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_From Mr. Pickwick to Mr. Perker_, _Solicitor_, _Gray’s Inn_.
Sainte Pélagie, May 28.
DEAR PERKER,—For heaven’s sake come over here at once, bringing some one
who can speak French, and bail me out, or whatever the process of their
law may be. I have been arrested, illegally and without warrant, at the
house of a scientific friend, Count Fosco, where I had been supping. As
far as I can understand, I am accused of a plot against the life of the
Emperor of the French; but the whole proceedings have been unintelligible
and arbitrary to a degree. I cannot think that an English citizen will
be allowed to perish by the guillotine—innocent and practically unheard!
Please bring linen and brushes, &c., but not Sam, who would be certain to
embroil himself with the French police. I am writing to the _Times_ and
Lord Palmerston.—Sincerely yours,