Charles Dickens ' novel, 'The Chimes' (1844). First Quarter. Portrait of Trotty Veck.. English novelist. 'There's nothing', said Toby, 'more regular in its coming round than dinner-time, and nothing less regular in its coming round than dinner. That's the great difference between 'em.' 7 February 1812 - 9 June 1870. Trotty. Toby Veck. Toby 'Trotty' Veck.. Stunning Photo Gifts From Lebrecht Music & Arts