e front, in a state of profound silence, which Tom at
last broke; after thinking for a long time what he could say that should
refer to an indifferent topic, in respect of which he might rely, with
some degree of certainty, on Mr Moddle's bosom being unruffled.

'I wonder,' said Tom, 'that in these crowded streets the foot-passengers
are not oftener run over.'

Mr Moddle, with a dark look, replied:

'The drivers won't do it.'

'Do you mean?' Tom began--

'That there are some men,' interrupted Moddle, with a hollow laugh, 'who
can't get run over. They live a charmed life. Coal waggons recoil from
them, and even cabs refuse to run them down. Ah!' said Augustus, marking
Tom's astonishment. 'There are such men. One of 'em is a friend of
mine.'

'Upon my word and honour,' thought Tom, 'this young gentleman is in
a state of mind which is very serious indeed!' Abandoning all idea of
conversation, he did not venture to say another word, but he was careful
to keep a tight hold upon Augustus's arm, lest he should fly into the
road, and making another and a more successful attempt, should get up a
private little Juggernaut before the eyes of his betrothed. Tom was
so afraid of his committing this rash act, that he had scarcely ever
experienced such mental relief as when they arrived in safety at Mrs
Jonas Chuzzlewit's house.

'Walk up, pray, Mr Pinch,' said Miss Pecksniff. For Tom halted,
irresolutely, at the door.

'I am doubtful whether I should be welcome,' replied Tom, 'or, I ought
rather to say, I have no doubt about it. I will send up a message, I
think.'

'But what nonsense that is!' returned Miss Pecksniff, speaking apart
to Tom. 'He is not at home, I am certain. I know he is not; and Merry
hasn't the least idea that you ever--'

'No,' interrupted Tom. 'Nor would I have her know it, on any account. I
am not so proud of that scuffle, I assure you.'

'Ah, but then you are so modest, you see,' returned Miss Pecksniff, with
a smile. 'But pray walk up. If you don't wish her to know it, and do
wish to speak to her, pray walk up. Pray walk up, Miss Pinch. Don't
stand here.'

Tom still hesitated for he felt that he was in an awkward position. But
Cherry passing him at this juncture, and leading his sister upstairs,
and the house-door being at the same time shut behind them, he followed
without quite knowing whether it was well or ill-judged so to do.

'Merry, my darling!' said the fair Miss Pecksniff, opening the