"Biddy," said I, after binding her to secrecy, "I want to be a gentleman."

     "O, I wouldn't, if I was you!" she returned. "I don't think it would answer."

     "Biddy," said I, with some severity, "I have particular reasons for wanting to be a gentleman."

     "You know best, Pip; but don't you think you are happier as you are?"

     "Biddy," I exclaimed, impatiently, "I am not at all happy as I am. I am disgusted with my calling and with my life. I have never taken to either, since I was bound. Don't be absurd."

     "Was I absurd?" said Biddy, quietly raising her eyebrows; "I am sorry for that; I didn't mean to be. I only want you to do well, and to be comfortable."

     "Well, then, understand once for all that I never shall or can be comfortable--or anything but miserable--there, Biddy!--unless I can lead a very different sort of life from the life I lead now."

     "That's a pity!" said Biddy, shaking her head with a sorrowful air.