Several acquaintances of Mr Bradley Headstone, being apprised of that gentleman's intention to work his way through the collected novels of Mr Charles Dickens in the order of their original publication, have questioned the wisdom of the enterprise.
His medical man fears that the intensity of the experience may have an adverse effect on Mr Headstone's character, which he has previously identified as being of a peculiarly volatile nature.
His landlady has reminded Mr Headstone that his rent is due on the third of every month and stated quite categorically that no exception can be made to this arrangement. Mr Headstone is not a man of independent means, and he must work for his board and lodging. He has no time to idle on the window sill with a novel in his lap. Furthermore, there is the question of expense. How many tallow candles must be consumed in the execution of the task, and who is to pay for them?
His tailor is concerned that Mr Headstone will rapidly wear out the elbows of his bottle-green jacket, and has advised him to remove it and to roll up his sleeves before commencing on any extended period of perusal.
The proprietor of the local gin shop has expressed the hope that the project will not interfere with any of Mr Headstone's daily customs, and reminds him that there is nothing more fortifying than a glass of Old Tom.
Mr Headstone would like to thank his friends for their expressions of concern and knows that they have his best interests at heart.
