'Who ever saw me with her?
Not even my friends here--' 'Except on one occasion,' said Mr.Tupman.
Mr.Pickwick changed colour.

'Ah,' said Mr.Wardle.

'Well, that's important.

There was nothing suspicious then, I suppose ?' Mr.Tupman glanced timidly at his leader.

'Why,' said he, 'there was nothing suspicious; but--I don't know how it happened, mind--she certainly was reclining in his arms.' 'Gracious powers!' ejaculated Mr.Pickwick, as the recollection of the scene in question struck forcibly upon him; 'what a dreadful instance of the force of circumstances! So she was--so she was.' 'And our friend was soothing her anguish,' said Mr.Winkle, rather maliciously.
'So I was,' said Mr.Pickwick.