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My good fellow," retorted Mr. Boffin, "you have my word…

“My good fellow," retorted Mr. Boffin, "you have my word; and how you can have that, without my honour too, I don't know. I've sorted a lot of dust in my time, but I never knew the two things go into separate heaps.” quote by Charles Dickens
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“My good fellow," retorted Mr. Boffin, "you have my word; and how you can have that, without my honour too, I don't know. I've sorted a lot of dust in my time, but I never knew the two things go into separate heaps.”

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A character jokes that he cannot give his word without also giving his honor, highlighting the inseparability of trust and reputation.

In simple terms: Trust and honor are linked.

Key Takeaway

Guard your word and honor together.

Themes

trust honor integrity

Mood

reflective serious

Type

aphilosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • personal relationships
  • legal agreements

Key Concepts

social contract personal reputation

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you keep a promise without risking your reputation?
  • What does honor mean in modern contracts?
A Different Perspective

Without honor, a promise loses value.

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