The Pickwick Papers · Chapter
Honourably accounts for Mr. Weller's absence, by describing a soiree to which he was invited and went; also relates how he was entrusted by Mr. Pickwick with a private mission of delicacy and importance. explained
Sam Weller receives an invitation to a 'swarry' (soirée) hosted by the Bath footmen, attends the lively gathering, and returns home.
What happens
Sam Weller receives an invitation to a 'swarry' (soirée) hosted by the Bath footmen, attends the lively gathering, and returns home. The next morning, Mr. Pickwick informs Sam that Mr. Winkle has fled after a confrontation with Mr. Dowler, and entrusts Sam with the mission to find and bring Winkle back, authorizing him to use force if necessary.
Themes in this chapter
Social Class and Manners
The footmen's soiree satirizes the pretensions of social climbing and the mimicry of upper-class customs among servants.
Friendship and Loyalty
Sam's loyalty to Mr. Pickwick is demonstrated as he readily accepts the mission to find Winkle, and Mr. Pickwick trusts Sam implicitly.
Characters to notice
- Sam Weller
Receives an invitation to a footmen's soiree, attends and enjoys the evening, then is tasked by Mr. Pickwick to pursue the fugitive Mr. Winkle.
- Samuel Pickwick
Informs Sam of Mr. Winkle's departure after a quarrel with Dowler, and sends Sam on a mission to bring Winkle back.
- Nathaniel Winkle
Has fled the house early in the morning after an altercation with Mr. Dowler; Mr. Pickwick sends Sam to find him.
- John Smauker
A Bath footman who invites Sam to the soiree and introduces him to the company.
- Dowler
Mentioned as the source of violence that caused Mr. Winkle to flee.
Key passages
“A select company of the Bath footmen presents their compliments to Mr. Weller, and requests the pleasure of his company this evening, to a friendly swarry, consisting of a boiled leg of mutton with the usual trimmings.”
A group of Bath footmen invites Mr. Weller to a friendly evening gathering featuring a boiled leg of mutton and standard accompaniments.
The invitation uses formal language to describe a simple meal, highlighting the footmen's pretensions.
“The instant you discover him, write to me immediately, Sam. If he attempts to run away from you, knock him down, or lock him up. You have my full authority, Sam.”
As soon as you find him, write to me at once. If he tries to escape, you are authorized to use force or detain him.
Mr. Pickwick gives Sam explicit and forceful instructions to ensure Winkle's return.