‘Wretch,’ rejoined Nicholas, fiercely, ‘touch him at your peril! I will not stand by, and see it done. My blood is up, and I have the strength of ten such men as you. Look to yourself, for by Heaven I will not spare you, if you drive me on!’

‘Bless us!’ exclaimed Miss La Creevy, starting and putting her hand to her curl–papers. ‘You’re up very early, Mr Nickleby.’