In earlier years, the intelligence services would often recruit agents by tapping them up.

[…] and so conspicuously did the excellence of this man appear, in preacing the gospel with courage and resolution, and in confirming his doctrine by the miracles which he wrought, that […]

The party and the Krikkit warship looked, in their writhings, a little like two ducks […]

So, what between Mr. Dowler's stories, and Mrs. Dowler's charms, and Mr. Pickwick's good humour, and Mr. Winkle's good listening, the insides contrived to be very companionable all the way.