'Solomon Lucas, the Jew in the High Street, has thousands of fancy-dresses.

Consider, Sir, how many appropriate characters are open for your selection.

Plato, Zeno, Epicurus, Pythagoras--all founders of clubs.' 'I know that,' said Mr.Pickwick; 'but as I cannot put myself in competition with those great men, I cannot presume to wear their dresses.' The grave man considered deeply, for a few seconds, and then said-- 'On reflection, Sir, I don't know whether it would not afford Mrs.Leo Hunter greater pleasure, if her guests saw a gentleman of your celebrity in his own costume, rather than in an assumed one.

I may venture to promise an exception in your case, sir--yes, I am quite certain that, on behalf of Mrs.Leo Hunter, I may venture to do so.' 'In that case,' said Mr.Pickwick, 'I shall have great pleasure in coming.' 'But I waste your time, Sir,' said the grave man, as if suddenly recollecting himself.

'I know its value, sir.