_Heep_.--You will excuse me, Mrs. Micawber, but I should like to
speak a few words to your husband in private.

_Mrs. Mic_.--Certainly! Wilkins, my love, go on and prosper!

_Mic_.--My dear, I shall endeavor to do so to an unlimited extent!
Ah, the sun has again risen--the clouds have passed--the sky is clear, and
another score may be begun at the butcher's.--Heep, precede me. Emma, my
love. _Au Revoir_.

(_A gallant bow to Mrs. Micawber_.)

* * * * *



A SCENE FROM DAVID COPPERFIELD.

CHARACTERS.

OLD FISHERMAN PEGGOTTY,

HAM PEGGOTTY,

DAVID COPPERFIELD.

_Introduction_.--The scene is the interior of the "Old Ark"; the time
is evening. The rain is falling outside, yet inside the old ark all is
snug and comfortable. The fire is burning brightly on the hearth, and
Mother Gummidge sits by it knitting. Ham has gone out to fetch little