This young gentleman was very much freckled; wore his hair, which was dark and wiry, up at one side, down at the other; had a short thick nose; full lips; and, when close to him, smelt of cigars.

Such was Mr.Plimmins, Mr.Plaskwith's factotum, foreman in the shop, assistant editor to the Mercury.

Mr.Plaskwith formally went the round of the introduction; Mrs.P.nodded her head; the Misses P.nudged each other, and grinned; Mr.Plimmins passed his hand through his hair, glanced at the glass, and bowed very politely.
"Now, Mrs.P., my second cup, and give Mr.Morton his dish of tea.

Must be tired, sir--hot day.

Jemima, ring--no, go to the stairs and call out 'more buttered toast.' That's the shorter way--promptitude is my rule in life, Mr.Morton.