I thought there was somebody dead here.' 'You came for some purpose, I suppose,' said Quilp.

'What is it you want ?' 'I want to know how the old gentleman is,' rejoined Mr Swiveller, 'and to hear from Nell herself, with whom I should like to have a little talk.

I'm a friend of the family, sir--at least I'm the friend of one of the family, and that's the same thing.' 'You'd better walk in then,' said the dwarf.

'Go on, sir, go on.

Now, Mrs Quilp--after you, ma'am.' Mrs Quilp hesitated, but Mr Quilp insisted.