[…] and so conspicuously did the excellence of this man appear, in preacing the gospel with courage and resolution, and in confirming his doctrine by the miracles which he wrought, that […]

In earlier years, the intelligence services would often recruit agents by tapping them up.

So, what between Mr. Dowler's stories, and Mrs. Dowler's charms, and Mr. Pickwick's good humour, and Mr. Winkle's good listening, the insides contrived to be very companionable all the way.

The party and the Krikkit warship looked, in their writhings, a little like two ducks […]