There being to my knowledge a respectable lodging-house in Essex Street, the back of which looked into the Temple, and was almost within hail of my windows, I first of all repaired to that house, and was so fortunate as to secure the second floor for my uncle, Mr. Provis. I then went from shop to shop, making such purchases as were necessary to the change in his appearance. This business transacted, I turned my face, on my own account, to Little Britain. Mr. Jaggers was at his desk, but, seeing me enter, got up immediately and stood before his fire.

     "Now, Pip," said he, "be careful."

     "I will, sir," I returned. For, coming along I had thought well of what I was going to say.

     "Don't commit yourself," said Mr. Jaggers, "and don't commit any one. You understand--any one. Don't tell me anything: I don't want to know anything; I am not curious."

     Of course I saw that he knew the man was come.

     "I merely want, Mr. Jaggers," said I, "to assure myself that what I have been told is true. I have no hope of its being untrue, but at least I may verify it."