E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Micawber (Mr. Wilkins).
A great speechifier and letter-writer, projector of bubble schemes sure to lead to fortune, but always ending in grief. Notwithstanding his ill success, he never despaired, but felt certain that something would “turn up” to make his fortune. Having failed in every adventure in the old country, he emigrated to Australia, where he became a magnate. (Dickens: David Copperfield.)
