'They'll turn up presently, I dare say.

I never wait supper for anybody.' 'Excellent rule, that,' said Mr.Pickwick--'admirable.' 'Pray, sit down,' said the host.
'Certainly' said Mr.Pickwick; and down they sat.
There was a gigantic round of cold beef on the table, and Mr.Pickwick was supplied with a plentiful portion of it.

He had raised his fork to his lips, and was on the very point of opening his mouth for the reception of a piece of beef, when the hum of many voices suddenly arose in the kitchen.

He paused, and laid down his fork.

Mr.Wardle paused too, and insensibly released his hold of the carving-knife, which remained inserted in the beef.