Status Updates From Our Mutual Friend

“library of bran-new books, in bran-new bindings liberally gilded, and requested to see the messenger who had brought the paper.” (18) Again the Veneer quality of the hosts—a library for show not to read!

In chapter we meet we meet the Veenerings. Once again Charles Dickens is playing with the names of his characters. This couple have a name that is close to the word veneer which is, of course, either a polish, painting or gilding to add outward attraction.