It was surprising how much new conversation the Major had to let off at dinner-time, and what occasion
he gave Mr. Dombey to admire his social qualities. At breakfast next morning, he knew the contents
of the latest newspapers received; and mentioned several subjects in connexion with them, on which
his opinion had recently been sought by persons of such power and might, that they were only to be
obscurely hinted at. Mr. Dombey, who had been so long shut up within himself, and who had rarely,
at any time, overstepped the enchanted circle within which the operations of Dombey and Son were
conducted, began to think this an improvement on his solitary life; and in place of excusing himself for
another day, as he had thought of doing when alone, walked out with the Major arm-in-arm.