 as to an old friend, they lie.«
    »Base wretches they must be!« said Mrs. Todgers.
    »Madam,« said Mr. Pecksniff, »you are right. I respect you for that
observation. A word in your ear. To Parents and Guardians. This is in
confidence, Mrs. Todgers?«
    »The strictest, of course!« cried that lady.
    »To Parents and Guardians,« repeated Mr. Pecksniff. »An eligible opportunity
now offers, which unites the advantages of the best practical architectural
education with the comforts of a home, and the constant association with some,
who, however humble their sphere and limited their capacity - observe! - are not
unmindful of their moral responsibilities.«
    Mrs. Todgers looked a little puzzled to know what this might mean, as well
she might; for it was, as the reader may perchance remember, Mr. Pecksniff's
usual form of advertisement when he wanted a pupil; and seemed to have no
particular reference, at present, to anything. But Mr. Pecksniff held up his
finger as a caution to her not to interrupt him.
    »Do you know any parent or guardian, Mrs. Todgers,« said Mr. Pecksniff, »who
desires to avail himself of such an opportunity for a young gentleman? An orphan
would be preferred. Do you know of any orphan with three or four hundred pound?«
    Mrs. Todgers reflected, and shook her head.
    »When you hear of an orphan with three or four hundred pound,« said Mr.
Pecksniff, »let that dear orphan's friends apply, by letter post-paid, to S. P.,
Post-office, Salisbury. I don't know who he is, exactly. Don't be alarmed, Mrs.
Todgers,« said Mr. Pecksniff, falling heavily against her: »Chronic - chronic!
Let's have a little drop of something to drink.«
    »Bless my life, Miss Pecksniffs!« cried Mrs. Todgers, aloud, »your dear pa's
took very poorly!«
    Mr. Pecksniff straightened himself by a surprising effort, as every one
turned hastily towards him; and standing on his feet, regarded the assembly with
a look of ineffable wisdom. Gradually it gave place to a smile; a feeble,
helpless, melancholy smile; bland, almost to sickliness. »Do not repine, my
friends,« said Mr. Pecksniff, tenderly. »Do not weep for me. It is chronic.« And
with these words, after making
