 ocean and dry land on which there
was nothing (except mischief) to be done, and anything to be pocketed, it was
perfectly feasible to assemble a good many Barnacles. This Mrs. Gowan applied
herself to do; calling on Mr. Meagles frequently, with new additions to the
list, and holding conferences with that gentleman when he was not engaged (as he
generally was at this period) in examining and paying the debts of his future
son-in-law, in the apartment of the scales and scoop.
    One marriage guest there was, in reference to whose presence Mr. Meagles
felt a nearer interest and concern than in the attendance of the most elevated
Barnacle expected; though he was far from insensible of the honour of having
such company. This guest was Clennam. But, Clennam had made a promise he held
sacred, among the trees that summer night, and, in the chivalry of his heart,
regarded it as binding him to many implied obligations. In forgetfulness of
himself, and delicate service to her on all occasions, he was never to fail; to
begin it, he answered Mr. Meagles cheerfully, »I shall come, of course.«
    His partner, Daniel Doyce, was something of a stumbling-block in Mr.
Meagles's way, the worthy gentleman being not at all clear in his own anxious
mind but that the mingling of Daniel with official Barnacleism might produce
some explosive combination, even at a marriage breakfast. The national offender,
however, lightened him of his uneasiness by coming down to Twickenham to
represent that he begged, with the freedom of an old friend, and as a favour to
one, that he might not be invited. »For,« said he, »as my business with this set
of gentlemen was to do a public duty and a public service, and as their business
with me was to prevent it by wearing my soul out, I think we had better not eat
and drink together with a show of being of one mind.« Mr. Meagles was much
amused by his friend's oddity; and patronised him with a more protecting air of
allowance than usual, when he rejoined: »Well, well, Dan, you shall have your
own crotchety way.«
    To Mr. Henry Gowan, as the time approached, Clennam tried to convey by all
quiet and unpretending means, that he was frankly and disinterestedly desirous
of tendering him any friendship he would accept. Mr. Gowan treated him in return
with his usual ease, and with his usual show of confidence, which was no
confidence at all
