After some deliberation Mr Tappertit decided that the most fitting form of observance to mark the passing of Mr Headstone was a procession of the 'Prentice Knights and the Glorious Apollos through the streets of London, calling at the numerous inns and taverns that had been uppermost in the pedagogue's affections. In accordance with the rules of the society, the proposal was put to the vote of the assembled company of apprentices, and - in accordance with the normal practices of democracy - division and discord at once held sway. The room was immediately divided into those who commended the proposal for its good sense and those who condemned it - in the words of the most eloquent of those in opposition - as a barbaric act of barbarism.
The Ayes being as vociferous as the Nays, there seemed little hope of resolving the debate by reasoned argument, and, as the trading of insults had as little effect as the pulling of noses, it was not unexpected that the company should come to blows in an attempt to settle their differences. Mr Tappertit, who still occupied his position of superiority atop the table, called for calm and restraint, whereupon he was immediately silenced by the blow of a wooden skittle to his temple. When he regained consciousness, he was informed by a somewhat dishevelled Mr Swiveller that a resolution had been reached, and that, on account of their superior pugilistic skills, the Ayes had it.
Mr Charles Dickens
