 morning. Mr. Dombey, having delivered a glass of wine
to this vassal, addressed her in the following words: Miss Tox previously
settling her head on one side, and making other little arrangements for
engraving them on her heart.
    »During the six months or so, Richards, which have seen you an inmate of
this house, you have done your duty. Desiring to connect some little service to
you with this occasion, I considered how I could best effect that object, and I
also advised with my sister, Mrs. -«
    »Chick,« interposed the gentleman of that name.
    »Oh, hush if you please!« said Miss Tox.
    »I was about to say to you, Richards,« resumed Mr. Dombey, with an appalling
glance at Mr. John, »that I was further assisted in my decision, by the
recollection of a conversation I held with your husband in this room, on the
occasion of your being hired, when he disclosed to me the melancholy fact that
your family, himself at the head, were sunk and steeped in ignorance.«
    Richards quailed under the magnificence of the reproof.
    »I am far from being friendly,« pursued Mr. Dombey, »to what is called by
persons of levelling sentiments, general education. But it is necessary that the
inferior classes should continue to be taught to know their position, and to
conduct themselves properly. So far I approve of schools. Having the power of
nominating a child on the foundation of an ancient establishment, called (from a
worshipful company) the Charitable Grinders; where not only is a wholesome
education bestowed upon the scholars, but where a dress and badge is likewise
provided for them; I have (first communicating, through Mrs. Chick, with your
family) nominated your eldest son to an existing vacancy; and he has this day, I
am informed, assumed the habit. The number of her son, I believe,« said Mr.
Dombey, turning to his sister and speaking of the child as if he were a
hackney-coach, »is one hundred and forty-seven. Louisa, you can tell her.«
    »One hundred and forty-seven,« said Mrs. Chick. »The dress, Richards, is a
nice, warm, blue baize tailed coat and cap, turned up with orange-coloured
binding; red worsted stockings; and very strong leather small-clothes. One might
wear the articles one's-self,« said Mrs. Chick, with enthusiasm, »and be
grateful.«
    »There
