". . . If I was very ragged and very jolly, then I should begin to feel that I had gained a point, Mr. Pinch."
"So you were singing just now, to bear up, as it were, against being well dressed, eh, Mark?" said Pinch.
"Your conversation's always equal to print, sir," rejoined Mark, with a broad grin. "That was it."
"Well!" cried Pinch, "you are the strangest young man, Mark, I ever knew in my life. I always thought so; but now I am quite certain of it. I am going to Salisbury, too. Will you get in? I shall be very glad of your company."
The young fellow made his acknowledgements and accepted the offer; stepping into the carriage directly, and seating himself on the very edge of the seat with his body half out of it, to express his being there on sufferance, and by the politeness of Mr. Pinch. As they went along, the conversation proceeded after this manner.
"I more than half believed, just now, seeing you so very smart," said Pinch, "that you must be going to be married, Mark."
"Well, sir, I've thought of that, too," he replied. "There might be some credit in being jolly with a wife, 'specially if the children had the measles and that, and was very fractious indeed. But I'm a'most afraid to try it. I don't see my way clear."

This passage from Martin Chuzzlewit highlights Mark Tapley's unique philosophy on cheerfulness. Mark believes that true merit lies in maintaining a cheerful disposition under adverse conditions. This contrasts with the superficiality of appearing content when circumstances are favorable. His conversation with Tom Pinch reveals a deeper understanding of human resilience. Tom’s assumption that Mark’s smart attire might signify an impending marriage underscores societal expectations linking external appearances with personal joy. Yet, Mark humorously counters this, suggesting that being cheerful amidst family challenges, like sick children, is a more commendable task. Mark's perspective offers a satirical commentary on authenticity, as he aspires to find joy not in ease but in overcoming life's trials. Through these interactions, Dickens subtly critiques societal norms and highlights individual character strength.