The Pickwick Papers

The same morning, Pickwick finds Magnus nervously pacing, fully dressed in his finest attire. Magnus, anxious about his upcoming proposal, has already sent his card to Miss Witherfield (the woman he plans to propose to) and expects to meet her at 11. Pickwick tries to calm him, offering advice on how to structure his proposal, emphasizing the need to compliment her beauty, acknowledge his own unworthiness, and then declare his devotion. As the time grows nearer Magnus becomes increasingly nervous but remains determined. When the clock strikes the appointed time, Magnus rushes out to meet Miss Witherfield.

After some time, the other Pickwickians arrive, just as Magnus bursts back into the room, elated. He excitedly announces that the proposal has been successful, and he insists that Pickwick meet his fiancée. Magnus leads Pickwick to Miss Witherfield’s room, where Pickwick immediately recognizes her as the woman whose room he mistakenly entered the previous night. The sudden recognition causes both Pickwick and Miss Witherfield to react with shock.

Magnus, confused and angry, demands an explanation, suspecting some hidden connection between the two. Pickwick refuses to reveal the truth, insisting he will not say anything that might embarrass the lady. Miss Witherfield confirms that she has seen Pickwick before but won’t reveal where or why. Magnus misinterprets the situation and grows increasingly jealous, accusing Pickwick of being deceitful. Tensions rise, and Magnus storms out, declaring that Pickwick will hear from him later.

Miss Witherfield, terrified of the possible consequences of Magnus’s jealousy, decides to visit the local magistrate, George Nupkins, to ensure the safety of Magnus. She fears a duel might take place and hopes the magistrate can intervene. At the magistrate’s house, Miss Witherfield reports the incident. Nupkins, eager to maintain law and order, immediately orders his clerk, Mr. Jinks, to issue warrants for the arrest of Pickwick and Tupman.

Meanwhile, completely unaware of the brewing storm, Pickwick and his friends enjoy a relaxed dinner at their inn. As Pickwick shares the amusing story of his previous night’s mishap, Grummer, the magistrate’s officer, arrives with a group of constables. Grummer proceeds to arrest both Pickwick and Tupman under suspicion of planning a duel. The constables escort the two to the magistrate’s office, much to the amusement of the town’s spectators.

On the way, Sam spots the procession and tries to intervene, demanding to know why his master is being treated like a common criminal. Grummer’s condescending response provokes Sam, who knocks him down. A brawl ensues between Sam, Winkle, and the constables. Despite their best efforts, the group is overpowered and taken into custody. As the crowd cheers on the chaos, Pickwick indignantly protests his arrest. Upon arrival at the magistrate’s house, Pickwick prepares to defend his actions and prove his innocence, though the situation has already escalated beyond his control.