E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Pumblechook (Uncle).
He bullied Pip when only a poor boy, but when the boy became wealthy was his lick-spittle, fawning on him most servilely with his “May I, Mr. Pip” [have the honour of shaking hands with you]; “Might I, Mr. Pip” [take the liberty of saluting you]. (Dickens Great Expectations.)
