(Exit Sir John and Justice Shallow.)

Bullcalf.—­(Approaching Bardolph.) Good Master Corporate Bardolph, stand my friend; and here’s four Harry ten shillings in French crowns for you.  In very truth, sir, I’d as lief be hanged, sir, as to go; and yet for mine own part, sir, I do not care; but rather because I am unwilling, and, for mine own part, have a desire to stay with my friends; else, sir, I did not care, for my own part, so much.

Bardolph.—­(Pocketing the money.) Go to; stand aside.

Feeble.—­By my troth, I care not.

WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE.

* * * * *

A SCENE FROM DAVID COPPERFIELD.

AT THE LODGINGS OF MR. AND MRS. MICAWBER.

Introduction.—­The scene opens in the lodgings of Mr. and Mrs. Micawber.  Mr. Micawber at this time is suffering under, what he terms, “A temporary pressure of pecuniary liabilities,” and is out looking for something to turn up.

Mrs. Micawber is at home attending to the twins, one of which she is holding in her arms, the other is in the cradle near by, and various of the children are scattered about the floor.

Mrs. Micawber has been bothered all the morning by the calling of creditors;—­at last she exclaims, as she trots the babe in her arms:—­

(Mrs. Micawber.) Well, I wonder how many more times they will be calling!  However, it’s their fault.  If Mr. Micawber’s creditors won’t give him time, they must take the consequences.  Oh! there is some one knocking now!  I believe that’s Mr. Heep’s knock.  It is Mr. Heep!  Come in, Mr. Heep.  We are very glad to see you.  Come right in.

Heep.—­Is Mr. Micawber in?

Mrs. Mic.—­No, Mr. Heep.  Mr. Micawber has gone out.  We make no stranger of you, Mr. Heep, so I don’t mind telling you Mr. Micawber’s affairs have reached a crisis.  With the exception of a heel of Dutch cheese, which is not adapted to the wants of a young family,—­and including the twins,—­there is nothing to eat in the house.

Heep.—­How dreadful! (Aside.) The very man for my purpose. (Explanation.  At this moment there is a noise heard on the landing.  Micawber himself rushes into the room, slamming the door behind him.)

Micawber.—­(Not seeing Heep.) The clouds have gathered, the storm has broken, and the thunderbolt has fallen on the devoted head of Wilkins Micawber!  Emma, my dear, the die is cast.  All is over.  Leave me in my misery!

Mrs. Mic.—­I’ll never desert my Micawber!