In Which The Members Of The Society Are Thrown Into A Quandary

As Mr Snodgrass had anticipated, the letter of invitation composed by Mr Headstone was met with a rapturous reception when it was read out by its author at the next meeting of the society. Having attained universal approbation for his work, the pedagogue had now only to append an address to the envelope to complete his task, but – as on so many other occasions - he seemed destined to be thwarted at the last. In short, no member of those gathered in the upper room at The George and Vulture could come to any agreement as to where the letter should be sent. Mr Snodgrass was of the firm opinion that Mr Dickens resided in Doughty Street. Mr Toots and the Game Chicken disputed this claim and were of the view that the celebrated author’s domicile was in Devonshire Terrace. Indeed, so convinced of this fact was the Chicken that he at once proposed going five rounds with Mr Snodgrass to settle the dispute, an invitation which the latter gentleman declined by taking refuge behind a chair. A debate on the question was tabled, and, the motion being carried, a lively discussion ensued; which was further enlivened by the introduction of several more suggested destinations – both at home and abroad – from the floor. When the matter was put to the vote, the house remained divided, and so it was proposed that invitations be sent to each and every address in the hope that one would find itself into the hands of the intended recipient. Having received assurances from Mr Micawber that the society’s pecuniary resources could meet the expense of the Penny Post, Mr Headstone approved the proposal, and the society moved on to other business of the day.