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neighbours, you know, and I see no reason why your good woman and mine should not be better acquainted.

Mr. Fudge. She is standing close by you. Sir.

Free. O, I beg pardon, my dear Madam! I did not know you. (to Mrs. Fudge.)—My dear, this is Mrs. Fudge. (presenting her to Mrs. F.)—But my good Mr. Hassock, why have not you brought your pretty daughter with you?

Mr. Hassock. So I have, your honour; this be she. (pointing to his daughter.)

Free. She must give me her hand: I have a girl of my own too, you see; but she does not hold up her head so well as this young lady.

Ha! welcome, my good friends! welcome, my good neighbour Huskins, and you too my good Mrs. Huskins!Ha, Mr. Grub! you do me honour. How do the soap-works go on? you will soon be the richest man in the country, though you do spare me a morning now and then.

Mr. Grub (conceitedly.) Aye, picking up a little in my poor way, just to keep the pot boiling. (Going up to Mrs. Freeman, and wiping his face.) Madam, I make bold, as the fashion goes on them there occasions. (Gives her a salute with a good loud smack, whilst she shrinks back disconcerted, and Bescatti and the Governess shrug up their shoulders, and Charlotte skulks behind their backs frightened.)

Mr. Fudge (spitting out his chew of tobacco and wiping his mouth.) As the fashion goes round, Madam—