Charles Dickens's novel, The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, tells the story of a man named Arthur Gride who lives in a dusty, old house. He is a miserly and sly character, and he is in the process of making arrangements for his upcoming marriage. He is assisted by his housekeeper, Peg Sliderskew, who is blind and palsy-stricken, making her a somewhat comical and strange figure. In the chapter referenced, we see Arthur Gride sorting through old clothes and singing a silly little song. He talks to himself about the clothes he will wear for his wedding, and he is quite pleased with his plans. He makes some dark comments about his future wife's looks and skills, and his housekeeper, Peg, gives him some advice. Peg is not particularly respectful to Arthur, and they engage in a rather odd and comically tense conversation. Eventually, a man named Newman Noggs arrives with a letter from someone named Ralph. Arthur Gride eagerly reads the letter and becomes excited about the news he receives. As Newman prepares to leave, Arthur offers him a drink, and Newman accepts. Newman then reveals that he had an encounter with a man named Brooker, who had been asking to speak with Ralph. Ralph, on the other hand, is suspicious of Brooker and warns Newman not to engage with him, threatening to involve the police if Brooker continues to harass him. The chapter leaves us with a sense of tension and mystery, as well as an understanding of the strange and quirky characters that inhabit the world of Nicholas Nickleby.
