ which he placed upon a chair, and retaining in his hand a small whip wherewith to awe his company of comedians, he came up to the fire to dry himself and entered into conversation. Your people don't usually travel in character, do they? said Short, pointing to the dresses of the dogs. It must come expensive if they do. No, replied Jerry. No, it's not the custom with us, but we've been playing a little on the road today, and we come out with a new wardrobe at the races, so I didn't think it worth while to stop the undress down Pedro. This was addressed to the dog with the cap on, who, being a new member of the company and not quite certain of his duty, kept his unobscured eye anxiously on his master, and was perpetually starting upon his hind legs when there was no occasion and falling down again. I've got animal here, said Jerry, putting his hand into the capacious pocket of his coat, and diving into one corner as if you were feeling for a small orange or an apple or some such article. Our animal here, what I think you know something of, Short? Ah, cried Short. Let's have a look at him. Here he is, said Jerry, producing a little terrier from his pocket. He was once a toby of yours, wasn't he? In some versions of the great drama of Punch, there is a small dog. A modern innovation supposed to be the private property of that gentle man whose name is always toby. This toby has been stolen in youth from another gentle man and fraudulently sold to the confiding hero, who, having no guile himself, has no suspicion that it lurks in others. But toby, entertaining a grateful recollection of his old master and scorning to attach himself to any new patrons, not only refuses to smoke a pipe at the bidding of Punch, but to mark his old fidelity more strongly, seizes him by the nose and rings the same with violence, at which instance of canon attachment the spectators are deeply affected. This was the character which the little terrier in question had once sustained. If there had been any doubt upon the subject, he would speedily have resolved it by his conduct. For not only did he, on seeing Short, give the strongest tokens of recognition, but catching sight of the flat box he barked so furiously at the paced bored nose, which he knew was inside, that his master was obliged to gather him up and put him into his pocket again, to the great relief of the whole company. The landlord now busied himself in laying the cloth, in which process Mr. Codling obligingly assisted by setting forth his own knife and fork in the most convenient place, and establishing himself behind them. When everything was ready, the landlord took off the cover for the last time, and then indeed there burst forth such a goodly promise of supper, that if he had offered to put it on again, or had hinted at postponement, he would certainly have been sacrificed on his own half. However, he did nothing of the kind, but instead thereof assisted a stout servant girl in turning the contents of the cauldron into a large terrine. A proceeding which the dogs prove against various hot splashes which fell upon their noses, watched with terrible eagerness. At length, the dish was lifted on the table, the mugs avail having been previously set round, little Nell ventured to say grace, and supper began. At this juncture, the poor dogs were standing on their hind legs quite surprisingly. The child, having pity on them, was about to cast some morsels of food to them before she tasted it herself, hungry though she was, when their master interimposed. No, my dear, no! Not an item from anybody's hand but mine, if you please. That dog, said Jerry, pointing out the old leader of the troop and speaking in a terrible voice, lost a happening today. He goes without his supper. The unfortunate creature dropped upon his forelegs directly, wagged his tail, and looked imploringly at his master. You must be more careful, sir, said Jerry, walking coolly to the chair where he had placed the organ and setting the stop. Come here.  The dog immediately began to grind most mournful music. His master having shown him the whip resumed his seat and called up the others, who, at his directions, formed in a row, standing upright as a file of soldiers. Now, gentlemen, said Jerry, looking at them attentively. The dog whose name is called AIDS. The dogs whose names aren't called keep quiet. Callo. The lack individual whose name was called snapped up the morsel thrown towards him, but none of the others moved a muscle. In this manner they were fed at the discretion of their master. Meanwhile, the dog in disgrace ground hard at the organ, sometimes in quick time, sometimes in slow, but never leaving off for an instant. When the knives and forks rattled very much, or any of his fellows got an unusually large piece of fat, he accompanied the music with a short howl, but he immediately checked it on his master's looking round and applied himself with increased diligence to the old hundredth. End of chapter 18. Chapter 19 of The Old Curiosity Shop This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens supper was not yet over. When there arrived at the Jolly Sand Boys, two more travelers bound for the same haven as the rest, who had been walking in the rain for some hours and came in shining and heavy with water. One of these was the proprietor of a giant and a little lady without legs or arms, who had jogged forward in a van. The other, a silent gentleman who earned his living by showing tricks upon the cards and who had rather deranged the natural expression of his countenance by putting small leaden lozenges into his eyes and bringing them out at his mouth, which was one of his professional accomplishments. The name of the first of these newcomers was Vafin. The other, probably as a pleasant satire upon his ugliness, was called Sweet William. To render them as comfortable as he could, the landlord bestowed himself nimbly and in a very short time, both gentlemen were perfectly at their ease. How's the giant? said short, when they all sat smoking round the fire. Rather weak upon his legs, returned Mr. Vafin. I began to be afraid he's going at the knees. That's a bad look out, said short. I, bad indeed, replied Mr. Vafin, contemplating the fire with a sigh.  What becomes of old giants? said short, turning to him again after a little reflection. They're usually kept in carowinds to wade upon the dwarfs, said Mr. Vafin. The maintaining of them must come expensive when they can't be shown, eh? remarked short, eyeing him doubtfully. It's better that than letting him go upon the parish or about the straits, said Mr. Vafin. Once make a giant common and giants will never draw again. Look at wooden legs. If there was only one man with wooden leg, what a property it be. So he would. Observed the landlord and short both together. That's very true. Instead of which, pursued Mr. Vafin, if you were to advertise Shakespeare playing entirely by wooden legs, it's my belief you wouldn't draw sixpence. I don't suppose you would, said short, and the landlord said so too. This shows, you see, said Mr. Vafin, waving his pipe with an argumentative air. This shows the policy of keeping the used up giants still in the carowinds where they get food and lodging for nothing, all their lives, and in general, very glad they are to stop there. There was one giant, a blacken, as left his caravan some year ago and took to carrying coach bills about London, making himself as cheap as crossing sweepers. He died. I make no insinuation against anybody in particular, said Mr. Vafin, looking solemnly round. But he was ruining the trade, and he died. The landlord drew his breath hard and looked at the owner of the dogs who nodded and said gruffly that he remembered. I know you do, Jerry, said Mr. Vafin, with profound meaning. I know you remember it, Jerry, and the universal opinion was that it served him right. Why? I remember the time when old Monders had 3 and 20 wands. I remember the time when old Monders had in his cottage in Spathills in the winter time when the season was over eight mile and female dwarves setting down to dinner every day who was weighted on by eight old giants in green coats, red smalls, blue cotton stockings, and high lows. And there was one dwarf as had grown elderly in wishes who, whenever his giant wasn't quick enough to place him, used to stick pins in his legs, not being able to reach up any higher. I know that's a fact for Monders told it me himself. What about the dwarves when they get old? Inquired the landlord. The older a dwarf is, the better worth he is, returned Mr. Vafin. A gray-headed dwarf well wrinkled his beyond all suspicion, but a giant wake in the legs and not standing upright, keep him in the caravan but never show him, never show him for any persuasion that can be offered. While Mr. Vafin and his two friends smoked their pipes and beguiled a time with such conversation as this, the silent gentleman sat in a warm corner swallowing, or seeming to swallow, six penny worth of harpens for practice, balancing a feather upon his nose and rehearsing other feats of dexterity of that kind without paying any regard whatever to the company who in their turn left him utterly unnoticed. At length, the weary child prevailed upon her grandfather to retire and they withdrew, leaving the company yet seated around the fire and the docks fast asleep at a humble distance. After bidding the old man good night, Nell retired to her poor garret, but had scarcely closed the door when it was gently tapped at. She opened it directly and was a little startled by the sight of Mr. Thomas Codlin, whom she had left to all appearance, fast asleep downstairs. What is the matter? said the child. Nothing's the matter, my dear. Returned her visitor. I'm your friend. Perhaps you haven't thought so, but it's me that's your friend, not him. Not who? the child inquired. Short, my dear, I tell you what, said Codlin, for all is having a kind of way with him that you'd be very apt to like. I'm the real open-hearted man. I may not look it, but I am indeed. The child began to be alarmed, considering that the ale had taken effect upon Mr. Codlin, and that this commendation of himself was the consequence. Shorts very well and seems kind, resumed the misanthrope, but he overdoses it. Now I don't. Certainly, if there were any fault in Mr. Codlin's usual deportment, it was that he rather underdid his kindness to those about him than overdid it. But the child was puzzled and could not tell what to say. Take my advice, said Codlin. Don't ask me why, but take it. As long as you travel with us, keep us near me as you can. Don't offer to leave us, not on any account, but always stick to me and say that I'm your friend. Will you bear that in mind, my dear, and always say that it was me that was your friend? Say so, where and when? Inquired the child innocently. Oh, and nowhere in particular, replied Codlin, a little put out as it seemed by the question. I'm only anxious that you should think me so and do me justice. You can't think what an interest I have in you. Why didn't you tell me your little history that about you and the poor old gentleman? I'm the best advisor that ever was and so interested in you, so much more interested than short. I think they're breaking up downstairs.  God bless you. Recollect the friend. Codlin's the friend, not short. Shorts very well as far as he goes, but the real friend is Codlin, not short. Eeking out of these professions with a number of benevolent and protecting looks and the great fervor of manner, Thomas Codlin stole away on tiptoe, leaving the child in a state of extreme surprise. She was still ruminating upon his curious behavior when the floor of the crazy stairs and landing cracked beneath the tread of the other travelers who were passing to their beds. When they had all passed and the sound of their footsteps had died away, one of them returned and after a little hesitation and rustling in the passage as if he were doubtful what door to knock at, knocked at hers. Yes, said the child from within. It's me, short, a voice called through the keyhole. I only wanted to say that we must be off early tomorrow morning, my dear, because unless we get the start of the dogs and the conjurer, the villagers won't be worth a penny. You'll be sure to be starring early and go with us. I'll call you. The child answered in the affirmative and returning his good night heard him creep away. She felt some uneasiness at the anxiety of these men increased by the recollection of their whispering together downstairs and their slight confusion when she awoke, nor was she quite free from a misgiving that they were not the fittest companions she could have stumbled on. Her uneasiness, however, was nothing, weighed against her fatigue and she soon forgot it in sleep. Very early next morning, short fulfilled his promise and knocking softly at her door and treated that she would get up directly as the proprietor of the dogs was still snoring and if they lost no time they might get at a good deal in advance both of him and the conjurer who was talking in his sleep and from what he could be heard to say appeared to be balancing a donkey in his dreams. She started from her bed without delay and roused the old man with so much expedition that they were both ready as soon as short himself to that gentle man's unspeakable gratification and relief. After a very inceremonious and scrambling breakfast of which the staple commodities were bacon and bread and beer they took leave of the landlord and issued from the door of the jolly sand boys. The morning was fine and warm, the ground cool to the feet after the late rain, the hedges gaer and more green, the air clear and everything fresh and healthful. Surrounded by these influences they walked unpleasantly enough. They had not gone very far when the child was again struck by the altered behavior of Mr. Thomas Codlin who instead of plodding on sulkily by himself as he had here to foredone kept close to her and when he had an opportunity of looking at her and seen by his companion warned her by certain rye faces and jerks of the head not to put any trust in short but to reserve all confidences for Codlin. Neither did he confine himself to looks and gestures for when she and her grandfather were walking on beside their foreshad short and that little man was talking with his accustomed cheerfulness on a variety of indifferent subjects. Thomas Codlin testified his jealousy and distrust by following close at her heels and occasionally admonishing her ankles with the legs of the theater in a very abrupt and painful manner. All these proceedings naturally made the child more watchful and suspicious and she soon observed that whenever they halted to perform outside a village alehouse or other place Mr. Codlin while he went through his share of the entertainments kept his eye steadily upon her and the old man or with a show of great friendship and consideration invited the latter to lean upon his arm and so held him tight until the representation was over and they again went forward. Even short seemed to change in this respect and to mingle with his good nature something of a desire to keep them in safe custody. This increased the child's misgivings and made her yet more anxious and uneasy. Meanwhile they were drawing near the town where the races were to begin next day. Four, from passing numerous groups of gypsies and trampers on the road wending their way towards it and straggling out from every byway and cross-country lane they gradually fell into a stream of people some walking by the side of covered carts others with horses others with donkeys others toiling on with heavy loads upon their backs but all tending to the same point. The public houses, by the wayside, from being empty and noiseless as those in the remote parts had been now sent out boisterous shouts and clouds of smoke and from the misty windows clusters of broad red faces looked down upon the road.  The crowd grew thicker and more noisy. Guilt gingerbread in blanket stores exposed its glories to the dust and often a four-horse carriage dashing by obscured all objects in the gritty cloud it raised and left them stunned and blinded far behind. It was dark before they reached the town itself and long indeed the few last miles had been. Here all was tumult and confusion. The streets were filled with throngs of people. Many strangers were there it seemed by the looks they cast about. The church bells rang out their noisy peals and flags streamed from windows and housetops. In the large in-yards waiters flitted to and fro and ran against each other. Horses clattered on the uneven stones.  In the smaller public houses fiddles with all their might and mane were squeaking out the tune to staggering feet. Drunken men, oblivious of the burden of their song joined in a senseless howl which drowned the tinkling of the feeble bell and made them savage for their drink. Vagabond groups assembled round the doors to see the stroller woman dance and at their uproar to the shrill flageolet and deafening drum. Through this delirious scene the child, frightened and repelled by all she saw, led on her bewildered charge clinging close to her conductor and trembling less in the press she should be separated from him and left to find her way alone. Quickening their steps to get clear of all the roar and riot the ear length passed through the town and made for the race course which was upon an open heath situated on an eminence a full mile distant from its furthest bounds. Although there were many people here none of the best favoured or best clad busily erecting tents and driving stakes in the ground and hurrying to and fro with dusty feet and many a grumbled oath. Although there were tired children cradled on heaps of straw between the wheels of carts crying themselves to sleep and poor lean horses and donkeys just turned loose grazing among the men and women and pots and kettles and half-lighted fires and ends of candles flaring and wasting in the air for all this the child felt it an escape from the town and drew her breath more freely. After a scanty supper the purchase of which reduced her little stock so low that she had only a few happens with which to buy a breakfast on the morrow she and the old man lay down to rest in a corner of a tent and slept despite the busy preparations that were going on around them all night long. And now they had come to the time when they must beg their bread. Soon after sunrise in the morning she stole out from the tent and rambling into some fields at a short distance plucked a few wild roses and such humble flowers purposing to make them into little nosegays and offer them to the ladies in the carriages when the company arrived. Her thoughts were not idle when she was thus employed. When she returned and was seated beside the old man in one corner of the tent tying her flowers together while the two men lay dosing in another corner she plucked him by the sleeve and slightly glancing towards them said in a low voice Grandfather don't look at those I talk of and don't seem as if I spoke of anything but what I am about. What was that you told me before we left the old house that if they knew what we were going to do they would say that you were mad and part us? The old man turned to her with an aspect of wild terror but she checked him by a look and bidding him hold some flowers while she tied them up and so bringing her lips closer to his ear said I know that was what you told me you needn't speak dear I recollected very well it was not likely that I should forget it grandfather these men suspect that we have secretly left our friends and mean to carry us before some gentleman and have us taken care of and sent back if you let your hand tremble so we can never get away from them but if you are only quiet now we shall do so easily How? muttered the old man dear Nelly, how? they will shut me up in a stone room dark and cold and chain me up to the wall, Nell flog me with whips and never let me see thee more You're trembling again said the child keep close to me all day never mind them, don't look at them but me I shall find a time when we can still away when I do mind you come with me and do not stop or speak a word hush that's all Hello, er what are you up to, my dear? said Mr. Codlin raising his head and yawning then observing that his companion was fast asleep he added in an earnest whisper Codlin's the friend, remember not short making some nose gaze the child replied I am going to try and sell some these three days of the races will you have one as a present, I mean? Mr. Codlin would have risen to receive it but the child hurried towards him and placed it in his hand he stuck it in his buttonhole with an air of ineffable complacency for a misanthrope and leering exultingly at the unconscious short muttered, escalating himself down again Tom Codlin's the friend, by G as the morning wore on the tents assumed a gear and more brilliant appearance and long lines of carriages came rolling softly on the turf men who had lounged about all night in smock frocks and leather leggings came out in silken vests and hats and plumes as jugglers or mountain banks or in gorgeous liveries as soft-spoken servants at gambling booths or in sturdy human dress as decoys at unlawful games black-eyed egyptian girls hooded in showy handkerchiefs, sallied forth to tell fortunes and pale slender women with consumptive faces lingered upon the footsteps of ventriloquists and conjurers and counted the sixpences with anxious eyes long before they were gained as many of the children as could be kept within bounds were stowed away with all the other signs of dirt and poverty among the donkeys, carts and horses and as many as could not be thus disposed of running and out in all intricate spurts crept between people's legs and carriage wheels and came forth and harmed from underhose's hooves the dancing dogs, the stilts, the little lady and the tall man and all the other attractions with organs out of number and bands innumerable emerged from the holes and corners in which they had passed the night and flourished boldly in the sun along the unclear course short led his party sounding the brazen trumpet and reveling in the voice of punch and at his heels went Thomas Codling bearing the show as usual and keeping his eye on Nelly and her grandfather as they rather lingered in the rear the child bore upon her arm the little basket with her flowers and sometimes stopped with timid and modest looks to offer them at some gay carriage but alas, there were many bolder beggars there gypsies who promised husbands and other adepts in their trade and although some ladies smiled gently as they shook their heads and others cried to the gentleman beside them see what a pretty face they let the pretty face pass on and never thought that it looked tired or hungry there was but one lady who seemed to understand the child and she was one who sat alone in a handsome carriage while two young men in dashing clothes who had just dismounted from it talked and laughed loudly at a little distance appearing to forget her quite there were many ladies all around but they turned their backs or looked another way or at the two young men not unfavorably at them and left her to herself she motioned away a gypsy woman urgent to tell her fortune saying that it was told already and had been for some years but called the child towards her and taking her flowers put money into her trembling hand and bad her go home and keep it home for God's sake many a time they went up and down those long long lines seeing everything but the horses and the race when the bell rang to clear the cause going back to rest among the carts and donkeys and not coming out again until the heat was over many a time too was punched displayed in the full zenith of his humor but all this while the eye of Thomas Codling was upon them and to escape without notice was impracticable at length late in the day Mr. Codling pitched the show in a convenient spot and the spectators were soon in the very triumph of the scene the child sitting down with the old man close behind it had been thinking how strange it was that horses who were such fine honest creatures should seem to make vagabones of all the men they drew about them when a loud laugh at some extemporaneous criticism of Mr. Shorts having allusion to the circumstances of the day roused her from her meditation and caused her to look around if they were ever to get away and seen that was the very moment short was plying the quarter-staves vigorously and knocking the characters in the fury of the combat against the sides of the show the people were looking on with laughing faces and Mr. Codling had relaxed into a grim smile as his roving eye-detected hands going into waistcoat pockets and groping secretly for sixpences if they were ever to get away and seen that was the very moment they seized it and fled they made a path through booths and carriages and throngs of people and never once stopped to look behind the bell was ringing and the cause was cleared by the time they reached the ropes but they dashed across it insensible to the shouts and screeching that assailed them for breaking in upon its sanctity and creeping under the brow of the hill at a quick pace made for the open fields end of chapter 19 chapter 20 of The Old Curiosity Shop this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens chapter 20 day after day as he bent his steps homeward returning from some new effort to procure employment Kit raised his eyes to the window of the little room he had so much commended to the child and hoped to see some indication of her presence his own earnest wish coupled with the assurance he had received from Quilp filled him with the belief that she would yet arrive to claim the humble shelter he had offered and from the death of each day's hope another hope sprung up to live tomorrow I think they must certainly come tomorrow her mother said Kit lying aside his head with the weary air and sighing as he spoke they have been gone a week they surely couldn't stop away more than a week could they now the mother shook her head and reminded him how often he had been disappointed already for the matter of that said Kit you speak true and sensible enough as you always do mother still I do consider that a week is quite long enough for him to be rambling about don't you say so? quite long enough Kit longer than enough but they may not come back for all that Kit was for a moment disposed to be vexed by this contradiction and not the less so from having anticipated it in his own mind and knowing how just it was but the impulse was only momentary and the vexed look became a kind one before it had crossed the room then what do you think mother has become of them? you don't think they've gone to see anyhow? not gone for sailor certainly returned the mother with a smile but I can't help thinking that they have gone to some foreign country I say cried Kit with a rueful face don't talk like that mother I'm afraid they have and that's the truth she said it's the talk of all the neighbors and there are some even that know of their having been seen on board ship and can tell you the name of the place they've gone to which is more than I can my dear for it's a very hard one I don't believe it said Kit not a word of it I said a vital chatterboxes how should they know? they may be wrong of course returned the mother I can't tell about that though I don't think it's at all unlikely that they're in the right for the talk is that the old gentleman had put by a little money that nobody knew of not even that ugly little man you talk to me about what's his name? Quillp and that he and Miss Nell have gone to live abroad where it can be taken from them and they will never be disturbed that don't seem very far out of the way now do it? Kit scratched his head mournfully in reluctant admission that he did not and clambering up to the old nail took down the cage and set himself to clean it and to feed the bird his thoughts reverting from this occupation to the little old gentleman who had given him the shilling he suddenly recollected that it was the very day nay nearly the very hour at which the little old gentleman had said he should be at the notary's house again he no sooner remembered this then he hung up the cage with great precipitation and hastily explaining the nature of his errand went off at full speed to the appointed place it was some two minutes after the time when he reached the spot which was a considerable distance from his home but by great good luck the little old gentleman had not yet arrived at least there was no pony shays to be seen and it was not likely that he had come and gone again in so short a space greatly relieved to find that he was not too late Kit lent against a lamppost to take breath and waited the advent of the pony and his charge sure enough before long the pony came trotting around the corner of the street looking as obstinate as pony might and picking his steps as if he was spying about for the cleanest places and would by no means dirty his feet or hurry himself inconveniently behind the pony sat the little old gentleman and by the old gentleman's side sat the little old lady carrying just such a nose-gay as she had brought before the old gentleman the old lady the pony and the shays came up the street in perfect anonymity until they arrived within some half a dozen doors of the notary's house when the pony deceived by a brass plate beneath the tailor's knocker came to a halt and maintained by a sturdy silence that that was the house they wanted now sir will you are the goodness to go on this is not the place said the old gentleman the pony looked with great attention into a fire plug which was near him and appeared to be quite absorbed in contemplating it oh dear such a naughty whisker cried the old lady after being so good to and coming along so well I am quite ashamed of him I don't know what we are to do with him I really don't the pony having thoroughly satisfied himself as to the nature and properties of the fire plug looked into the air after his old enemies the flies and as there happened to be one of them tickling his ear at that moment he shook his head and whisked his tail after which he appeared full of thought but quite comfortable and collected the old gentleman having exhausted his powers of persuasion allotted to lead him whereupon the pony perhaps because he held this to be a sufficient concession perhaps because he happened to catch sight of the other brass plate or perhaps because he was in a spiteful humor darted off with the old lady and stopped at the right house leaving the old gentleman to come panting on behind it was then that Kit presented himself on the pony's head and touched his hat with a smile why bless me cried the old gentleman the lad is here my dear do you see I said I'd be here sir said Kit patting whisker's neck I hope you've had a pleasant ride sir he's a very nice little pony my dear said the old gentleman this is an uncommon lad a good lad I'm sure I'm sure he is rejoined the old lady a very good lad and I am sure he is a good son Kit acknowledged these expressions of confidence by touching his cat again and blushing very much the old gentleman then handed the old lady out and after looking at him with an approving smile they went into the house talking about him as they went Kit could not help feeling presently Mr. Weatherden smelling very hard that the nose gay came to the window and looked at him and after that Mr. Abel came and looked at him and after that the old gentleman and lady came and looked at him again and after that they all came and looked at him together which Kit feeling very much embarrassed by made a pretense of not observing therefore he patted the pony more and more and this liberty the pony most handsomely permitted the faces had not disappeared from the window many moments when Mr. Chuckster in his official coat and with his hat hanging on his head just as it happened to fall from its peg appeared upon the pavement and telling him he was wanted inside bet him go in and he would mind the chase the while in giving him this direction Mr. Chuckster remarked that he wished that he might be blessed if he could make out whether he Kit was precious raw or precious deep but intimated by distrustful shake of the head that he inclined to the latter opinion Kit entered the office in a great tremor but he was not used to going among strange ladies and gentlemen and the tin boxes and bundles of dusty papers had in his eyes an awful and venerable air Mr. Weatherden too was a bustling gentleman who talked loud and fast and all eyes were upon him and he was very shabby well boy said Mr. Weatherden you came to work out that chilling not to get another hay no indeed sir replied Kit taking courage to look up I never thought of such a thing father alive said the notary yet sir mother yes sir married again eh Kit made answer not without some indignation that she was a widow with three children and that as to her marrying again if the gentleman knew her he wouldn't think of such a thing at this reply Mr. Weatherden buried his nose in the flowers again and whispered behind the nosegate of the old gentleman that he believed the lad was as honest a lad as need be now said Mr. Garland when they had made some further inquiries of him I am not going to give you anything thank you sir Kit replied and quite seriously too for this announcement seemed to free him from the suspicion which the notary had hinted but resumed the old gentleman perhaps I may want to know something more about you so tell me where you live and I'll put it down in my pocket book Kit told him and the old gentleman wrote down the address with his pencil he had scarcely done so when there was a great uproar in the street and the old lady hurrying to the window cried that whisker had run away upon which Kit darted out to the rescue and the others followed it seemed that Mr. Checkster had been standing with his hands in his pockets looking carelessly at the pony and occasionally insulting him with such admonitions as stand still, be quiet, war and the like which by a pony of spirit cannot be born consequently the pony being deterred by no considerations of duty or obedience and not having before him the slightest fear of the human eye had at length started off and was at that moment rattling down the street Mr. Checkster with his cat off on the pen behind his ear hanging on in the rear of the chaise and making futile attempts to droid the other way to the unspeakable admiration of all beholders even in running away however whisker was perverse for he had not gone very far when he suddenly stopped and before assistance could be rendered commenced backing at nearly as quick a pace as he had gone forward by these means Mr. Checkster was pushed and hustled to the office again in a most inglorious manner and arrived in a state of great exhaustion and discomfort here the old lady then stepped into her seat at Mr. Abel whom they had come to fetch into his the old gentleman after reasoning with the pony on the extreme impropriety of his conduct and making the best amends in his power to Mr. Checkster took his place also and they drove away waving a farewell to the notary in his clerk and more than once turning to not kindly to kid as he watched them from the road end of chapter 20 chapter 21 of the old curiosity shop this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org the old curiosity shop by Charles Dickens chapter 21 kid turned away and very soon forgot the pony and the chaise and the little old lady and the little old gentleman and the little young gentleman to boot in thinking what could have become of his late master and his lovely grandchild who were the fountain head of all his meditations still casting about for some plausible means of accounting for their non-appearance and of persuading himself that they must soon return he bent his steps towards home attending to finish the task which the sudden recollection of his contract had interrupted and then to sally forth once more to seek his fortune for the day when he came to the corner of the court in which he lived lo and behold there was the pony again yes there he was looking more obstinate than ever and alone in the chaise keeping a steady watch upon his every wink sat Mr. Abel who lifting up his eyes by chance and seeing kid pass by nodded to him as though he would have nodded his head off kid wondered to see the pony again so near his own home too but it never occurred to him for what purpose the pony might have come there or where the old lady and the old gentleman had gone until he lifted the latch of the door and walking in found them seated in the room in conversation with his mother at which unexpected sight he pulled off his hat and made his best bow in some confusion we are here before you you see Christopher said Mr. Garland smiling yes sir said kid and as he said it he looked towards his mother for an explanation of the visit the gentleman's been kind enough my dear said she in reply to his mute interrogation to ask me whether you were in a good place or in any place at all and when I told him no you were not in any it was so good as to say that that we wanted a good lad in our house said the old gentleman and the old lady both together and that perhaps we might think of it if we found everything as we would wish it to be as this thinking of it plainly meant the thinking of engaging kid he immediately partook of his mother's anxiety and fell into a great flutter for the little old couple were very methodical and cautious and asked so many questions that he began to be afraid there was no chance of his success you see my good woman said Mrs. Garland to kid's mother that it's necessary to be very careful and particular in such a matter as this for we are only three in family and a very quiet regular folks and it would be a sad thing if we made any kind of mistake and found things different from what we hoped and expected to this kids mother replied that certainly it was quite true and quite right and quite proper and heaven forbid that she should shrink or have course to shrink from any inquiry into her character or that of her son who was a very good son though she was his mother in which respect she was bold to say he took after his father who was not only good son to his mother but the best of husbands and the best of fathers besides which kid could and would corroborate she knew and so would little Jacob and the baby likewise if they were old enough which unfortunately they were not though as they didn't know what a loss they had had perhaps it was a great deal better than they should be as young as they were and so kids mother wound up a long story by wiping her eyes with her apron and patting little Jacob's head who was rocking the cradle and staring with all his might at the strange lady and gentlemen when kids mother had done speaking the old lady struck in again and said that she was quite sure she was a very honest and very respectable person or she never would have expressed herself in that manner and that certainly the appearance of the children and the cleanliness of the house deserved great praise and it heard the utmost credit where at kids mother dropped a curtsy and became consoled then the good woman entered in a long and minute account of kids life and history from the earliest period down to that time not omitting to make mention of his miraculous fall out of a back parlor window when an infant of tender years or his uncommon sufferings in a state of measles which were illustrated by correct imitations of the plaintive manner in which he called for toast and water, day and night and said, don't cry mother I shall soon be better for proof of which statements reference was made to Mrs. Green Lodger at the cheese mongers round the corner and diverse other ladies and gentlemen in various parts of England and Wales and one Mr. Brown who was supposed to be then a corporal in the East Indies and who could of course be found with very little trouble within whose personal knowledge the circumstances had occurred this narration ended Mr. Garland put some questions to keep respecting his qualifications and general acquirements while Mrs. Garland noticed the children and hearing from kids mother certain remarkable circumstances which had attended the birth of each related certain other remarkable circumstances which had attended the birth of her own son Mr. Rehbu from which it appeared that both kids mother and herself had been above and beyond all other women of what condition or age so ever peculiarly hemmed in with perils and dangers lastly enquiry was made into the nature and extent of kids wardrobe and a small advance being made to improve the same he was formally hired at an annual income of six pounds over and above his board and lodging by Mr. and Mrs. Garland of Able Cottage Finchley it would be difficult to say which party appeared most pleased with this arrangement the conclusion of which was hailed with nothing but pleasant looks and cheerful smiles on both sides it was settled that kid should repair to his new abode on the next day but one in the morning and finally the little old couple after bestowing a bright half crown and little Jacob and another on the baby took their leaves being escorted as far as the street by their new attendant who held the objury at pony by the bridle while they took their seats and saw them drive away with a lightened heart well mother said kid hurrying back into the house I think my fortunes about made now I should think it was indeed kid rejoined his mother six pound a year only think ah said kid trying to maintain the gravity with the consideration of such as some demanded but grinning with delight in spite of himself there's a property kid drew a long breath when he had said this and putting his hands deep into his pockets as if there were one year's wages at least in each looked at his mother as though he saw through her and down an immense perspective of sovereigns beyond please God will make such a lady of you for Sunday's mother such a scholar of Jacob and the child of the baby such a room of one upstairs six pound a year him croaked a strange voice what's that about six pound a year what about six pound a year and as the voice made this inquiry Daniel Quilp walked in with Richard swivel or at his heels who said he was to have six pound a year said Quilp looking sharply round did the old man say it or did little now say it and what's he to have it for and where are they are the good woman was so much alarmed by the sudden apparition of this unknown piece of ugliness that she hastily caught the baby from its cradle and retreated into the farthest corner of the room while little Jacob sitting upon his stool with his hands on his knees looked full at him in a species of fascination roaring lastily all the time Richard swivel it took an easy observation of the family over Mr Quilp's head and Quilp himself with his hands in his pockets smiled in an exquisite enjoyment of the commotion he occasioned don't be frightened mistress said Quilp after a pause your son knows me I don't hate babies I don't like him it will be as well to stop that young screamer though in case I should be tempted to do him a mischief hello sir will you be quiet little Jacob stemmed the cause of two tears which he was squeezing out of his eyes and instantly subsided into a silent horror mind you don't break out again you villain said Quilp looking stern at him or I'll make faces at you and throw you into fits I will now you sir why haven't you been to me as you promised what should I come for retorted kid I hadn't any business with you no more than you had with me here mistress said Quilp turning quickly away and appealing from kid to his mother when did his old master come or send you a last is he here now if not where is he gone he has not been here at all she replied I wish we knew where they have gone for it would make my son a good deal easier in his mind and me too if you are the gentleman named Mr. Quilp I should have thought you'd have known and so I told him only this very day hmm muttered Quilp evidently disappointed to believe that this was true that's why you tell this gentleman too is it if the gentleman comes to ask the same question I can't tell him anything else sir and I only wish I could for our own sakes was the reply Quilp glanced at Richard Swivola and observed that having met him on the threshold he assumed that he had come in search of some intelligence of the fugitives he supposed he was right yes said Dick that was the object of the present expedition I fancied it possible but let us go ring fancies now I'll begin it you seem disappointed observed Quilp a baffler sir, a baffler that's all returned Dick I have entered upon a speculation which has proved a baffler and a being of brightness and beauty will be offered up a sacrifice at Chegg's altar that's all sir the dwarf I had Richard with a sarcastic smile but Richard who had been taking a rather strong lunch with a friend observed him not and continued to deplore his fate with mournful and despondent looks Quilp plainly discerned that there was some secret reason for his visit and his uncommon disappointment and in the hope that there might be means of mischief lurking beneath it resolved to warm it out he had no sooner adopted this resolution than he conveyed as much honesty into his face as it was capable of expressing and sympathized with Mr. Swivola exceedingly I am disappointed myself said Quilp out of mere friendly feeling for them but you have real reasons private reasons I have no doubt for your disappointment and therefore it comes heavier than mine why of course it does Dick observed testily upon my word I am very sorry very sorry I'm rather cast down myself as we are companions in adversity shall we be companions in the surest way of forgetting it if you had no particular business now to lead you in another direction urged Quilp plucking him by the sleeve and looking slightly up into his face out of the corners of his eyes there is a house by the water side where they have some of the noblest skidam reputed to be smuggled but that's between ourselves that can be got in all the world the landlord knows me there is a little summer house overlooking the river where we might take a glass of this delicious liquor with a width of the best tobacco it's in this case and of the rarest quality to my certain knowledge and be perfectly snug and happy could we possibly contrive it or is there any very particular engagement that peremptorily takes you another way Mr Swibola as the dwarf spoke Dick's face relaxed into a compliant smile and his brows slowly invent by the time he had finished Dick was looking down at Quilp in the same slime manner as Quilp was looking up at him and there remained nothing more to be done but to set out for the house in question this they did straight away the moment their backs were turned little Jacob thawed and resumed his crying from the point where Quilp had frozen him the summer house of which Mr Quilp had spoken was a rugged wooden box rotten and bare to sea which overhung the river's mud and threatened to slide down into it the tavern to which it belonged was a crazy building sapped and undermined by the rats and only upheld by great bars of wood which were reared against its walls and had prompted up so long that even they were decaying and yielding with their load and of a windy night might be heard to creak and crack as if the whole fabric were about to come toppling down the house stood if anything so old and feeble could be said to stand on a piece of waste ground blighted with the unwholesome smoke of factory chimneys and echoing the clank of iron wheels and rush of troubled water its internal accommodations amply fulfilled the promise of the outside the rooms were low and damp the clammy walls were pierced with chinks and hose the rotten floors had sunk from their level the very beams started from their places and worn the timid stranger from their neighborhood to this inviting spot in treating him to observe its beauties as they passed along Mr. Quill bled Richard Swivola and on the table of the summer house scored deep with many agallos and initial letter there soon appeared a wooden keg full of the vaunted liquor drawing it off into the glasses with the skill of a practiced hand and mixing it with about a third part of water Mr. Quill passed to Richard Swivola his portion and lighting his pipe from an end of a candle in a very old and battered lantern drew himself together upon a seat and puffed away is it good? said Quill as Richard Swivola smacked his lips is it strong and fiery? does it make you wink and choke and your eyes water and your breath come short? does it? does it? cried Dick throwing away part of the contents of his glass and filling it up with water why man, you don't mean to tell me that you drink such fire as this? no rejoined Quill not drink it look here and here and here again not drink it? as he spoke Daniel Quill drew off and drank three small glassfuls of the raw spirit and then with a horrible grimace took a great many pulls at his pipe and swallowing the smoke discharged it in a heavy cloud from his nose this feat accomplished he drew himself together in his former position and laughed excessively give us a toast cried Quill rattling on the table in a dexterous manner with his fist and elbow alternately in a kind of tune a woman, a beauty let's have a beauty for our toast and empty our glasses to the last drop her name come if you want a name said Dick here's Sophie Wackles Sophie Wackles? screamed the dwarf Miss Sophie Wackles that is Mrs. Richard Swivola that shall be that shall be ha ha ha ah said Dick you might have said that a few weeks ago but it won't do now my buck immolating herself upon the shrine of Cheggs poisoned Cheggs cut Chegg's ears off rejoined Quill a worn hear of Cheggs her name is Swivola or nothing I'll drink her health again and her fathers and her mothers and to all her sisters and brothers the glorious family of the Wackleses all the Wackleses in one glass down with it to the drags well said Richard Swivola stopping short in the act of raising the glass to his lips and looking at the dwarf in a species of stupor as he flourished his arms and legs about you are a jolly fellow but of all the jolly fellows that I ever saw heard of you have the queerest and the most extraordinary way with you upon my life you have this candid declaration tended rather to increase than restrain Mr. Quilp's eccentricities and Richard Swivola astonished to see him in such a roistering vein and drinking not a little himself for company began imperceptibly to become more companionable and confiding so that being judiciously led on by Mr. Quilp he grew at last very confiding indeed having once got him into this mood and knowing now the key note to strike whenever he was at a loss Daniel Quilp's task was comparatively an easy one and he was soon in possession of the whole details of the scheme contrived between the easy dick and his more designing friend stop said Quilp that's the thing that's the thing it can be brought about it shall be brought about there's my hand upon it I am your friend from this minute what do you think there's still a chance in quite dick in surprise at this encouragement a chance echo the dwarf a certainty Sophie Wackles may become a chagor anything else she likes but not a Swivola oh you lucky dog he's richer than any Jew alive you're a maid man I see in you now nothing but Nellie's husband rolling in gold and silver I'll help you it shall be done mind my words it shall be done but how said dick there's plenty of time rejoin the dwarf and it shall be done we'll sit down and talk it over again all the way through fill your glass while I'm gone I shall be back directly, directly with these hasty words Daniel Quilp withdrew into a dismantled skittle ground behind the public house and throwing himself upon the ground actually screamed and rolled about in uncontrollable delight here's sport he cried sport ready to my hand all invented and arranged and only to be enjoyed it was this shallow pated fellow who made my bones ache the other day was it it was his friend and fellow plotter Mr. Trent that once made eyes at Mrs. Quilp and Lid and looked was it after laboring for two or three years in their precious scheme to find that they've got a beggar at last and one of them tied for life ha ha ha he shall marry Nell he shall have her and I'll be the first man when the knots tied hard and fast to tell him what they've gained and what I've helped them to here will be a clearing of old scores here will be a time to remind them what a capital friend I was and how I helped them to the heiress ha ha ha in the height of his ecstasy Mr. Quilp had liked to have met with a disagreeable check for rolling very near a broken dog kennel there leapt forth a large fierce dog who but that his chain was of the shortest would have given him a disagreeable salute as it was the dwarf remained upon his back in perfect safety taunting the dog with hideous faces and triumphing over him in his inability to advance another inch though there were not a couple of feet between them why don't you come and bite me why don't you come and tear me to pieces you coward said Quilp hissing and warring the animal till he was nearly mad you're afraid you bully you're afraid you know you are the dog tore and strained at his chain with starting eyes and furious bark but there the dwarf lay snapping his fingers with gestures of defiance and contempt when he had sufficiently recovered from his delight he rose and with his arms a Kimbo achieved a kind of demon dance around the kennel just without the limits of the chain driving the dog quite wild having by this means composed his spirits and put himself in a pleasant train he returned to his unsuspicious companion whom he found looking at the tide with exceeding gravity and thinking of that same gold and silver which Mr. Quilp had mentioned end of chapter 21 chapter 22 of the old curiosity shop this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org the old curiosity shop by Charles Dickens chapter 22 the remainder of that day and the whole of the next were a busy time for the Nobles family to whom everything connected with kids outfit and departure was matter of as great moment as if he had been about to penetrate into the interior of Africa or to take a cruise around the world it would be difficult to suppose that there ever was a box which was opened and shut so many times within 4 and 20 hours as that which contained his wardrobe and necessaries and certainly there never was one which to two small eyes presented such a mine of clothing as this mighty chest with its three shirts and proportionate allowance of stockings and pocket handkerchiefs disclosed to the astonished vision of little Jacob at last it was conveyed to the carriers at whose house at Finchley kit was to find it next day and the box being gone there remained but two questions for consideration firstly whether the carrier would lose or dishonestly feign to lose the box upon the road secondly whether kids mother perfectly understood how to take care of herself in the absence of her son I don't think there's hardly a chance of his really losing it but carriers are under great temptation to pretend they lose things no doubt said Mrs. Nobles apprehensively in reference to the first point no doubt about it returned Kit with a serious look upon my word mother I don't think it was right to trust it to itself somebody ought to have gone with it I'm afraid we can't help it now said his mother but it was foolish and wrong people oughtn't to be tempted Kit inwardly resolved that he would never attempt a carrier anymore save with an empty box and having formed this Christian determination he turned his thoughts to the second question you know you must keep up your spirits mother and not be lonesome because I'm not at home I shall very often be able to look in when I come into town I dare say and I shall send you a letter sometimes and when the quarter comes round I can get holiday of course and then see if we don't take little Jacob to the play let him know what oysters means I hope plays mightn't be sinful Kit but I'm the most afraid said Mrs. Nobles I know who has been putting that in your head rejoined her son disconsolately that's little battle again now I say mother pray don't take to going there regularly for if I was to see your good humid face that has always made him cheerful turn into a grievous one and the baby trying to look grievous too and to call itself a young sinner bless its heart and a child of the devil which is calling his dead father names if I was to see this and see little Jacob looking grievous likewise I should so take it to heart that I'm sure I should go and list for a soldier and run my head on purpose against the first cannonball I saw coming my way oh Kit don't talk like that I would indeed mother and unless you want to make me feel very wretched and uncomfortable you'll keep that bow on your bonnet which you'd more than half a mind to pull off last week can you suppose there's any arm in looking as cheerful and being as cheerful as our poor circumstances will permit do I see anything in the way I'm made which cause upon me to be a sniveling solemn whispering chap sneaking about as if I couldn't help it and expressing myself in a most unpleasant snuffle on the contrary don't I see every reason why I shouldn't just hear this ha ha ha and that is natural as walking and as good for the health ha ha ha and that is natural as a sheep's bleeding or a pig's grunting or a horse's neighing or a bird's singing ha ha ha isn't it mother there was something contagious in Kit's love for his mother who had looked grave before first subsided into a smile and then fell to joining in it heartily which occasioned Kit to say that he knew it was natural and to laugh them all Kit and his mother, loving together in a pretty loud key woke the baby who? finding that there was something very jovial and agreeable in progress was no sooner in its mother's arms than it began to kick and laugh most vigorously this new illustration of his argument so tickled Kit that he fell backward in his chair in a state of exhaustion pointing at the baby and shaking his side still he rocked again after recovering twice or thrice and as often relapsing he wiped his eyes and said grace and a very cheerful meal their scanty supper was with more kisses and hugs and tears than many young gentlemen who start upon their travels and leave well stocked homes behind them would deem within the bounds of probability if mother so low could be here and set down Kit left the house at an early hour next morning and set out to walk to Finchley feeling a sufficient pride in his appearance to have warranted his excommunication from little Bethel from that time forth if he had ever been one of that mournful congregation lest anybody should feel a curiosity to know how Kit was clad it may be briefly remarked that he wore no livery but was dressed in a coat of pepper and salt with waistcoat of canary color and nether garments of iron gray besides these glories he shone in the last river new pair of boots and an extremely stiff and shiny hat which on being stuck anywhere with the knuckles sounded like a drum and in this attire rather wondering that he attracted so little attention and attributing the circumstance to the insensibility of those who got up early he made his way towards able cottage without encountering any more remarkable adventure on the road than meeting a lad in a brimless hat the exact counterpart of his old one on whom he bestowed half the sixpence he possessed Kit arrived in cause of time at the carrier's house where, to the lasting honor of human nature he found the box in safety receiving from the wife of this immaculate man a direction to Mr. Garland's he took the box upon his shoulder and repaired the other directly to be sure it was a beautiful little cottage with a thatched roof and little spires at the gable ends and pieces of stained glass in some of the windows almost as large as pocket books on one side of the house was a little stable just the size for the pony with a little room over it just the size for Kit white curtains were fluttering and birds in cages that looked as bright as if they were made of gold were singing at the windows plants were arranged on either side of the path and clustered about the door and the garden was bright with flowers in full bloom which shed a sweet order all around and had a charming and elegant appearance everything within the house and without seemed to be the perfection of neatness and order in the garden there was not a weed to be seen and to judge from some dapper gardening tools a basket and a pair of gloves which were lying in one of the walks old Mr. Garland had been at work in it that very morning Kit looked about him and admired and looked again and this a great many times before he could make up his mind to turn his head another way and ring the bell there was abundance of time to look about him again though when he had rung it for nobody came so after ringing it twice or thrice he sat down upon his box and waited he rang the bell a great many times and yet nobody came but at last as he was sitting upon the box thinking about giants, castles and princesses tied up to pegs by the hair of their heads and dragons bursting out from behind gates and other incidents of the like nature common in story books to youths of low degree on their first visit to strange houses the door was gently opened and a little servant girl very tidy, modest and demure but very pretty too, appeared I suppose you're Christopher sir? said the servant girl Kit got off the box and said yes he was I'm afraid you've rung a good many times perhaps? she rejoined but we couldn't hear you because we've been catching the pony Kit rather wondered what this meant but as he couldn't stop there asking questions he shouldered the box again and followed the girl into the hole where through a back door he described Mr. Garland leading whisker in triumph up the garden to that self-willed pony head as he afterwards learned dodged the family around a small paddock in the rear for one hour and three quarters the old gentleman received him very kindly and so did the old lady whose previous good opinion of him was greatly enhanced by his wiping his boots on the mat until the soles of his feet burnt again he was then taken into the parlour to be inspected in his new clothes and when he had been surveyed several times and had afforded by his appearance unlimited satisfaction he was taken into the stable where the pony received him with uncommon complacence and then sent to the little chamber he had already observed which was very clean and comfortable and then sent to the garden in which the old gentleman told him he would be taught to employ himself and where he told him besides what great things he meant to do to make him comfortable and happy if he found he deserved it all these kindnesses Kit acknowledged with various expressions of gratitude and so many touches of the new head that the brim suffered considerably when the old gentleman had said all he had to say in the way of promise and advice and Kit had said all he had to say in the way of assurance and thankfulness he was handed over again to the old lady who was summoning the little servant girl whose name was Barbara and attracted her to take him downstairs and give him something to eat and drink after his walk downstairs therefore Kit went and at the bottom of the stairs there was such a kitchen as never was before seen or heard of out of a toy shop window with everything in it as bright and glowing and as precisely ordered to as Barbara herself and in this kitchen came sat himself down at a table as white as a tablecloth to eat cold meat and drink small ale and use his knife and fork the more awkwardly because there was an unknown Barbara looking on and observing him it did not appear however that there was anything remarkably tremendous about this strange Barbara who having lived a very quiet life blushed very much and was quite as embarrassed and uncertain what she ought to say or do as Kit could possibly be when he had sat for some little time attentive to the ticking of the sober clock he ventured to glance curiously at the dresser and there among the plates and dishes were Barbara's little work box with a sliding lid to shut in the bowls of cotton and Barbara's prayer book and Barbara's hymn book and Barbara's Bible Barbara's little looking glass hung in a good light near the window and Barbara's bonnet was on a nail behind the door from all these mute signs and tokens of her presence he naturally glanced at Barbara herself who sat as mute as they shelling peas into a dish and just when Kit was looking at her eyelashes and wondering quite in the simplicity of his heart what color her eyes might be it perversely happened that Barbara raised her head a little to look at him when both pair of eyes were hastily withdrawn and Kit lent over his plate and Barbara over her pea-shells each in extreme confusion at having been detected by the other End of Chapter 22 Chapter 23 of the Old Curiosity Shop This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org The Old Curiosity Shop by Charles Dickens Chapter 23 Mr. Richard Swivola wending homework from the wilderness for that was the appropriate name of Quilp's choice retreat after a sinuous and corkscrew fashion with many checks and stumbles after stopping suddenly and staring about him then a suddenly running forward for a few paces and a suddenly halting again and shaking his head doing everything with a jerk and nothing by premeditation Mr. Richard Swivola wending his way homeward after this fashion which is considered by evil-minded men to be symbolical of intoxication and is not held by such persons to denote that state of deep wisdom and reflection in which the actor knows himself to be began to think that possibly he had misplaced his confidence and that the dwarf might not be precisely the sort of person to whom to entrust a secret of such delicacy and importance and being let and tempted on by this remorseful thought into a condition which the evil-minded class before referred to would term the maudlin state or stage of drunkenness it occurred to Mr. Swivola to cast his head upon the ground and moan crying aloud that he was an unhappy orphan and that if he had not been an unhappy orphan things had never come to this let an infant by my parents at an early age said Mr. Swivola, bewailing his hard-blood cast upon the world in my tenderest period and thrown upon the mercies of a deluding dwarf who can wander at my weakness he has a miserable orphan for you here said Mr. Swivola raising his voice to a high pitch and looking sleepily round in a miserable orphan then said somebody hard by let me be a father to you Mr. Swivola swayed himself to and fro to preserve his balance and looking into a kind of haze which seemed to surround him at last perceived two eyes dimly twinkling through the mist which he observed after a short time in the neighborhood of a nose and mouth casting his eyes down towards that water in which with reference to a man's face his legs are usually to be found he observed that the face had a body attached and when he looked more intently he was satisfied that the person was Mr. Quilp who indeed had been in his company all the time but whom he had some vague idea of having left a mile or two behind you have deceived an orphan sir said Mr. Swivola solemnly I am a second father to you replied Quilp you are my father sir retorted dick being alright myself sir I request to be left alone instantly sir what a funny fellow you are cried Quilp go sir returned dick leaning against a post and waving his hand go deceiver go someway sir perhaps you're waken from Bledger's drain to know the grief of orphans forsaken will you go sir the dwarf taking no heed of this adoration Mr. Swivola advanced with the view of inflicting upon him condyne justizement but forgetting his purpose or changing his mind before he came close to him he seized his hand and vowed eternal friendship declaring with an agreeable frankness that from that time forth they were brothers in everything but personal appearance then he taught his secret over again with the addition of being pathetic on the subject of Miss Waggles who he gave Mr. Quilp to understand was the occasion of any slight incoherency he might observe in his speech at that moment which was attributable sorely to the strength of his affection and not to rosy wine or other fermented liquor and then they went on arm in arm very lovingly together I am a sharp said Quilp to him at parting as sharp as a ferret and as cunning as a weasel you bring Trent to me assure him that I am his friend though I fear he a little distrust me I don't know why I have not deserved it and you've both of you made your fortunes in perspective that's the worst of it return Dick these fortunes in perspective look such a long way off but they look smaller than they really are on that account said Quilp pressing his arm you'll have no conception of the value of your prize until you draw close to it mark that do you think not said Dick I, I do and I am certain of what I say that's better return the dwarf you bring Trent to me tell him I am his friend and yours why shouldn't I be there is no reason why you shouldn't certainly replied Dick and perhaps there are great many why you should at least there would be nothing strange in your wanting to be my friend if you were a choice spirit but then you know you're not a choice spirit I'm not a choice spirit cried Quilp devil of it sir return Dick a man of your appearance couldn't be if you're any spirit at all sir you're an evil spirit choice spirits added Dick smiting himself on the breast are quite a different looking sort of people you might take your oath of that sir Quilp glanced at his free-spoken friend with a mingled expression of cunning and dislike and ringing his hand almost at the same moment declared that he was an uncommon character and had his warmest esteem with that they parted Mr. Swivola to make the best of his way home and sleep himself sober and Quilp to cogitate upon the discovery he had made and exult in the prospect of the rich field of enjoyment and reprisal it opened to him it was not without great reluctance and misgiving that Mr. Swivola next morning his head wracked by the fumes of the renowned skidarm repaired to the lodging of his friend Trent which was in the roof of an old house in an old ghostly inn and recounted by very slow degrees what had yesterday taken place between him and Quilp nor what is without great surprise and much speculation on Quilp's probable motives nor without many bitter comments on Dick Swivola's folly that his friend received the tale I don't defend myself Fred said the penitent Richard but the fellow has such a queer way with him and is such an artful dog that first of all he set me upon thinking whether there was any arm in telling him and while I was thinking, screwed it out of me if you had seen him drink and smoke as I did you couldn't have kept anything from him he's a salamander you know that's what he is without inquiring whether salamanders were of necessity good confidential agents or whether a fireproof man was as a matter of course trustworthy Frederick Trent threw himself into a chair and burying his head in his hands endeavored to fathom the motives which had led Quilp to insinuate himself into Richard Swivola's confidence for that the disclosure was of his seeking and had not been spontaneously revealed by Dick was sufficiently plain from Quilp's seeking his company and enticing him away the dwarf had twice encountered him when he was endeavoring to obtain intelligence of the fugitives this perhaps as he had not shown any previous anxiety about them was enough to awaken suspicion in the breast of a creature so jealous and distrustful by nature setting aside any additional impulse to curiosity that he might have derived from Dick's incorsious manner but knowing the scheme they had planned why should he offer to assist it this was a question more difficult of solution but as naves generally overreach themselves by imputing their own design to others the idea immediately presented itself that some circumstances of irritation between Quilp and the old man arising out of their secret transactions and not unconnected perhaps with his sudden disappearance now rendered the former desirous of avenging himself upon him by seeking to entrap the sole object of his love and anxiety into a connection of which he knew he had a dread and hatred as Frederick Trent himself utterly regardless of his sister had this object at heart only second to the hope of gain it seemed to him the more likely to be Quilp's main principle of action once investing the dwarf with the design of his own in abetting them which the attainment of their purpose would serve it was easy to believe him sincere and hearty in the cause and as there could be no doubt of his proving a powerful and useful auxiliary Trent determined to accept his invitation and go to his house that night and if what he said and did confirmed him in the impression he had formed to let him share the labor of their plan but not the profit having resolved these things in his mind and arrived at this conclusion he communicated to Mr Svivalor as much of his meditations as he thought proper Dick would have been perfectly satisfied with less and giving him the day to recover himself from his late salamandering accompanied him at evening to Mr Quilp's house mighty glad Mr Quilp was to see them or mightily glad he seemed to be and fearfully polite Mr Quilp was to Mrs Quilp and Mrs Giniwin and very sharp was the look he cast on his wife to observe how she was affected by the recognition of young Trent Mrs Quilp was as innocent as her own mother of any emotion painful or pleasant which the sight of him awakened but as her husband's glance made her timid and confused and uncertain what to do or what was required of her Mr Quilp did not fail to assign her embarrassment to the cause he had in his mind and while he chuckled at his penetration was secretly exasperated by his jealousy nothing of this appeared however on the contrary Mr Quilp was all blandness and suavity and presided over the case bottle of rum with extraordinary open-heartedness why let me see said Quilp it must be a matter of nearly two years since we were first acquainted nearer three I think said Trent nearer three cried Quilp how fast time flies does it seem as long as that to you Mrs Quilp yes I think it seems full three years Quilp was the unfortunate reply oh indeed ma'am thought Quilp you have been pining have you very good ma'am it seems to me but yesterday that you went out of demerara in the mariaan said Quilp but yesterday I declare well I like a little wildness I was wild myself once Mr Quilp accompanied this admission with such an awful wink indicative of old rovings and backslidings that Mrs Ginny-Winn was indignant and could not forebear from remarking under her breath that he might at least put off his confessions until his wife was absent for which act of boldness and insubordination Mr Quilp first stared her out of countenance and then drank her health ceremoniously I thought you'd come back directly Fred I always thought that said Quilp setting down his glass and when the mariaan returned with you on board instead of a letter to say what a contrite heart you had and how happy you were in the situation that had been provided for you I was amused exceedingly amused the young man smiled but not as though the theme was the most agreeable one that could have been selected for his entertainment and for that reason Quilp pursued it I always will say he resumed that when a rich relation having two young people sisters or brothers or brother and sister dependent on him attaches himself exclusively to one and casts off the other he does wrong the young man made a movement of impatience but Quilp went on as calmly as if he were discussing some abstract question in which nobody present had the slightest personal interest it's very true said Quilp that your grandfather urged repeated forgiveness and gratitude, riot and extravagance and all that but as I told him these are common faults but he's a scoundrel, said he granting that, said I for the sake of argument, of course a great many young noble men, gentlemen or scoundrels too but he wouldn't be convinced I wonder at that, Mr Quilp said the young man sarcastically well, so did I at the time returned Quilp but he was always obstinate he was in a manner a friend of mine but it was always obstinate and wrong-headed little Nell is a nice girl a charming girl but you're her brother Frederick you're her brother after all as you told him the last time you met he can't alter that he would if he could confound him for that and all other kindnesses said the young man impatiently but nothing can come of this subject now and let us have done with it in the devil's name agreed returned Quilp agreed on my part readily why have I alluded to it just to show you Frederick you're always stood your friend you little knew who was your friend and who your foe now did you you thought I was against you and so there has been a coolness between us but it was all on your side entirely on your side let's shake hands again Fred with his head sung down between his shoulders and a hideous grin overspreading his face the dwarf stood up and stretched his short arm across the table after a moment's hesitation the young man stretched out his to meet it Quilp clutched his fingers in a grip that for the moment stopped the current of the blood within them and pressing his other hand upon his lip and frowning towards the unsuspicious Richard released them and sat down this action was not lost upon Trent who knowing that Richard Swibler was a mere tool in his hands and knew no more of his designs than he thought proper to communicate so that the dwarf perfectly understood their relative position and fully entered into the character of his friend it is something to be appreciated even in navery this silent homage to his superior abilities no less than a sense of the power with which the dwarves quick perception had already invested him inclined the young man towards that ugly worthy and determined him to profit by his aid it being now Mr Quilp's cue to change the subject with all convenient expedition lest Richard Swibler and his heedlessness should reveal anything which it was inexpedient for the women to know he proposed the game at four handed cribbage and partners being cut for Mrs Quilp fell to Frederick Trent and dick himself to Quilp Mrs Ginnewin being very fond of cards was carefully excluded by her son-in-law from any participation in the game and had assigned to her the duty of occasionally replenishing the glasses from the case bottle Mr Quilp from that moment keeping one eye constantly upon her lest she should by any means procure a taste of the same and thereby tantalizing the wretched old lady who was as much attached to the case bottle as the cards in a double degree and most ingenious manner but it was not to Mrs Ginnewin alone that Mr Quilp's attention was restricted as several other matters required his constant vigilance among his various eccentric habits he had a humorous one of always cheating at cards which rendered necessary on his part not only close observance of the game and a slight of hand in counting and scoring but also involved the constant correction by looks and frowns and kicks under the table of Richard Swivola who being bewildered by the rapidity with which his cards were towed and the rate at which the pegs travelled down the board could not be prevented from sometimes expressing his surprise and incredulity Mrs Quilp was the partner of young Trent and for every look that passed between them and every word they spoke and every card they played the dwarf had eyes and ears not occupied alone with what was passing above the table but with signals that might be exchanging beneath it which he laid all kinds of traps to detect besides often treading on his wife's toes to see whether she cried out or remained silent under the infliction in which latter case it would have been quite clear that Trent had been treading on her toes before yet in the most of all these distractions the one eye was upon the old lady always and if she so much as stealthily advanced a teaspoon towards the neighbouring glass which she often did for the purpose of abstracting but one sub of its sweet contents Quilp's hand would over set it in the very moment of her triumph and Quilp's mocking voice implore her to regard her precious health and in any one of these his many cares from first to last Quilp never flagged nor faltered at length when they had played a great many rubbers and drawn pretty freely upon the case bottle Mr Quilp warned his lady to retire to rest and that submissive wife complying and being followed by her indignant mother Mr Swivel Lafella sleep the dwarf beckoning his remaining companion to the other end of the room held a short conference with him in whispers It's as well not to say any more than one can help before our worthy friend said Quilp making a grimace towards the slumbering dick Is it a bargain between us Fred? Shall he marry little Rosinel by and by? You have some end of your own to answer of course returned the other Of course I have dear Fred said Quilp grinning to think how little he suspected what the real end was It's retaliation perhaps perhaps swim I have influence Fred to help or oppose Which way shall I use it? There are a pair of scales and it goes into one Throw it into mine then said Trent It's not Fred rejoined Quilp stretching out his clenched hand and opening it as if he had let some weight fall out It's in the scale from this time and turns it Fred, mind that Where have they gone? Ask Trent Quilp shook his head and said that point remained to be discovered which it might be easily When it was, they would begin their preliminary advances He would visit the old man or even Richard's Fivola might visit him and by affecting a deep concern in his behalf and imploring him to settle in somewhere the home to meet to the child's remembering him with gratitude and favour Once impressed to this extent it would be easy he said to win her in a year or two for she supposed the old man to be poor as it was a part of his jealous policy in common with many other misers to feign to be so to those about him He has feigned it often enough to me of light said Trent Oh and to me too replied the dwarf It's more extraordinary as I know how rich he really is I suppose you should said Trent I think I should indeed rejoined the dwarf and in that at least he spoke the truth After a few more whispered words they returned to the table and the young man rousing Richard's Fivola informed him that he was waiting to depart This was welcome news to Dick who started up directly After a few words of confidence in the result of their project they had been exchanged they bat the grinning quilp good night Quilp crept to the window as they passed in the street below and listened Trent was pronouncing an incombium upon his wife and they were both wondering by what enchantment she had been brought to marry such a misshapen wretch as he The dwarf after watching their retreating shadows with a wider grin than his face had yet displayed stole softly in the dark to bed In this hatching of their scheme neither Trent nor Quilp had had one thought about the happiness or misery of poor in St. Nell It would have been strange if the careless profligate who was the butt of both had been harassed by any such consideration for his high opinion of his own merits and desserts rendered the project rather a laudable one than otherwise and if he had been visited by so unwonted a guest as reflection he would being a brute only in the gratification of his appetites have soothed his conscience with the plea that he did not mean to beat or kill his wife and would therefore after all said and done be a very tolerable average husband