"My dear friend Copperfield," said Mr. Micawber, "accidents will occur in the best-regulated families; and in families not regulated by that pervading influence which sanctifies while it enhances the–a–I would say, in short, by the influence of Woman, in the lofty character of Wife, they may be expected with confidence, and must be borne with philosophy."

In this quote from David Copperfield, Mr. Micawber offers a humorous yet insightful observation about domestic life and its inevitable mishaps. By suggesting that even the most organized households experience unforeseen difficulties, he highlights the unpredictability inherent in day-to-day living. His comment also reflects the Victorian idealization of women as moral and stabilizing forces within the home. Mr. Micawber’s statement is laced with irony; it recognizes the chaos typical of less "regulated" homes while attributing an almost mystical ability to wives to prevent such disorder. This moment encapsulates Micawber's characteristic optimism and his tendency to find silver linings, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a philosophical outlook in the face of life's small tribulations.