‘ I say precisely what you say,’ replied Fogg, with a smile of incredulity.
‘ The writ, Sir, which commences the action,’ continued Dodson, ‘was issued regularly. Mr. Fogg, where is the Praecipe book?’
‘ Here it is,’ said Fogg, handing over a square book, with a parchment cover.
‘ Here is the entry,’ resumed Dodson. ‘“Middlesex, Capias MARTHA BARDELL, WIDOW, v. SAMUEL PICKWICK. Damages £1500. Dodson & Fogg for the plaintiff, Aug. 28, 1827.” All regular, Sir; perfectly.’ Dodson coughed and looked at Fogg, who said ‘Perfectly,’ also. And then they both looked at Mr. Pickwick.
‘ I am to understand, then,’ said Mr. Pickwick, ‘that it really is your intention to proceed with this action?’
‘ Understand, sir!—that you certainly may,’ replied Dodson, with something as near a smile
